Chaucer's Works and Canterbury Tales Overview
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following characters had a strong affinity for gold?

  • John of Gatesden
  • The Wife of Bath
  • The apothecary (correct)
  • The old physicians

What did the Wife of Bath excel in compared to other women in her parish?

  • Travelling to Jerusalem
  • Embroidering hats
  • Cloth making
  • Making offerings at mass (correct)

What aspect of the Wife of Bath's appearance is specifically noted?

  • Her hair was long and flowing
  • She wore a plain dress
  • She had a small stature
  • She had a wide gap in her teeth (correct)

Which of the following places did the Wife of Bath NOT visit?

<p>Paris (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant characteristic of the apothecary?

<p>He profits from cheating. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is referred to as the 'father of English poetry'?

<p>Geoffrey Chaucer (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which poetic form did Chaucer first use in 'The Legends of Good Women'?

<p>Heroic Couplet (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the number 21 in 'The Canterbury Tales'?

<p>It refers to the number of pilgrims described. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature of 'Troilus and Cressida' according to literary scholars?

<p>It is referred to as a novel in verse. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who praised Chaucer for having left behind a dialect and established it as a language?

<p>Lowes (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which structure does 'Rhyme Royal' consist of?

<p>Seven lines in an ABAB BCC rhyme scheme (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the general prologue to 'The Canterbury Tales' considered significant?

<p>It represents a blend of realism and narrative. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What term is used to describe Chaucer's influence on modern literature?

<p>Grandfather of English Novel (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary accomplishment of the knight described in the text?

<p>He engaged in 15 battles for Christianity. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about the squire's character based on the description?

<p>He was interested in winning the favor of women. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the yeoman's appearance?

<p>He had a green coat and carried a bow. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one characteristic of the prioress in the text?

<p>She exhibited compassion towards animals. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the monk view the traditional rules of his order?

<p>He believed they were outdated and unnecessary. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of the nun's behavior is highlighted in the text?

<p>She demonstrated proper table manners. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What talent does the squire exhibit that sets him apart from his peers?

<p>He has the ability to compose and perform music. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What item is the yeoman specifically noted to carry?

<p>A collection of arrows. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which emotional response does the prioress exhibit towards animals?

<p>She feels deep sadness for their pain. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the description of the knight suggest about his social standing?

<p>He held a high rank and was respected. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the prioress's brooch inscribed with 'Amor vincit Omnia'?

<p>It signifies her preference for romantic ideals over spiritual ones. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the monk's lifestyle contrast with traditional monastic expectations?

<p>He enjoys hunting and riding instead of solitude. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What personal trait is associated with the yeoman in the text?

<p>His expertise in archery and woodcraft. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the knight's armor is noted about his attire?

<p>He wore armor over stained and damaged clothing. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who wrote 'The Regiment of Princess' in memory of Chaucer?

<p>Occleve (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is rhyme royal?

<p>A 7-line stanza rhyming ababbcc (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which character is NOT criticized or satirized in The Canterbury Tales?

<p>Knight (A), Parson (B), Plowman (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant work did James I of Scotland write utilizing rhyme royal?

<p>The Kingis Quair (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was Chaucer's professional role around the time he began writing The Canterbury Tales?

<p>Officer of customs (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the planned number of stories in The Canterbury Tales?

<p>120 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which work did Chaucer first use rhyme royal?

<p>The Complaint unto Pity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following characters is classified as a member of the clergy in The Canterbury Tales?

<p>Monk (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which pilgrim carried palm branches and was often referred to as Palmers?

<p>Pilgrims going to Canterbury (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'sweet showers of April' refer to in Chaucer's work?

<p>The end of winter (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What genre does the work 'The Book of the Duchess' belong to?

<p>Allegorical poem (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following Tales is written in heroic couplet?

<p>The Canterbury Tales (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the inn where Chaucer stayed before the pilgrimage?

<p>Tabard Inn (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is referred to as the 'Prince of Plagiarists'?

<p>Chaucer (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a notable characteristic of the Friar's financial practices?

<p>He often collected bribes from sinners. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the Merchant's outward appearance contrast with his financial situation?

<p>He had a lavish appearance but was in significant debt. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the preferred subject of the Clerk of Oxford?

<p>Philosophy (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following traits described the Sergeant at Law?

<p>He was immensely knowledgeable and successful. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the Franklin's lifestyle reflected his character?

<p>He hosted extravagant meals and valued hospitality. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a group characteristic of the guild men depicted by Chaucer?

<p>They wore impressive and new uniforms. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the Cook's known specialty?

<p>He made good thick soup. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinctive skill did the Shipman possess?

