Chaucer’s Life

Geoffrey Chaucer (1340-1400) was born in the reign of Edward III, lived through that of Richard II and died the year
after Henry IV ascended the throne. He was an English poet and author. Widely considered the greatest English poet
of the Middle Ages, he is best known for The Canterbury Tales. He has been called the "father of English literature"or
alternatively the "father of English poetry". He was the first writer to be buried in what has since come to be called
Poets' Corner, in Westminster Abbey. Chaucer also gained fame as a philosopher and astronomer, composing the
scientific. He maintained a career in the civil service as a bureaucrat, courtier, diplomat, and member of parliament.

At seventeen he received a court appointment as page to the wife of the Duke of Clarence, Edward III.'s third son. In
1359 he was with the English army in France, where he was taken prisoner ; but he was soon ransomed, and
returned to England. Sometime after this he married, and became valet of the king's chamber. From that time
onward he was for many years closely connected with the court. He was often entrusted with diplomatic missions on
the continent, two of them being to Italy. He was thus brought into direct touch with Italian culture in the days of
the early Renaissance, and may even have met Petrarch and Boccaccio. Chaucer is very well known for his beautiful
and exceptional metrical innovation. He is famous for Canterbury tales which is a collection of stories told by
fictional pilgrims.

The age of Chaucer: (1340-1400)

The 14th century is known as the age of Chaucer. He was a great writer who is not only of an age but of all the ages.
It was the age of transition, a transformation of medieval to the modern times. The great age of Enlightenment and
Prosperity but initially, during the middle age, the people of England were not much satisfied with the so-called
religious, political and social principles.

The Historical Background

It includes the greater part of the reign of Edward III and the long French wars associated with his name; the
accession of his grandson Richard II (1377); and the revolution of 1399, the deposition of Richard, and the
foundation of the Lancastrian dynasty. From the literary point of view, of greater importance are the social and
intellectual movements of the period: the terrible plague called the Black Death, bringing poverty, unrest, and revolt
among the peasants, and the growth of the spirit of inquiry, which was strongly critical of the ways of the Church,
and found expression in the teachings of Wyclif and the Lollards, and in the stem denunciations of Langland.

LITERARY FEATURES OF THE AGE

1. The Standardizing of English. The period of transition is now nearly over. The English language has shaken
down to a kind of average--to the standard of the East Midland speech, the language of the capital city and of the
universities. The other dialects, with the exception of the Scottish branch, rapidly melt away from literature, till
they become quite exiguous. French and English have amalgamated to form the standard English tongue, which
attains to its first full expression in the works of Chaucer.
2. A curious 'modern' note begins to be apparent at this period-There is a sharper spirit of criticism, a more
searching interest in man's affairs, and a less childlike faith in, and a less complacent acceptance of, the
established order. The vogue of the romance, though it has by no means gone, is passing, and in Chaucer it is
derided. The freshness of the romantic ideal is being superseded by the more acute spirit of the drama, which
even at this early time is faintly foreshadowed. Another more modem feature that at once strikes the observer is
that the age of anonymity is passing away. Though many of the texts still lack named authors, the greater
number of the books can be definitely ascribed. Moreover, we have for the first time a figure of outstanding
literary importance, who gives to the age the form and pressure of his genius.
3. Prose. This era sees the foundation of an English prose style. Earlier specimens have been experimental or
purely imitative; now, in the works of Mandeville and Malory, we have prose that is both original and
individual.The English tongue is now ripe for a prose style. The language is settling to a standard; Latin.and
French are losing grip as popular prose mediums and the growing desire for an English Bible exercises a steady
pressure in favour of a standard English prose.
4. Scottish Literature. For the first time in our literature, in the person of Barbour Scotland supplies a writer
worthy of note. This is only the beginning for the tradition is handed on to the powerful group of poets who are
mentioned in the next chapter.

