Father of english literature

Definition

The term 'father of English literature' is commonly attributed to Geoffrey Chaucer, an influential poet from the 14th century whose works laid the foundation for the development of English as a literary language. Chaucer's use of the vernacular in his writings helped elevate English in a time when Latin and French dominated scholarly and literary discourse, making literature more accessible to the general public. His most famous work, 'The Canterbury Tales,' is a significant contribution that reflects the diverse social fabric of medieval England and showcases a range of characters and narratives.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chaucer was born around 1343 and became known for his ability to blend humor and social commentary in his works.
2. His use of iambic pentameter and rhyme royal set a standard for English poetry that influenced generations of poets.
3. Chaucer held various government positions, including serving as a customs officer and diplomat, which exposed him to different social classes and cultures.
4. 'The Canterbury Tales' was written in Middle English, making it one of the earliest works in this form that has survived over time.
5. Chaucer's influence extended beyond his lifetime, inspiring writers such as Shakespeare and laying the groundwork for the English literary tradition.

Review Questions

• How did Chaucer's use of vernacular language influence the development of English literature?
  • Chaucer's decision to write in the vernacular made literature more accessible to a broader audience at a time when Latin and French were dominant in scholarly circles. By utilizing English, he not only legitimized it as a literary language but also encouraged other writers to follow suit. This shift allowed for the flourishing of English literature and established a unique cultural identity that resonated with the common people.
• Analyze the significance of 'The Canterbury Tales' in Chaucer's contributions to literature.
  • 'The Canterbury Tales' is significant because it serves as a mirror to medieval society, capturing a wide array of characters from different social classes. Through their stories, Chaucer explores themes like morality, love, and social criticism. This work not only highlights his narrative skill but also reflects the complexities of human behavior and societal norms, thus solidifying his role as the father of English literature.
• Evaluate how Chaucer's background and experiences shaped his literary works.
  • Chaucer's diverse background as a public servant, diplomat, and member of various social classes provided him with unique insights into the lives of different people in medieval England. His exposure to courtly life, common folk, and various cultures informed the characters and themes in his writings. This blend of experience allowed him to create multifaceted narratives that resonate with both personal and societal issues, ultimately enriching English literature.

Related terms

Canterbury Tales: A collection of stories written by Geoffrey Chaucer, presented as a storytelling contest among a group of pilgrims traveling to Canterbury Cathedral.

Vernacular Literature: Literature written in the everyday language spoken by the people, as opposed to Latin or other scholarly languages, which Chaucer popularized.

Chivalric Romance: A literary genre popular in medieval Europe, focusing on tales of chivalry, adventure, and courtly love, which influenced Chaucer's narrative style.