Geoffrey Chaucer is known as the “Father of English Literature”. He lived during the late 14th
century. It is known as the Middle English Period.
Chaucer’s literary career ranges from approximately 1360 to 1400, making
him a prominent figure in English literature during the latter part of the
Middle Ages.
Chaucer’s works reflect the transitional nature of the literary
landscape during his time. The
Middle English period saw the gradual shift from Old English to Early
Modern English that emerged in the
Renaissance. Chaucer’s writing played a crucial role in this linguistic and
literary development. Chaucer helped to solidify
the use of Middle English as a literary language.
Chaucer’s most famous work, “The Canterbury Tales,” was written in the late
14th century and exemplifies the
characteristics and themes of the time. The poem consists of a collection of stories told
by a diverse group of pilgrims traveling to Canterbury. Each member of the
group represents a different class and profession in medieval society. Through these tales, Chaucer provides a vivid depiction of the
social, cultural, and moral aspects of his era.
Chaucer’s writing also reflects the literary traditions of his
time. He was greatly influenced by French
and Italian literary sources. There was a deep impression of the works of
authors such as Boccaccio and Dante on his mind. Chaucer’s knowledge of these
traditions, combined with his mastery of the English language, allowed him to
create a unique and distinctive body of work that showcased the emerging
literary potential of Middle English.
In addition to “The Canterbury Tales,” Chaucer’s other
major works include “Troilus and
Criseyde,” . It is a tragic romance
based on the story of Troilus and Cressida from Greek mythology. His other work “The Book of the Duchess,” is an elegy on the death of John of Gaunt’s wife,
Blanche.
Chaucer’s writings left a lasting impact on subsequent
generations of poets and writers. His influence can be seen in the works of
later English authors such as Edmund Spenser
and William Shakespeare. They drew
inspiration from Chaucer’s storytelling
techniques and use of vernacular English.
To conclude, the age of Chaucer in English literature, the late
14th century, marked a significant transition in the evolution of the English
language and the emergence of Middle English as a literary medium. Chaucer’s
works played a pivotal role in this transformation, and his contributions
continue to be celebrated and studied as important pillars of English literary
history.
Contribution of Geoffrey Chaucer to the Development of English
Literature.
Geoffrey Chaucer made significant contributions to the
development of English literature during the Middle Ages. His works are celebrated for their vivid characters, realistic
dialogue, and insightful social commentary. Here are some key contributions of Chaucer to English
literature:
1.
“The Canterbury
Tales”: Chaucer’s most famous
work, “The Canterbury Tales,” is a collection of stories told by a
diverse group of pilgrims journeying to the shrine of Thomas Becket in
Canterbury. This masterpiece showcases Chaucer’s skill in creating a wide range
of memorable characters from various social classes and professions. Through
their tales, Chaucer provides a panoramic view of medieval society. He satirizes
its vices and virtues, and explores themes of
love, morality, and human nature.
2.
Vernacular English: Chaucer played a pivotal role in elevating Middle English as a literary language. During the medieval period, Latin was predominantly used for
serious literature, but Chaucer broke with convention and wrote his major works
in English, specifically the East
Midlands dialect, making them accessible
to a wider audience. His use of English helped establish the language’s
legitimacy and contributed to its development into the Modern English we use
today.
3.
Poetic Style: Chaucer’s poetic style was innovative for his time. He adopted the iambic pentameter and
introduced the rhyming scheme known as the
heroic couplet, which became a
significant poetic form in English literature. Chaucer’s use of descriptive
language, vivid imagery, and playful wordplay showcased his mastery of poetic
techniques.
4.
Characterization: Chaucer’s characters in “The Canterbury Tales” are
remarkable for their individuality and realism. He brought diverse individuals
to life through their distinct voices, manners, and idiosyncrasies. Chaucer’s characters represent a cross-section of medieval
society, ranging from nobles and clergy to merchants, artisans, and peasants. Through his portrayal of these characters, Chaucer exposed
societal flaws and commented on issues such as corruption, hypocrisy, and social hierarchy.
5.
Social Commentary: Chaucer’s works are rich in social commentary, offering a
critical examination of medieval English society. He exposed the moral and
ethical shortcomings of the clergy, mocked the pretensions of the nobility, and
shed light on the struggles and aspirations of the common people. Chaucer’s
nuanced observations of human behaviour and social dynamics continue to
resonate with readers and provide valuable insights into the medieval period.
6.
Influence on English
Literature: Chaucer’s impact on
English literature cannot be overstated. His writing influenced subsequent
generations of poets and writers, including William Shakespeare, who drew inspiration from Chaucer’s
characterizations and narrative techniques.
Chaucer’s use of English as a literary language helped pave the way for the
flourishing of English literature in the centuries that followed.
Geoffrey Chaucer’s contributions to English literature have left
an indelible mark on the literary landscape. His enduring works continue to be
studied, appreciated, and celebrated for their artistry, social commentary, and
their role in shaping the development of the English language.