General Characteristics of Age:

1. Period: The period between 1343 and 1450 is known as the age of Chaucer. The age of Chaucer is the first
significant period in the Literary history of England. It marks the beginning of a new era, new language and new
literature.
2. An Era of Transition: Chaucer was born in a turbulent period of social, religious and political change. He was
born in the reign of Edward III, lived through that of Richard II, and died the year after Henry IV ascended the
throne.
3. Growth of National Sentiment: In this age, we come across an ardent upsurge of nationalism. The fusion of
Normans and Saxons had completely taken place even before the birth of Chaucer. The consciousness of national
unity was strengthened during “The Hundred Years’ War” with France and the battles of Crecy and Poitiers. The
victories of Edward and the Black Prince on French soil during the ‘The Hundred Years’ War’ gave a feeling of
national pride and self-respect to the people of England.
4. Black Death: Famine and Social Unrest: It was an epoch of natural calamities which increased the sufferings of
the common people. In 1348-49 came the terrible Black Death which carried off no less than one-third of the
population. It reappeared in 1362, 1367 and 1370.
5. The Corruption of the Church and the Reformation: The church, which was the seat of power and prestige,
was infected with corruption, moral loss and superstition. Politically, intellectually and spiritually its influence
had been diminished. The ecclesiastics were corrupt and demoralized. They rolled in wealth and luxury, and
indulged in sorts of vices and follies. They lived in a godless and materialistic world. Chaucer’s ecclesiastical
characters in the Prologue realistically depict the corruption of the church.
6. The Dawn of New Learning: In the age of Chaucer, the medieval habits and traditions still continued to
influence the masses. The Church still continued to influence the masses and controlled scholarship, thoughts
and feelings. Theology molded and affected the entire life of people and ecclesiastical ideas swayed the feelings of
common people, but their sway was to some extent weakened by the spirit of new learning. The spirit of
humanism, which was one of the formative influences of the age of Chaucer, engendered “the quickened sense of
 beauty, the delight in life, and the free secular spirit” which began to appear, though dimly, both in life and
literature. Root says: “The movement of Renaissance first assumed definite form, and our modern world began”.
7. Chaucer’s Work in General:
It is usual and convenient to divide Chaucer's literary career into three periods, which are called his French, his
Italian, and his English period, respectively. His genius was nourished, to begin with, on the French poetry and
romance, which formed the favourite reading of the court and cultivated society during the time of his youth.
Naturally, he followed the fashion, and his early work was done on French models. Thus, besides translating
portions at least of the then popular Roman de la Rose, he wrote, among other quite imitative things, an allegory
on the death of Blanche, John of Gaunt's wife, which he called The Book of the Duchesse (1369), and which is
wholly in the manner of the reigning French school.

Then, almost certainly as a direct result of his visits to Italy, French influences disappear, and Italian
influences take their place. In this second period (1370-84), Chaucer is the disciple of the great Italian masters,
for The House of Fame clearly owes much to Dante, while Troylus and Cryseyde, by far his longest single poem,
is based upon, and in part translated from, Boccaccio's Filostrato. To the close of this period the unfinished
Legende of Good Women may also be referred.

Finally, he ceases to be Italian as he had ceased to be French, and becomes English. This does not mean that
he no longer draws freely upon French and Italian material. He continues to do this to the end. It simply means
that, instead of being merely imitative, he becomes independent, relying upon himself entirely even for the use to
which he puts his borrowed themes. To this last period belong, together with sundry minor poems, the
Canterbury Tales, in which we have Chaucer's most famous and most characteristic work.

The Canterbury Tales

The Canterbury is a “frame narrative”; Chaucer tells the story of a group of pilgrims traveling from London to
Canterbury Tales to visit the shrine of the martyr St. Thomas Beckett. On their trip, each pilgrim is to tell two stories
as part of the storytelling contest; the winner will be awarded dinner by Harry Bailly, the Host of the Tabard Inn.
Chaucer makes himself a character on the journey, so we need to distinguish between Chaucer the poet, who wrote
the Tales, and Chaucer the Pilgrim, a literary creation of the poet.
The first character introduced in the knight, the highest-ranking individual on the pilgrimage. There is some
scholarly debate as to whether Chaucer’s portrait of the knight is meant to be ironic or if we are to take Chaucer’s
description as serious and the knight as a humble, pious man. The knight is followed by his son, the squire, and
their servant, the Yeoman.

The highest ranking woman is the next to be introduced: the Prioress, the head nun of a covenant and of noble birth
and good education. There is also some scholarly controversy over whether or not Chaucer is criticizing the Prioress
for her fancy dress and manners, but most critics think he is simply enamored of her. The monk who follows the
Prioress is a welldressed man and a hunter who does not care for monastic discipline; Chaucer the Pilgrim says that
the Monk’s “opinion was good.” we then meet a Friar, a wandering preacher, whom Chaucer criticizes for being more
interested in taverns than in poor people.

