The Canterbury Tales

Definition

The Canterbury Tales is a collection of stories written by Geoffrey Chaucer in the late 14th century, narrated by a group of pilgrims traveling to the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket in Canterbury. This work is significant as it provides a vivid portrayal of medieval society, reflecting the language, culture, and social dynamics of the time, while also influencing the development of English literature and grammar.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'The Canterbury Tales' was written in Middle English, making it one of the first major literary works to use this evolving form of the language instead of Latin or French.
2. Chaucer presents a diverse cast of characters in his tales, representing various social classes and occupations, which highlights the complexities of medieval society.
3. The tales are structured as a storytelling contest among pilgrims, showcasing different narrative styles and themes, from chivalry to morality.
4. 'The Canterbury Tales' includes numerous genres, such as romance, fabliau, and allegory, demonstrating Chaucer's versatility as a writer.
5. Chaucer's use of iambic pentameter and rhymed verse in 'The Canterbury Tales' significantly influenced the rhythm and structure of later English poetry.

Review Questions

• How does 'The Canterbury Tales' reflect the social structure and class dynamics of medieval England?
  • 'The Canterbury Tales' offers a detailed insight into medieval society by featuring characters from various social strata, including nobles, clergy, and commoners. Through their stories and interactions, Chaucer critiques societal norms and presents a nuanced view of class relations. This portrayal serves to highlight the disparities between different classes while also emphasizing shared human experiences across social boundaries.
• Discuss how Chaucer's choice to write 'The Canterbury Tales' in Middle English contributed to its historical significance.
  • 'The Canterbury Tales' being written in Middle English was groundbreaking as it marked a departure from Latin and French literary traditions prevalent at the time. By using a vernacular language that was accessible to a broader audience, Chaucer helped elevate English as a legitimate medium for literature. This choice not only made his work more relatable to everyday readers but also played a crucial role in the development of English grammar and style that would influence future generations of writers.
• Evaluate the impact of 'The Canterbury Tales' on the evolution of English literature and grammar through its narrative techniques and themes.
  • 'The Canterbury Tales' significantly impacted English literature by introducing varied narrative techniques such as framing devices and character-driven stories. The themes explored in these tales—ranging from love to morality—set a precedent for later literary works. Furthermore, Chaucer's innovative use of rhythm and structure not only shaped contemporary poetry but also laid foundational elements that would define English literary style in subsequent centuries, ultimately influencing the evolution of both grammar and usage in the English language.

Related terms

Geoffrey Chaucer:

An English poet and author, often referred to as the Father of English literature, known for his influential work 'The Canterbury Tales'.

Pilgrimage: A journey to a sacred place for religious purposes, which serves as the frame narrative for the tales in Chaucer's work.

Middle English:

The form of English spoken and written during the medieval period, which is used in 'The Canterbury Tales' and marks a significant evolution in the language.