Chaucer's Canterbury Tales Overview

What is the main purpose of the tale-telling competition during the pilgrimage?

What distinguishes the social backgrounds of the pilgrims on their journey?

Who proposed the idea of the tale-telling competition among the pilgrims?

Which location marks the beginning of the pilgrimage?

How are the characters in the Canterbury Tales described?

What is the significance of the route the pilgrims take?

What type of narrative structure is used in the Canterbury Tales?

Which character is NOT mentioned as part of the pilgrims' roles?

How are the pilgrims depicted in Chaucer's work?

What modern approach does Chaucer use in his characterization?

Which of the following themes is NOT mentioned in relation to the tales?

How do the tales relate to one another?

What role does open dialogue play in the context of Chaucer's tales?

Structure and Setting

Tales feature interconnected narratives told by pilgrims on their journey to Canterbury.
The pilgrimage is to visit the shrine of Thomas Becket, who was murdered at Canterbury Cathedral.
Initiated by a General Prologue introducing each pilgrim, followed by individual prologues for their tales.
Harry Baily, the host, proposes a tale-telling competition to entertain the group during the journey.
Each pilgrim is to share two stories to Canterbury and two on the return, with a prize for the best tale.

Pilgrims represent diverse social classes, including military (Knight), clergy (Parson), and middle classes (Merchant, Doctor), but exclude the aristocracy and the poorest members.
Encountered by chance, the pilgrims are often ill-mannered and interrupt one another, highlighting social and personal differences.

Location Significance

The journey begins at The Tabard Inn in London, symbolizing pleasure and camaraderie of the time.
Destination, Canterbury Cathedral, represents holiness and the aspiration of the celestial city.

Characterization

Characters serve as archetypes from popular literature with unique personal traits.
Examples include the virtuous knight, domineering wife, libertine friar, elegant prioress, poor parson, and astute miller.
Physical descriptions, including clothing and tools, reflect social status and character traits.
Morality of characters is also depicted, showcasing their strengths and weaknesses.

Narrative Style

Chaucer provides a modern approach by suspending his judgment of characters, allowing readers to assess their merits.
Tales encompass a variety of themes such as love, marriage (notably in the Wife of Bath’s story), corruption, hypocrisy, and chivalry.
Arrangements of tales allow for contrasting perspectives, fostering dialogue among social classes, with no definitive conclusion to debates.

Explore the captivating narratives of Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales', where pilgrims share their stories on a journey to the shrine of Thomas Becket. Each tale is introduced by the host, Harry Baily, who fosters a competitive storytelling atmosphere. Delve into the themes and characters that define this classic work of literature.