<p>He was an expert in maritime navigation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a notable aspect of the Doctor of Medicine's practice?

<p>He prescribed treatments based on the positions of the stars. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did the Clerk of Oxford primarily seek from his friends?

<p>Borrowing money for books. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What quality characterized the persona of the Friar?

<p>He was known for his music and joviality. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the Shipman's appearance reflect his lifestyle?

<p>He wore coarse clothing, befitting a seafarer. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What relationship did the Guild Men have with their wives regarding their status?

<p>Their wives believed they deserved titles of nobility. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was characteristic of the Franklin's food preparation?

<p>His cook was held to strict standards. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Who is Aesculapius?

An ancient Greek god of medicine, associated with healing and physicians.

What was the Wife of Bath known for besides her marriages?

The Wife of Bath was known for her skill in cloth making, surpassing even the famous cloth makers of Ypres and Gaunt.

Describe the Wife of Bath's Sunday outfit.

The Wife of Bath's attire was extravagant, especially her head covering on Sundays. It was heavily embroidered and weighed 10 pounds.

Where had the Wife of Bath traveled to?

The Wife of Bath had been to many places, including Jerusalem, Rome, Boulogne, and Santiago de Compostela in Spain, gaining knowledge through her travels.

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What was a physical characteristic of the Wife of Bath?

The Wife of Bath had a gap in her front teeth, which was considered attractive in her time.

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Who is considered the 'father of English poetry'?

Geoffrey Chaucer, an English poet, often called the 'father of English poetry' and the 'grandfather of English novel', influenced greatly by Italian writers like Boccaccio and Petrarch.

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What is Chaucer's "Troilus and Cressida" known for?

Chaucer's "Troilus and Cressida" is considered a novel in verse, showcasing his innovative use of rhyme royal, a seven-line stanza with a specific rhyme scheme (ABAB BCC).

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What is Chaucer's significance in the development of English literature?

Chaucer was a prominent figure in the Middle Ages, recognized as a pioneer in establishing a language and literary style that laid the foundation for modern English literature.

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What is the inspiration and key element of 'Canterbury Tales'?

Inspired by Boccaccio's "Decameron", Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" features a group of diverse pilgrims going on a pilgrimage, providing a colorful representation of medieval English society.

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What is a notable poetic form used by Chaucer?

Chaucer introduced the use of the heroic couplet, a ten-syllable line rhyming in pairs, in his "Legends of Good Women", showcasing his mastery of poetic form.

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What did Dryden say about Chaucer's work?

Dryden, a later English poet, praised Chaucer's work, acknowledging his genius even if needing polishing. He famously said, "Here is God's plenty", emphasizing Chaucer's rich vocabulary and storytelling.

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How did Petrarch influence Chaucer's "Troilus and Cressida"?

In "Troilus and Cressida", Chaucer draws influences from Petrarch, a renowned Italian poet, showcasing his knowledge and appreciation of European literature.

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What is the impact of Chaucer's work on the English language?

"Chaucer found his native tongue a dialect and left it a language." This quote emphasizes Chaucer's significant contribution to standardizing the English language, paving the way for modern English.

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The Franciscan Friar

A Franciscan friar who is kind, listens to confessions, and is generous with penance.

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The Friar's Musical Skills

The friar is described as being skilled in music, a good singer, and a talented harpist.

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The Friar's Begging Skills

The friar is a skilled beggar, able to obtain goods and money even from those who are poor.

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The Merchant

The Merchant is a wealthy and successful businessman, known for his colorful attire and flamboyant personality.

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The Merchant's Hidden Debt

The Merchant is deeply in debt, though he projects an image of wealth and prosperity.

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The Clerk of Oxford

The Clerk of Oxford is a dedicated student of logic and philosophy, focusing more on his studies than wealth.

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The Clerk's Morality

The Clerk of Oxford is a sincere and moral individual, seeking knowledge and enlightenment above all else.

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The Sergeant at Law

The Sergeant at Law is a highly skilled and experienced lawyer, known for his wisdom and legal knowledge.

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The Franklin

The Franklin is a wealthy landowner, known for his love of fine food, drink, and hospitality.

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The Franklin's Status

The Franklin is a respected member of society, holding positions of power and influence, even in law courts.

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The Guild Men

The five guild members, the Haberdasher, Carpenter, Weaver, Dyer, and Upholsterer, are a group of prosperous and well-respected businessmen.

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The Cook

The Cook is a skilled professional who specializes in cooking delicious meals, including various dishes like chicken with marrow bones and thick soup.

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The Shipman

The Shipman is a skilled mariner, experienced in navigation, handling ships, and navigating various seaports.

