The Canterbury Tales

Definition

The Canterbury Tales is a collection of stories written by Geoffrey Chaucer in the late 14th century, presenting a vivid snapshot of medieval society through the lens of a pilgrimage to Canterbury. The tales are narrated by a diverse group of characters, including knights, merchants, and peasants, reflecting the various layers of noble culture and courtly life during this period. Through humor and social commentary, Chaucer examines themes of love, morality, and the complexities of human behavior.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Canterbury Tales consists of 24 stories told by 29 characters who meet at the Tabard Inn in Southwark before embarking on a pilgrimage to the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket.
2. Chaucer wrote the tales in Middle English, making them one of the first major works of literature in that language and contributing to its development.
3. Each character represents different social classes and occupations, allowing Chaucer to comment on the values and behaviors of his time.
4. The tales vary in genre, including romance, fabliaux (comic tales), and religious allegories, showcasing Chaucer's literary versatility.
5. The work is notable for its use of iambic pentameter and rhyme royal, which helped establish these forms in English poetry.

Review Questions

• How does Chaucer's use of diverse characters in The Canterbury Tales reflect the social hierarchy and culture of medieval society?
  • Chaucer's characters in The Canterbury Tales come from various social backgrounds, including nobility, clergy, and commoners. This diversity allows him to explore the social hierarchy and cultural norms of medieval society. By showcasing their unique perspectives and interactions during the pilgrimage, Chaucer critiques societal values while highlighting themes of morality and human behavior across different classes.
• In what ways does The Canterbury Tales employ the frame narrative structure to enhance its storytelling?
  • The frame narrative structure of The Canterbury Tales allows Chaucer to weave multiple stories together through the common theme of a pilgrimage. This setup creates a dynamic interaction among characters as they share their tales. Each story not only entertains but also provides insights into the individual character's personality and societal role, enriching the overall narrative with layers of meaning and social commentary.
• Evaluate the significance of chivalry as depicted in The Canterbury Tales and its impact on noble culture during the Middle Ages.
  • Chivalry plays a crucial role in The Canterbury Tales, particularly through characters like the Knight who embodies the ideals of bravery and honor. Chaucer uses these portrayals to reflect on noble culture during the Middle Ages, examining how chivalric values influenced relationships, morality, and social expectations. By contrasting noble ideals with the realities faced by various characters, Chaucer critiques both the adherence to and deviations from these values within courtly life.

Related terms

Pilgrimage: A journey to a sacred place as an act of religious devotion, often undertaken for spiritual benefits or penance.

Frame Narrative: A literary technique where a main story serves as a framework for telling other stories, creating a layered storytelling experience.

Chivalry:

A code of conduct associated with medieval knighthood that emphasized virtues such as bravery, honor, and respect for women.