The Canterbury Tales, and Other Poems

· Otbebookpublishing
Ebook
717
Pages
Eligible
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About this ebook

The Canterbury Tales is a collection of 24 stories written in Middle English by Geoffrey Chaucer between 1387 and 1400. In 1386, Chaucer became Controller of Customs and Justice of Peace and, in 1389, Clerk of the King's work. It was during these years that Chaucer began working on his most famous text, The Canterbury Tales. The tales (mostly written in verse, although some are in prose) are presented as part of a story-telling contest by a group of pilgrims as they travel together from London to Canterbury to visit the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket at Canterbury Cathedral. The prize for this contest is a free meal at the Tabard Inn at Southwark on their return. (Wikipedia)

About the author

Geoffrey Chaucer (c. 1343-1400), often hailed as the "Father of English literature," was a pivotal figure in the transition from medieval to Renaissance thought. Born into a prosperous London family, Chaucer's life was a tapestry of diverse experiences: he served as a courtier, diplomat, and civil servant under three kings, which afforded him a unique vantage point on the social and political dynamics of his time.Chaucer's literary contributions are revolutionary, particularly his use of the English vernacular at a time when Latin and French dominated literary and scholarly works. His keen observational skills and wit are evident in his vivid character portrayals and his nuanced exploration of human nature and societal norms. Chaucer's works often reflect his progressive views on issues such as class disparity, gender roles, and the corruption within the Church, making him a subtle yet powerful critic of his era.Notably, Chaucer's influence extends far beyond his lifetime. His innovative narrative techniques and character-driven storytelling laid the groundwork for future literary giants like Shakespeare and Dickens. Despite his profound impact, Chaucer's life was not without controversy. His involvement in the politically charged environment of the 14th-century English court and his alleged entanglement in a scandal involving the abduction of Cecilia Chaumpaigne add layers of intrigue to his biography.Chaucer's legacy endures, captivating modern readers with his timeless insights into the human condition and his pioneering spirit in the evolution of English literature.

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