The merchant, with a forked beard, is dressed richly and rides high on his horse. The clerk of Oxford loves books
more than fancy dress; he rides upon a lean horse and is more interested in learning and teaching than anything
else. The man of law is well educated and well dressed, as is the Franklin, who is famous for the quality of the food
at his house. Then come some members of the working class: a Hat maker, Carpenter, Weaver, Dyer, a Cook (who is
a disgusting running sore on his leg), and the Shipman, a Sailor. Next comes the Physician, whom Chaucer says
loves gold most of all.

Next comes Chaucer’s most famous character, the Wife of Bath, who has been married five times and has ended up
very rich. She is a weaver who is dressed in extravagant clothes; her gap-tooth, mouth may indicate that she is
thought to be sexually promiscuous.

Then we have the description of two characters whom Chaucer respects the most, the Parson and his brother the
Plowman who both work very hard at their jobs in the and third states. Then comes the Miller, who is drunk,
arrogant, and violent. He is followed by the Manciple, who is the purchasing agent for a law court and who, Chaucer
says, knows how to embezzle his employers for his own benefit. The Reeve, who is responsible for managing a
country estate, is old and somewhat bitter and is able to outwit his lord easily. The Summoner’s job is to deliver legal
summonses for people called into ecclesiastical courts; he abuses his power to gain power over young women he
meets.

The Pardoner sells pardons that people can buy to remove their sins. Finally comes a description of the Host, Harry
Bailly, who proposes the tale- telling contest.
General Characteristics of Chaucer's Poetry.

Chaucer was not in any sense a poet of the people. He was a court poet, who wrote for cultured readers and are
fined society. The great vital issues of the day never inspired his verse. He made his appeal to an audience composed
of the favoured few, who wanted to be amused by comedy, or touched by pathos, or moved by romantic sentiment,
but who did not wish to be disturbed by painful reminders of plagues, famines, and popular discontent. Thus,
though he holds the mirror up to the life of his time, the dark underside of it is nowhere reflected by him.

It is significant that his only mention of the peasants' revolt is in the form of a humorous reference in the Nonnes
Priestes Tale of the Cock and the Fox. It is true that, as we have seen, he felt the religious corruptions of the world
about him, and not only his satiric portraits of unworthy churchmen, to which I have referred, but also his beautiful
companion study of the poor parson, who was indeed no hireling, but a real shepherd, show his sympathy in a
general way with some of Wyclif's ideas. But on the whole he left burning questions alone. His was an easy-going,
genial, tolerant nature, and nothing of the reformer went to its composition. The serious note is indeed sometimes
heard in his poetry; as when, for example, he writes :

That thee is sent receyve in buxomnesse The wrastling of this world

asketh a fal;
Here is no hoom,here is but wildernesse.
Forth, pilgrim, forth ! forth, best out of thy stal! Look upon hye, and thonke God of
al.

But this is not its characteristic tone ; its characteristic tone is that of frank pleasure in the good things of
life.'Chaucer's temperament thus explains his relations withhis age. Little touched by its religious or social
movements,he responded readily to the influence of Italian humanism, and it is through him that its free secular
spirit first expresses itself in our poetry. If Wyclif was "the morning star of the Reformation," Chaucer may be
called"the morning star of the Renaissance." A specially charming feature of his poetry is its fresh out-of-doors
atmosphere. His descriptions of the country are often indeed in the conventional manner of his time, and his garden
landscape and May flowers are to some extent things of tradition only. But he has a real love of nature and
particularly of the spring, and when he writes of these, as in the Prologue and the Knightes Tale, the personal accent
is unmistakable.
 We have already spoken of Chaucer's importance in the history of our language. His fourteenth century (or"Middle ")
English looks very difficult at first, but only a little time and perseverance are needed to master it, and these will be
amply repaid by the pleaswure we are sure to find in the felicity of his diction and the melody of his verse.

It will be observed that he abandons altogether the Old English irregular lines and alliteration “rim, ram, roff” as he
jestingly calls it and adopts the French method of regular metre and end-rimes. Under his influence rime gradually
displaced alliteration in English poetry.

About The Canterbury Tales

Other collections of tales existed before Chaucer's, the most famous being Boccaccio's Decameron, in which three young
lords and seven young ladies agree to tell tales while they stay in a country villa to avoid the plague that is ravaging the
cities. Because each of Boccaccio's narrators belongs to the same high social class, the Decameron tales are similar in
their sophistication.

Chaucer, however, came up with the ingenuous literary device of having a pilgrimage, a technique that allowed him to
bring together a diverse group of people. Thus Chaucer's narrators represent a wide spectrum of society with various
ranks and occupations. From the distinguished and noble Knight, we descend through the pious abbess (the Prioress),
the honorable Clerk, the rich landowner (the Franklin), the worldly and crude Wife, and on down the scale to the low,
vulgar Miller and Carpenter, and the corrupt Pardoner.

