Nature

Definition

Nature refers to the intrinsic qualities and characteristics of beings and the natural world, encompassing themes of instinct, behavior, and the moral implications of humanity's relationship with the environment. It often explores the contrast between the natural order and human intervention, particularly in the context of love, desire, and societal roles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In 'The Parliament of Fowls', nature is depicted as an essential force influencing the behaviors and decisions of the birds, reflecting broader themes of love and choice.
2. Chaucer uses nature to highlight conflicts between natural instincts and societal expectations, particularly in matters of love and marriage.
3. The concept of nature in Chaucer's short poetry often intertwines with themes of morality, suggesting that human actions should align with natural law.
4. Nature plays a crucial role in establishing allegorical meanings within Chaucer's works, allowing readers to connect personal experiences to universal truths.
5. Throughout his poetry, Chaucer emphasizes the complexity of human nature, illustrating how it can lead to both noble actions and moral failings.

Review Questions

• How does Chaucer portray the theme of nature in relation to love in 'The Parliament of Fowls'?
  • In 'The Parliament of Fowls', Chaucer portrays nature as a driving force behind the birds' romantic choices and behaviors. The gathering of birds reflects their instinctual desires for love, while also revealing the conflict between natural impulses and societal norms. This interaction underscores how nature influences not just individual relationships but also broader themes of choice and harmony in love.
• Discuss the role of nature in shaping characters' moral decisions in Chaucer's short poetry.
  • In Chaucer's short poetry, nature often serves as a backdrop against which characters confront moral dilemmas. The tension between natural desires and ethical choices highlights how characters grapple with their instincts versus societal expectations. This dynamic reveals deeper insights into human nature, showing that while individuals may act according to their innate instincts, they are also bound by moral considerations that complicate their choices.
• Evaluate how Chaucer's exploration of nature reflects broader philosophical ideas about humanity's place within the universe.
  • Chaucer's exploration of nature reflects significant philosophical ideas regarding humanity's connection to the natural world and its moral responsibilities. By juxtaposing human behavior with natural law, he prompts readers to consider the implications of their actions within a larger cosmic framework. This examination suggests that while individuals may be driven by their desires and instincts, they are also part of a greater system where their choices impact both themselves and the world around them.

Related terms

Allegory:

A literary device where characters or events symbolize larger concepts and ideas, often used to convey moral or philosophical messages.

Humanism: An intellectual movement that emphasizes human values and agency, often focusing on the importance of individual experience and reason in understanding life.

Courtly Love: A medieval European literary concept that idealizes love, often characterized by noble admiration, chivalry, and the notion of love as a force that transcends physical desire.