Geoffrey Chaucer

Definition

Geoffrey Chaucer was a pivotal English poet of the Middle Ages, best known for his work 'The Canterbury Tales.' His writings are significant for their use of the heroic couplet, a poetic form consisting of pairs of rhymed lines in iambic pentameter, which would later influence many English poets. Chaucer's innovative blending of vernacular language and narrative techniques marks him as one of the earliest and most important figures in English literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chaucer is often referred to as the 'Father of English Literature' due to his contributions to the development of English poetry.
2. He was one of the first major poets to write in English rather than Latin or French, making literature more accessible to the common people.
3. Chaucer's use of the heroic couplet established a form that became popular among later poets, including Shakespeare and Milton.
4. His characterizations in 'The Canterbury Tales' provide valuable insights into 14th-century society, highlighting various social classes and professions.
5. Chaucer's works were not just poetic but also reflected a keen sense of observation about human nature and societal norms, making them relevant even today.

Review Questions

• How did Chaucer's use of the heroic couplet influence subsequent English poetry?
  • Chaucer's use of the heroic couplet was groundbreaking as it allowed for greater flexibility and expression in English verse. This form consists of two rhymed lines written in iambic pentameter, which provided a rhythmic structure that was both appealing and memorable. His innovative style laid the groundwork for later poets, such as Shakespeare and Milton, who adopted and adapted this form, helping to shape the evolution of English poetry.
• Discuss the significance of 'The Canterbury Tales' in understanding medieval society through Chaucer's use of diverse characters.
  • 'The Canterbury Tales' serves as a rich tapestry depicting various facets of medieval society through its array of characters from different social classes. Chaucer skillfully uses each pilgrim's story to explore themes such as class, gender, morality, and human nature. This collection not only entertains but also critiques societal norms and values of the 14th century, providing readers with a comprehensive view of life during Chaucer's time.
• Evaluate how Chaucer's choice to write in Middle English rather than Latin or French reflects cultural shifts in 14th-century England.
  • Chaucer's decision to write in Middle English was revolutionary and indicative of broader cultural shifts occurring in 14th-century England. At that time, Latin and French were dominant languages among the educated elite. By choosing Middle English, Chaucer democratized literature and made it accessible to a wider audience. This move not only signaled a growing national identity but also laid the foundation for the eventual establishment of English as a legitimate literary language, reflecting changing attitudes towards language, culture, and class during this period.

Related terms

The Canterbury Tales: A collection of stories written by Chaucer, presented as tales told by a group of pilgrims traveling to Canterbury, showcasing a variety of characters and social classes.

Iambic Pentameter: A metrical line in poetry consisting of five pairs of alternating unstressed and stressed syllables, commonly used by Chaucer in his heroic couplets.

Middle English: The form of English spoken and written during Chaucer's time, characterized by a significant influence from Norman French and Latin.