Aside from the high literary standard of The Canterbury Tales, the work stands as a historical and sociological
introduction to the life and times of the late Middle Ages. During Chaucer's time, regardless how brilliant and talented
one might be, there was no way for a commoner to move from his class into the aristocracy. Chaucer, however, made
that leap as well as anyone could. As a commoner, he was familiar with and was accepted by the lower classes as well
as by the higher classes; thus, throughout his life, he was able to observe both the highest and the lowest, and his
gifted mind made the best of these opportunities.

Chaucer's genius at understanding basic human nature made him the great poet he was. He knew the world from many
aspects, and he loved most of his characters. The mature adult would find it difficult not to like such characters as The
Wife of Bath, even with all her bawdiness, or the Miller with his vulgarity that amuses rather than offends sophisticated
readers. Chaucer presents the world as he sees it, and he shares one quality with all great writers: He is a delight to
read.

Character analysis ( hey! Do read “how they belong to nobility, clergy and peasantry”)
Chaucer gives a detailed picture of the characters he has used in ‘The Canterbury Tales’ in his ‘General Prologue.’ His
characters, the Thirty Pilgrims including the Host belong to diverse ranks and professions, represent a wide range of
society. They represent chivalry, Learned and Liberal professions, Commercial Community, Agriculture, and Smaller
London traders and manufacturers. Ecclesiastical characters represent the religious orders of the time. These portraits
of Chaucer depict the world as he has seen at that time.
The Narrator
The narrator is none other than the poet, Geoffrey Chaucer, himself. Still, he has kept himself away from including his
personal biased opinions. His expertise in carving the characters is projected in presenting the characters as they were.
In ‘Canterbury Tales’, he too is a pilgrim who is on his way to Canterbury.
The Host (Harry Bailey)
Harry Bailey, the host is the owner of the Tabard Inn. He volunteers to travel with the pilgrims and brings forth the idea
of storytelling to ward off boredom. Further, he promises to be their guide and fair judge of the tales, the characters to
say during their journey.
The Knight
The Knight is the most prominent person on the pilgrimage with his high social order. He is the first pilgrim to be
described and the one who is the teller of the first tale. In the words of Chaucer: “Verray parfitgentil Knight.” All
throughout the journey, he epitomizes chivalry, truth, and honor.

