Piers Plowman

Definition

Piers Plowman is an allegorical narrative poem written by William Langland in the late 14th century. The poem features a dream vision structure and explores themes of social justice, morality, and the quest for true Christian faith through the character of Piers, a humble plowman representing the ideal Christian worker. This work plays a crucial role in medieval literature, reflecting the values and concerns of the time while also influencing later literary forms, including romances and chivalric tales.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Piers Plowman was originally composed in Middle English and is considered one of the most important works of Middle English literature.
2. The poem is divided into sections called 'passus', which each address different moral and social issues of the time.
3. Piers, as a character, embodies the virtues of hard work, humility, and devotion to God, serving as a counterpoint to the corruption seen in other societal figures.
4. Langland's work reflects the growing concerns over social inequality during the late medieval period, questioning the roles of the church and nobility.
5. Piers Plowman influenced later literary works by merging allegorical elements with the developing tradition of chivalric romance, impacting how these themes were portrayed in subsequent literature.

Review Questions

• How does Langland use allegory in Piers Plowman to communicate social issues of his time?
  • Langland employs allegory in Piers Plowman by using characters like Piers to represent broader societal concepts such as justice, faith, and labor. Through Piers' journey and interactions with figures that symbolize various vices and virtues, Langland critiques the social order of his day. This method not only highlights the struggles faced by ordinary people but also calls for a moral awakening among the ruling classes and religious authorities.
• Discuss the significance of the dream vision format in Piers Plowman and its impact on medieval literature.
  • The dream vision format in Piers Plowman allows Langland to explore complex themes through symbolic narratives. This technique engages readers in a reflective journey that connects personal morality with social issues. The popularity of this format influenced subsequent works, establishing a model for later writers who sought to blend narrative storytelling with deeper philosophical and moral questions, particularly within romances and chivalric tales.
• Evaluate the ways in which Piers Plowman critiques both religious institutions and chivalric ideals prevalent during its time.
  • Piers Plowman critically examines religious institutions by portraying corrupt clergy who fail to embody true Christian values, contrasting them with Piers' humble integrity. This critique extends to chivalric ideals as well; while traditional romances glorify knightly virtue and honor, Langland emphasizes that true nobility lies in service to others and genuine faith. By juxtaposing these values against the backdrop of societal inequities, Langland advocates for a redefined understanding of both faith and chivalry that prioritizes ethical living over social status.

Related terms

Allegory:

A literary device where characters or events represent abstract ideas or moral qualities, often conveying deeper meanings about society or human nature.

Dream Vision: A popular literary form in medieval literature where the narrator experiences a dream that reveals truths about life, morality, or society.

Social Commentary: The use of literature to critique societal norms and issues, often highlighting injustices and calling for reform.