Geoffrey Chaucer

Definition

Geoffrey Chaucer was a 14th-century English poet and author, best known for his work 'The Canterbury Tales,' which is considered one of the greatest achievements in English literature. His writings were pivotal in the historical development of English grammar as he employed the vernacular, making literature accessible to a wider audience and contributing to the evolution of Middle English.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chaucer is often referred to as the 'Father of English Literature' for his significant role in establishing the legitimacy of English as a literary language.
2. His use of iambic pentameter and rhyme royal helped shape the poetic forms that would later dominate English poetry.
3. Chaucer's works reflect a deep understanding of human nature, highlighting the complexities of society through humor, irony, and social commentary.
4. He was one of the first authors to write in English rather than French or Latin, which was revolutionary at a time when literature was dominated by those languages.
5. Chaucer's influence extended beyond his lifetime, impacting subsequent writers and contributing to the standardization of English grammar and usage.

Review Questions

• How did Chaucer's choice to write in English rather than French or Latin impact the accessibility of literature during his time?
  • Chaucer's decision to write in English opened up literature to a broader audience, allowing common people who were not fluent in French or Latin to engage with literary works. This choice not only elevated the status of English as a legitimate literary language but also encouraged other writers to follow suit. By making literature accessible, Chaucer played a crucial role in democratizing knowledge and culture during a time when most written works were exclusive to the educated elite.
• Analyze how 'The Canterbury Tales' reflects the social structure and cultural values of medieval England.
  • In 'The Canterbury Tales,' Chaucer presents a diverse array of characters from different social backgrounds, each sharing their own stories while journeying together. This narrative technique reveals insights into medieval society, highlighting class distinctions, religious beliefs, and moral values. The tales often employ satire and humor to critique societal norms and expose human vices, ultimately illustrating the complexities and contradictions present in 14th-century England.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of Chaucer's contributions on the development of the English language and literature.
  • Chaucer's contributions significantly influenced the evolution of the English language and literature, paving the way for future writers like Shakespeare and Milton. His use of vernacular English and innovative poetic forms helped shape literary standards and fostered a greater appreciation for writing in English. Additionally, Chaucer's ability to capture human experiences through relatable characters and narratives laid the groundwork for modern storytelling techniques, ensuring that his impact would resonate through centuries of literary tradition.

Related terms

Middle English: The form of English spoken and written during the 12th to 15th centuries, characterized by a mix of Norman French vocabulary and Old English grammar.

The Canterbury Tales: A collection of stories told by a group of pilgrims traveling to Canterbury Cathedral, showcasing a range of characters from different social classes and providing insight into medieval society.

Vernacular Literature: Literature written in the everyday language spoken by the common people, as opposed to Latin or other scholarly languages, which helped democratize knowledge and culture.