The Squire
The Squire is the Knight’s son. He is young and vain but has the ability to sing, write poetry, and ride a horse very well.
With his dressing and personality, he fits his age well in contrast to the personality of the Knight.
The Yeoman
In addition to the Squire, the knight has brought only this yeoman. He, with his dressing, expresses his free will.
Looking at his adornments, the dagger, Bow, Arrows, and Dress, Chaucer makes a guess that he could a forester than
the regular owner of the estate.
The Prioress (Madame Eglantine)
The Prioress represents the corrupted church. She tries to present herself as a genteel lady of high standard and
manners than with austerity which is generally expected of a nun. She acted shy and coy. Moreover, she wears a coral
rosary with a gold brooch with “Love conquers all” inscribed in Latin.
Second Nun
The second nun accompanies the prioress. She is her chaplain. She too seems to be worldly than being stern as she
should be.
The Three Priests
The priests accompany the nuns to Canterbury and Chaucer doesn’t speak anything about them in the
‘general prologue.’
The Monk
The Monk, too represents the degradation of the church. For, he has a modern outlook and doesn’t confine himself to
the old strict regulations. He prefers to indulge in hunting and other sports than being within the cloister. In his dress
and appearance, he represents the world more than the church.
Hubert, the Friar
The friar bears witness to the growing corruption and worldliness among the clergy. He is a squanderer, given to gossip
and slander, yet esteemed as a worthy representative of his order. A friar ought to be living in poverty but he loves
money. Also, he knows the taverns and innkeepers better than the poor houses and needy.
The Merchant
The merchant represents the rising middle class of Chaucer’s time. He is shrewd and intelligent to strike a good
bargain.
The Clerk
The Clerk is a learned man from Oxford University. He loves learning and leads a poor life for the sake of his thirst for
knowledge. He prefers to spend all his money buying books than leading an extravagant life. He is respected and loved
by all the pilgrims including the narrator.
The Man of Law (or Sergeant of Law)
The Man of Law is one of the high justices of the court. He is cautious and wise, for he has learned everything that he
would require to be a skillful man in his profession. He is one of the refined men among the pilgrims.
The Franklin
The Franklin is a wealthy and independent landowner. He enjoys high living and good companionship for the table in
his house is always made to invite guests. As Chaucer comments: He is “Epicurus owene sone” living in comfort.
The Guildsmen
The company of Guildsmen included a haberdasher, a carpenter, a weaver, a dyer, and a tapestry-maker. They were
enjoying the growing richness as a result of England becoming a commercially important place.
Roger, the Cook
The Guildsmen brought along with them the “Cook” Roger. He is known for his expertise in cooking. Unfortunately, he
suffers with a chancre sore that runs with pus.
The Shipman
The Mariners and Shipmen of Chaucer’s period had good trade and enjoyed a sophisticated life. The Shipmen too is
skilled in steering a ship and very calculative.
The Physician
The Doctor is not only aware of medicines, drugs, and humours but also knows astrology. He involves in the profession
more with his passion for money than for service. It seems like he is fond of gold and made a lot of money during the
plague.
The Wife of Bath (Alisoun)
The Wife of Bath is a snob who wears bright scarlet red stockings. SHe is called after “Bath” an English town on the
Avon River, a place from where she came, not with her husband’s name. For, she had had five husbands which is not a
commonly accepted practice of the age, yet flaunts it openly. She is deaf in one ear and has a gap between her front
teeth. Above she had been to Jerusalem and other holy places as a pilgrim.
The Parson
The Parson is presented as a holy and virtuous man in contrast to other corrupted clergymen. He extends his hand to
his poor parishioners in need. Also, he believes more in action than words. Thus, he tries his might to live the perfect
life and set an ideal for his parishioners and others.
The Plowman
The plowman represents the class of true laborers who lead a good, religious, and charitable life. He is a brother to the
parson.
The Reeve
A very old and irritable man who was once a carpenter. He resents Miller’s tale about a stupid old carpenter.
The Miller
The Miller is a bulky fellow who takes part in wrestling matches and wins almost all. He is a drunkard and an
overbearing man.
The Summoner
The Summoner is a direct contrast to the parson. He frightens children with his pimple face, red complexion, and
narrow eyes. Misfortune of the people enables him to lead a happy life. He makes a living by threatening to report for
real or imaginary offenses.
The Pardoner
Chaucer gives a complex picture of the Pardoner. He speaks about his ability to make a profit using his intelligence,
which is not a call of a clergy ma. At the same time, he claims that he can read, sing songs, and preach a good sermon.
Pardoner excels in fraudulence, for he carries around a bag full of fake relics, planning to make money his way out of
my using poor and ignorant parishioners as a scapegoat.
The Manciple
The Manciple is the last to be depicted by Chaucer of the twenty-nine pilgrims. Although he is just a steward in the law
school, he knew better ways to put away some money for himself by making good bargains.

Prologue to Canterbury Tales

Introduction

Chaucer begins his masterpiece with an appreciation for the season of spring. The time of blooming flowers, pleasant
weather, and welcome rain. The cool droplets of awaited showers bring relief to the dry winter lands and revitalize the
plants and men alike.

The season of rejuvenation brings with it a new form of sensual lusts together with a desire for spiritual attainment.
Hence, the people get ready to start the journey to the holy places.

They are getting ready to embark on the pilgrimage to the sacred Canterbury Cathedral and its resting hero, Martyr St.
Thomas à Becket. They are longing of the martyr’s blessings and come from every part and every stratum of the English
society and life.

Chaucer changes roles from the write to the narrator and joins the ranks of the pilgrims, collected together in
Southwark, London at popular haunt called ‘the Tabard Inn’

He is staying at the place with 29 other Englishmen from all over the country to start their journey to Canterbury. He is
ever so glad to be their company and accepts their invitation enthusiastically. They decide to begin on their spiritual
and religious quest the next morning.

But before the pilgrimage starts, he makes a point to observe and analyze every individual and create a persona based
on their visible and discernible choices, manners and appearance. He prepares profiles for each person and gives his
verdict on their social category or rank.
Prologue to The Canterbury Tales Conclusion

Seemingly aware of his own biases and prejudices, Chaucer exhorts the readers to consider his reportage as close to
their honest accounts as possible. Any errors or additions on his part would be unjust and grossly misrepresentative of
the individuals being described.

He employs a linear and simplistic style of storytelling without many twists and frills. It keeps the reportage as close to
the real and unaltered as possible.

