The Canterbury Tales

Definition

The Canterbury Tales is a collection of 24 stories written by Geoffrey Chaucer in the late 14th century, showcasing a diverse group of characters who embark on a pilgrimage to Canterbury. This work reflects the social dynamics, cultural values, and literary styles of medieval society, making it a cornerstone of medieval literature and an essential commentary on the human condition during that time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Geoffrey Chaucer is often referred to as the 'Father of English Literature' for his significant contributions to the development of English as a literary language.
2. The tales are told by a variety of characters, including a knight, a miller, a prioress, and others, each representing different aspects of medieval society.
3. The work is notable for its use of vernacular English, making literature more accessible to the general public at a time when Latin and French were dominant in literary contexts.
4. The Canterbury Tales explores various themes, such as social class, morality, religion, and gender roles, providing insight into the complexities of life in medieval England.
5. Though incomplete, The Canterbury Tales remains one of the most important works in English literature and has influenced countless writers and poets throughout history.

Review Questions

• How does Chaucer use the frame narrative structure in The Canterbury Tales to enhance storytelling?
  • Chaucer employs the frame narrative structure by setting up a pilgrimage where each character shares their story along the journey to Canterbury. This approach not only allows for a rich diversity of voices and perspectives but also creates a dynamic interaction among the characters. By linking their tales through the shared experience of pilgrimage, Chaucer showcases different social classes and moral dilemmas faced by individuals during medieval times.
• What social commentary does The Canterbury Tales provide regarding medieval society and its values?
  • The Canterbury Tales serves as a mirror reflecting the complexities of medieval society. Through its diverse characters—from noble knights to deceitful merchants—Chaucer critiques various aspects such as social hierarchy, corruption within the Church, and the varying standards of morality. Each tale reveals insights into personal ambitions, societal expectations, and moral dilemmas faced by individuals, thus sparking discussions about ethics and societal norms during that period.
• Evaluate the impact of The Canterbury Tales on the development of English literature and language.
  • The Canterbury Tales significantly impacted English literature by popularizing vernacular English at a time when most literary works were written in Latin or French. Chaucer's decision to write in English not only made his work accessible to a broader audience but also helped establish English as a legitimate literary language. This choice influenced future writers, encouraging them to use English for storytelling and poetry. Additionally, Chaucer's innovative use of character voices and narrative techniques set new standards for storytelling that would shape literature for centuries to come.

Related terms

Frame Narrative: A storytelling technique where a main narrative provides a context for the telling of multiple stories within it, as seen in The Canterbury Tales.

Chivalric Romance: A genre of literature popular in the Middle Ages that focuses on the adventures of knights and their romantic exploits, often featuring themes of honor and courtly love.

Allegory: A literary device where characters and events symbolize broader concepts and moral lessons, frequently used in The Canterbury Tales to convey social criticism and moral teachings.