Book Review 30 - The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer

Book Review 30 - The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer

Title: The Canterbury Tales. Author: Geoffrey Chaucer. Publication Details: Written between 1387 and 1400, published posthumously, notable editions include the Ellesmere Manuscript and the first printed version by William Caxton in 1478. Genre: Medieval Literature, Poetry, Satire. 

Introduction

The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer is a foundational work of English literature, celebrated for its vibrant characters, humor and exploration of diverse human perspectives. Chaucer’s collection of tales is set within a pilgrimage framework, where a group of travelers shares stories to pass the time on their journey to Canterbury. Written in Middle English during the late 14th century, The Canterbury Tales provides a fascinating window into medieval society and its values, making it an enduring study of human nature and a significant cultural document. 

Summary of the Plot

The plot revolves around 29 pilgrims journeying from Southwark to the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket at Canterbury Cathedral. To make the journey entertaining, the Host, Harry Bailey, proposes a storytelling competition. Each pilgrim is to tell two tales on the way to Canterbury and two on the return trip. Chaucer’s work includes only 24 tales, as it was never completed, but the diverse stories offer a rich spectrum of genres, from romance and adventure to moral fables and satirical commentary. Each tale is a reflection of the storyteller’s personality and social position, including characters such as the Knight, the Miller, the Pardoner, and the Wife of Bath. Through these stories, Chaucer paints a comprehensive picture of medieval life and its moral, social and spiritual conflicts. 

Analysis of Themes

One of the central themes in The Canterbury Tales is the examination of social class and hierarchy. Chaucer’s characters come from various social strata, from the nobility to the common tradesmen and each tale reveals the character’s attitude towards their social position. Themes of religion and morality are also central, with tales that scrutinize the corruption in the Church and question the validity of societal values. Another theme is the exploration of gender roles and marital relationships, particularly illustrated through the tales of the Wife of Bath and the Clerk, challenging the reader’s perceptions of love, authority and gender dynamics. Chaucer’s tales also delve into the nature of storytelling itself, emphasizing the transformative power of narrative and the way stories reflect individual and cultural values. 

Style and Structure

1. Narrative Style

Chaucer employs a frame narrative, allowing multiple stories within a single overarching journey. This structure creates a unique, layered narrative where each tale serves as both entertainment and a medium for expressing the teller's perspective. The Host’s role as a guide and judge adds a cohesive element, fostering interaction among the pilgrims and allowing for commentary on each tale. 

2. Language and Tone

Written in Middle English, Chaucer’s language combines eloquence with colloquialism, reflecting the various social standings of the pilgrims. His use of poetic forms, primarily rhyming couplets, adds rhythm and sophistication to the tales. Chaucer’s tone is both humorous and critical, using irony and wit to underscore his social observations. The humor ranges from lighthearted to bawdy, allowing Chaucer to address serious themes through satire without directly offending. 

Critical Evaluation

1. Strengths

One of the strengths of The Canterbury Tales lies in its character diversity, presenting a cross-section of medieval English society. Chaucer’s skill in characterization breathes life into each pilgrim, making them vivid, relatable and memorable. His insight into human nature and moral ambiguities lends depth to the tales, revealing both virtues and flaws. Chaucer’s mastery of satire and irony also stands out, as he deftly critiques societal norms, especially those within the Church and feudal system.

2. Weaknesses

While The Canterbury Tales is lauded for its humor and social insight, the incomplete nature of the text leaves readers with unresolved elements in the plot. The language, written in Middle English, can pose a challenge for modern readers, requiring translation or adaptation for accessibility. Additionally, some of Chaucer’s satire may be obscure without understanding the historical and cultural context of medieval England, which can distance the reader from the text’s full impact. 

Conclusion

The Canterbury Tales remains a cornerstone of English literature, capturing the essence of medieval life and addressing universal themes through a diverse array of voices. Geoffrey Chaucer’s unique blend of humor, social critique and vivid characterizations offers readers both an entertaining and thought-provoking experience. The work’s exploration of social class, religion, gender and storytelling solidifies its place as a profound and enduring study of human behavior. Though challenging in its language and cultural references, The Canterbury Tales remains relevant for its timeless examination of humanity. 

References

Chaucer, Geoffrey. The Canterbury Tales. Translated by Nevill Coghill, Penguin Classics, 1951.

Benson, Larry D., editor. The Riverside Chaucer. Oxford University Press, 1987.

Kolve, V. A., and Glending Olson, editors. The Canterbury Tales: Fifteen Tales and the General Prologue. W. W. Norton & Company, 2005.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the implication of the pilgrimage in The Canterbury Tales?

The pilgrimage serves as a framework for the tales and symbolizes a journey of spiritual and social reflection, uniting people from different walks of life. 

Why did Chaucer choose to leave The Canterbury Tales unfinished?

Chaucer likely left the work incomplete due to his death in 1400. However, the tales’ structure still provides a cohesive and insightful look into his intentions. 

What is the role of the Host in The Canterbury Tales?

The Host organizes and moderates the storytelling, providing humor and guiding the interactions, enhancing the sense of community among the pilgrims.