Obviously, when he goes to narrate each individual’s stories, he takes the liberty of using their personal traits and
quirks as governing markers in the narration style.

Now the owner of the Tabard Inn, the host arranges the supper for every pilgrim and that wins the heart of
everyone. Hospitable and affable, he praises them as the best bunch of pilgrims he has met and proffers an innovative
sport for them.

He expounds that rather than travelling to Canterbury is disparate and unconnected strangers why do not all the
pilgrims play a round of story-telling. He encourages all of them to narrate two stories on the way to Canterbury and
two on the return journey.

This will keep their morale and energies up for the journey. He propositions that he would be the final judge for the
quality of the tales. He promises a free meal to the best talebearer on the return which the rest of the party will fund.

The Host decided to pay for his own travel with one condition that if anyone argues with his final judgment, that person
will bear the cost of his travel. Every pilgrim gets onboard with the idea. The pilgrimage now becomes an exciting
adventure rather than a chastening spiritual quest.

They all embark on their adventure the next morning. Straws are drawn to decide the order of storytellers. The Knight,
mush out of resounding admiration and universal regard gets to go first.
He draws the short one and gets to tell his tale first. The rest of the poem describes various tales from the pilgrims. In
the end, not everyone gets to tell their stories let alone two of them and the merry group does not even make it to
Canterbury. As it happens, Chaucer did not finish his own magnum opus.

Summary and Analysis The Knight's Tale (Do read other tales too.)

Summary

Part I: Duke Theseus returns from overthrowing Scythia with his new wife, Hippolyta, and her sister, Emilie. Outside
Athens, he meets a band of weeping women and learns that the tyrant Creon has murdered their husbands and
dishonors the dead by leaving them unburied. Incensed, Theseus quickly overthrows Creon and restores the Theban
dead to the women for ceremonial burying. After the destruction of Creon's forces, booty hunters find two young knights
(Palamon and Arcite) who are not quite dead. Theseus decides against executing the knights and instead imprisons
them with no hope of ransom.

One morning several years later, Palamon sees the beautiful Emilie wandering about in her garden and cries out in
pain. Arcite peers from the tower window and, upon seeing the fair Emilie, proclaims his own love for her. Because both
knights claim their love for Emilie, their friendship gives way to hostility. About this time, a friend to both Theseus and
Arcite arrives in Athens and secures Arcite's release on the condition that he never return to Athens. Both knights think
the other luckier: Palamon, because he can still see the beautiful Emilie; Arcite, because he can raise an army and
capture her.

Part II: Back in Thebes, Arcite sinks into a lover's melancholy. As a result of his lamenting, his physical appearance
changes so much that he is no longer recognizable. One night, Mercury, the messenger of the gods, appears and orders
him to return to Athens, which he does. Taking the name Philostrate, Arcite is employed as a page in the House of
Emilie. Several years pass and Philostrate/Arcite rises to a high and respected position in the court of Theseus.

Meanwhile, Palamon languishes in the prison tower. At last, whether by chance or destiny, Palamon escapes and flees
to a grove. That morning, by chance, Arcite goes to the same grove and, thinking himself alone, recites his history
aloud, blaming Juno, Mars, and especially Venus for his plight. Palamon, who had not recognized Arcite, finally
identifies him through his lament and leaps up, swearing to kill Arcite for his treachery and law breaking. The two
arrange to duel the following day.

The next day, the men duel, dismissing all knightly ceremony. Theseus and his entourage arrive upon the bloody scene.
Theseus stops the duel and rebukes the knights for their behavior. Palamon tells all, demanding that both be killed for
their crimes, and Theseus swears that the wish will be granted, but he relents when the women of his company beg
mercy for the knights. Theseus proposes a formal tournament in one year with each knight supported by one hundred
knights. The winner of the joust will get the hand of Emilie.

Part III: At the end of the year, Arcite and Palamon, each at the head of one hundred knights, return to Athens for the
joust. Theseus welcomes them all and entertains them in high fashion. On the evening before the battle, Palamon,
Emilie, and Arcite pray. Palamon prays to Venus, goddess of love; Emilie prays to Diana, goddess of chastity; and Arcite
prays to Mars, god of war. All receive a vision indicating that their prayers will be answered. The three prayers and
resulting promises cause confusion in heaven until Saturn, god of destiny, promises that Palamon will win his love and
Arcite will win the battle.

