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CANTERBURY TALES

Q1. Write up on “A note on Chaucer’s language” in about min 300 words.

To someone reading Chaucer for the first time, his language looks both familiar and foreign. Many of
the words are the same as in Present Day English; others are recognizable but strangely spelled; still
others are completely unintelligible. Some sentences make instant sense whereas others may unravel
partway through.
Geoffrey Chaucer's language, as showcased in his seminal work ‘The Canterbury Tales’, stands as an
impressive intersection of linguistic evolution and literary innovation. Composed in the latter half of
the 14th century, Chaucer wrote in Middle English, a period of transition between the Old English of
Beowulf and the Modern English we recognize today. This linguistic landscape provides a captivating
lens through which to explore Chaucer's narrative prowess and the societal context in which he wrote.

At the heart of Chaucer's language lies its richness and versatility. Drawing from a multitude of
sources, including Old English, French, Latin, and regional dialects, Chaucer crafted a linguistic
tapestry that reflects the diverse cultural influences of his time. This amalgamation of linguistic
elements not only demonstrates the fluidity of language but also serves to enrich the texture and
authenticity of his storytelling. One of the most intriguing aspects of Chaucer's language is its
accessibility. Despite the temporal gap between Chaucer's era and the present day, his language
remains remarkably comprehensive to modern readers with some effort and familiarity. This
accessibility speaks to the enduring power of Chaucer's craftsmanship, allowing his work to transcend
the barriers of time and connect with audiences across centuries.

Moreover, Chaucer's language serves as a window into the social dynamics of medieval England.
Through his careful depiction of various social classes, occupations, and regional dialects, Chaucer
provides valuable insights into the cultural milieu of his time. Each character in ‘The Canterbury
Tales’ speaks in a manner consistent with their background, allowing Chaucer to subtly comment on
issues of class, power, and identity. Through his mastery of Middle English and his keen
understanding of narrative technique, Chaucer continues to captivate and inspire readers, inviting
them to journey alongside his pilgrims on the road to Canterbury and beyond.

Q2. Paraphrase on introduction of knight in about 500 words

A Knyght ther was,and that a worthy man

That fro the tyme that he first bigan …
For he was late ycome from his viage,
And wente for to do his pilgrimage .

‘The Canterbury Tales’ is a collection of stories written by Geoffrey Chaucer in the late 14th century.
The tales are presented as part of a story-telling contest by a group of pilgrims as they travel together
to the shrine of Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral. Some of the most notable tales include "The
Knight's Tale," a romance about two knights competing for the love of a woman

Chaucer introduces us to a Knight who is a man of honour and goodness. He admires qualities such as
courage, truth, honour, freedom, and politeness, which he has possessed since his youth. He has
fought in many wars for his lord and has travelled to distant lands. Chaucer lists all the battles he had
participated in, both against Christians and non-Christians, and how respected he was for his bravery.
The Knight is not only brave but also wise and kind. He is as gentle as a young woman and has never
spoken rudely to anyone. He is, in fact, a perfect and gentle Knight. However, he is not dressed in
fancy clothes, as his armour has stained them, having returned from his battles and gone straight for
his pilgrimage. Among the group of pilgrims, the Knight is the highest-ranking member. He
represents chivalry and is a professional soldier. Chaucer describes him as a good man, using the
word ‘worthy’ several times without any sarcasm. The Knight embodies all the virtues associated with
nobility and he is seen as an ideal figure.

To understand what knighthood and chivalry means, we need to look back to it’s origins. According
to Muriel Bowden, Pope Urban II created the Christian ideal of knighthood in 1095 during the First
Crusade. From then on, knights were supposed to fight for the church, oppose non-believers, protect
the weak, and defend justice. By the fourteenth century, everyone knew how a true knight should
behave, even though they were rarely seen in reality. Chaucer's Knight embodies all these virtues and
is called perfect by him. He is a great soldier who has been on many campaigns, but he is also wise
and honourable. He inspires others to follow his example.

The Knight's clothing is simple, showing his professionalism and sincerity. He does not care about
looking fancy like some other pilgrims. The marks of his armour on his clothes show that he is an
active soldier but also sincere in his religious pursuit of spiritual growth. He went straight for the
pilgrimage as soon as he returned from the wars, showing that he took his religious duty seriously.
Unlike some other knights of his time, Chaucer does not make fun of the Knight. Instead, he presents
him as an ideal representation of chivalry, one of the few remaining examples of the old order.

Despite his elevated position, the knight is also filled with humility. He does not participate in the
quarrelling or complaining, nor does he condemn it. Although he has distinguished himself several
times in battle, he never talks about his brave and valorous deeds. He is completely satisfied with his
station in life and is courteous to the other pilgrims without becoming friendly with them.

NAME: KIRTIKA
CLASS: 1B
ROLL.NO: 23/0673