Part IV: The battle begins, and after much pageantry and heroic fighting, Palamon is badly wounded and taken from
the field. Arcite is declared the winner. Saturn sends a fury from Pluto to make Arcite's horse shy. Wounded, Arcite is
carried to Theseus' palace. As he lies dying, Arcite acknowledges that he knows no person better than Palamon and
begs Emilie to accept Palamon as her husband. Arcite dies and Theseus arranges a great funeral for him. After a long
period of mourning, Palamon and Emilie are married and live out their lives in "a love unbroken."

Analysis

let's delve deeper into a critical analysis of "The Knight's Tale" from Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury
Tales":

Narrative Structure and Style:

Chaucer's choice to place "The Knight's Tale" at the beginning of "The Canterbury Tales" is significant. The Knight, who
tells this tale, represents the highest social class among the pilgrims. His tale serves as a model of chivalric romance
and sets a tone of nobility and honor for the entire collection.

The narrative style is formal and structured, featuring rhymed couplets and courtly language. This formal style aligns
with the character of the Knight and reflects the influence of classical literature on Chaucer's work.

Chivalry and Courtly Love:

Chaucer explores the ideals of chivalry and courtly love through the characters of Arcite and Palamon. Their love for
Emily is characterized by devotion, nobility, and self-sacrifice. They are willing to endure suffering and even risk their
lives in pursuit of their beloved.

However, the tale also highlights the darker side of chivalry, as the rivalry between Arcite and Palamon escalates to the
point of violence and threatens the established order in Athens.

Fate and Free Will:

The theme of fate versus free will is central to the tale. Despite their efforts, the ultimate outcome for Arcite and
Palamon seems to be determined by divine intervention and the favor of the gods. This underscores the idea that
human actions are subject to larger forces beyond their control.

The character of Emily, who has no agency in choosing her own husband, serves as a symbol of the powerlessness of
individuals in the face of fate.

Irony and Tragedy:

Chaucer employs irony throughout the tale, particularly in the ironic twist of Arcite's victory and subsequent death. The
tale challenges traditional notions of a triumphant ending in romance literature. The pursuit of love and honor leads to
tragedy rather than a conventional happy ending.

This irony can be seen as a commentary on the unpredictability of life and the limitations of human understanding. It
reminds readers that in reality, not all stories conclude neatly or happily.

Classical and Medieval Influence:

"The Knight's Tale" demonstrates Chaucer's deep familiarity with classical literature, drawing on works like Boccaccio's
"Teseida" and Statius' "Thebiad." Chaucer melds classical themes with medieval chivalric ideals to create a unique
narrative.

The tale's setting, with elements of both ancient Greece and medieval Europe, reflects Chaucer's blending of classical
and medieval traditions.

Themes of Order and Disorder:

The tale explores the tension between order and disorder. The structured world of Athens represents order and justice,
while the forest, where the knights duel, symbolizes chaos and lawlessness. The grand tournament later in the story
restores order but at a cost.

This theme raises questions about the role of order and authority in society and the consequences of disrupting
established norms.

In conclusion, "The Knight's Tale" is a complex and multi-layered narrative that combines elements of chivalric
romance, classical influence, and irony to create a thought-provoking exploration of love, fate, and the human
condition. Chaucer's narrative skills and thematic depth make it a rich and enduring work that invites readers to
consider the complexities of life and literature.

The Canterbury Tales Themes

‘Theme’ is a central idea present in a literary piece. It serves as an essential ingredient that makes a story appealing and
persuasive. Themes in The Canterbury Tales, a superb work of Geoffrey Chaucer is diverse and unique. Not only they
deal with the dilemma of class and deception, but also show immoral and corrupt standards of the church in early 14th
century. Some of the major themes in The Canterbury Tales have been discussed below.

Themes in The Canterbury Tales

Theme #1
Social satire

It is the major theme of The Canterbury Tales. The medieval society was set on three foundations: the nobility, the
church, and the peasantry. Chaucer’s satire targets all segments of the medieval social issues, human immorality, and
depraved heart. For example, he exposes each social layers of his pilgrims and beautifully illustrates how they fail to
fulfill their actual duties. He further shows the theme of social satire in The Nun’s Priest’s Tale that satirizes courtly love
and sets aside standard of dignity. The Wife of Bath’s Tale mocks the religious logic as the wife interprets The Bible
verses in her own way to support her argument.

Theme #2
Courtly Love and Sexual Desire
Courtly love in the medieval setup is something noble and spiritual that does not mean to be achieved physically. The
Knight’s Tale, in the general prologue, is an obvious example of courtly love where two knights fight for the hand of a
fair lady. The intensity of love makes them forget oaths and duties toward the state. Furthermore, the insightful
description of the squire, a young knight, possesses all the ornaments of courtly love. He sings, writes, plays flutes,
maintains his physical appearance, and burns with a passion that keeps him awake. Apart from courtly love and
sexual desire, lust also plays a major role in The Canterbury Tales. For examples, The Miler’s Tale is based on sexual
desire and The Wife of Bath’s Tale represents the lust and sexual desire of the lady. Therefore, courtly love and sexual
desire are common features of medieval society discussed by Chaucer.

Theme #3
Corruption in Church
The idea of corruption also upholds thematic significance in The Canterbury Tales, because most of the characters
associated with the church are not religious, pious or dutiful as they must be. The Pardoner’s Tale is the best example
of corruption. He is a medieval preacher assigned with the duty to collect money for holy purposes. He performs this
duty and walks in the town with holy relics, preaches about the dangers of greed and raises money. However, the
collection is not for a religious purpose; instead, he fills his own pocket. While narrating the tale, he does not seem to
have any regret and displays pride for his actions.

Theme #4
Competition
Competition is another major theme in The Canterbury Tales. It is explicitly stated in tales as well as present among the
pilgrims. The Knight’s Tale is set on the theme of competition where two prisoners fall in love with the same girl. Both
are at good terms, but the lady becomes the bone of contention and makes them opponent of each other. The desire of
love makes them bloodthirsty. At last, one is killed, and the other wins the hand of that lady. Out of these tales, the
pilgrims also set the competition of storytelling. They seem to be impatient as well, as Miller jumps in to tell his tale
after the Knight without waiting for his turn. Everyone tries to tell the best story continuing the competition, even
though most of the stories are the versions of the stories already told.

Theme #5
Christianity
The thematic significance of Christianity can be marked by the fact that the tales take place in a religious setting where
everyone is going on a religious pilgrimage. Most of the notable figures of the church; the Monk, the Nun, the Parson,
and the Friar are detailed in the general prologue, representing distinct areas of the church of that time. Some of them
are true worshipers of Christ, while the others are corrupt. Therefore, Chaucer has artistically painted the picture of the
custodians of the church having spoiled the true spirit of Christianity.

Theme #6
Class
Class or status is another notable theme in The Canterbury Tales. This theme is explored through the comparison of
the people who belong to a better class with those who attempt to appear as an upper class. Chaucer has presented two
diverse characters, the Prioress and the Parson in the prologue. It is through these characters; he foreshadows the
importance of status in medieval society. The Prioress, a nun by profession, is seen as an up-to-date woman, concerned
with her manner and behavior. In contrast, the Parson, a clergyman, acts and behaves keeping in mind his class and
duties. Despite knowing her duties, the Nun tries to look wealthy, whereas the Parson is not obsessed to maintain his
class. This class and class consciousness run deep into the tales told by different characters.

Theme #7
Lies and Deception
Lies and deception are also one of the major themes in the prologue as well as individual tales. Most characters lie
about their social status to maintain their respect. For instance, the Merchant appears to be a wealthy man at first, but
as the tale progresses, he reveals that he is in debt. The Pardoner deceives people by selling fake relics, and the Miller
also deceives others by selling his flour again and again. It happens that when people try to maintain their false
standards, they often carefully plan before lying and cheating.
Theme #8
Justice and Judgement
The thematic value of justice and judgment can be seen in the tales that demand answers. For instance, The Knight’s
Tale asks who was a better knight, Arcite or Palamon? The Franklin’s Tale also poses a question to the audience to
consider each of the characters and decides who is the most generous. Therefore, judgment plays an active role in
most of the tales.

Theme #9
Rivalry
Rivalry also holds a thematic value in The Canterbury Tales. There are rivals in story-telling, who insult each other.
Palamon and Arcite in The Knight’s Tale forget their brotherhood and become rivals to marry Emelye. There are also
rivals in trickery who smartly play tricks on others. Some members of the pilgrim group are also rivaling like the Miller
and the Reeve. Their rivalry causes tension in the group. Chaucer presents how competition can quickly turn a friend
into an enemy.

Theme #10
Company
The theme of a company in the general prologue is not only evident but also very strong. Pilgrims are going to visit the
relics of Thomas Becket in the company of each other. Most of the pilgrims are guildsmen, members of a specific trade.
Many of them belong to the church, but they also represent a group. Although they belong to different standards and
classes, they stay in a group, sharing the same purpose.