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The Doctor of Medicine

The Doctor of Medicine is a highly skilled physician who uses his knowledge of astronomy and humoral theory to diagnose and treat illnesses.

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Scottish Chaucerians

A group of Scottish courtly poets who flourished between 1425 and 1550, known for their elegant and sophisticated style.

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Makaris

Another name for Scottish Chaucerians, meaning "makers" or "poets."

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Rhyme Royal

A 7-line decasyllabic stanza with an ABABBCC rhyme scheme, first used by Chaucer in "Complaint unto Pity."

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The Canterbury Tales

The famous work of Chaucer, a collection of tales told by a group of pilgrims traveling to Canterbury.

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April

The pilgrimage month for the characters in "The Canterbury Tales."

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Tabard Inn

The inn where the pilgrims meet before their journey to Canterbury.

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Prologue

A section of the "General Prologue" of "The Canterbury Tales" describing the pilgrims' appearances and personalities.

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Narrator

A character in "The Canterbury Tales" who narrates the story and is a participant in the pilgrimage.

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Host

The character responsible for organizing the pilgrimage, often referred to as "Harry Bailey."

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Heroic Couplet

The poetic form used by Chaucer in "The Canterbury Tales."

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Knight, Parson, Clerk, Plowman

Characters in "The Canterbury Tales" who are praised and not satirized by Chaucer, reflecting positive values.

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Scottish Chaucerian Movement

The literary movement in which the Scottish Chaucerians participated, marked by the imitation of Chaucer's style and themes. It was vibrant between 1425 and 1550.

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Knight

A character in "The Canterbury Tales" who exemplifies the values of chivalry, truth, honor, freedom, and courtesy.

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Knight's Tale

One of the Canterbury Tales, narrating the story of a noble and virtuous knight.

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Octosyllabic Couplets

A poetic form commonly used by Chaucer, consisting of octosyllabic couplets, which feature eight syllables per line.

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The Knight: A Warrior's Legacy

The Knight was a distinguished warrior recognized for his bravery and honor in battles across Europe and the Middle East. Known for his unwavering leadership and consistent victories, he embodies chivalry and military prowess.

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The Squire: A Knight in the Making

The Knight's squire, a young and enthusiastic man, eager to learn the ways of chivalry. He was skilled in horse riding and combat, and his youthful exuberance made him a promising knight-in-training.

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The Yeoman: A Skilled Companion

The Yeoman, a skilled archer and woodcraft expert, served as the Knight's faithful companion. He was a practical and resourceful man, adept at hunting and survival.

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The Prioress: A Virtuous Lady

The Prioress was a woman of high standing in the Church, known for her piety and grace. She was deeply compassionate, especially towards animals, and possessed a refined sense of etiquette.

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The Monk: A Worldly Leader

The Monk was a leader of his monastery, but he favored a more worldly lifestyle, indulging in hunting and fine dining. He disregarded strict religious rules, seeking a more pleasurable existence.

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The Friar: A Charming Influence

The Friar, a man of charisma and social adeptness, used his position within the Church to gain favor and influence. He was known for his flattering ways and his ability to connect with people of all social ranks.

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The Knight's Modesty

The Knight was a humble and modest figure, Despite his achievements, he was not boastful or arrogant, exuding a natural sense of humility and respect for others.

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The Squire's Love

The Squire, while young and full of life, expressed his love for his lady with heartfelt affection. His devotion to her was evident in his actions and his constant thoughts.

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Yeoman's Devotion

The Yeoman was portrayed as a devout man, carrying with him a silver medal of St. Christopher, the patron saint of field sports. This reflected his reverence for nature and his reliance on divine protection.

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The Prioress's Compassion

The Prioress, despite her refined ways, exhibited a deep compassion for living creatures. This is shown through her tears when witnessing the suffering of a mouse, reflecting a sensitive and caring nature.

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The Monk's Modern Views

The Monk's disregard for the traditional monastic rules, particularly those emphasizing study and manual labor, reflects his preference for a more luxurious and comfortable life. He prioritizes pleasure over traditional religious duties.

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The Friar's Worldliness

The Friar, despite his role within the Church, was described as a 'wanton' and happy fellow, who was not averse to worldly pleasures. His commitment to religious principles seems more about social connections and enjoying good living.

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The Prioress's Elegant Attire

The Prioress’s elegance and grace extended to her attire. Her careful attention to her appearance suggests a mindfulness of societal expectations and her desire to maintain a dignified image.

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The Monk's Worldly Passions

The Monk’s disregard for the traditional monastic rules, particularly those emphasizing study and manual labor, reflects his preference for a more luxurious and comfortable life. He prioritizes pleasure over traditional religious duties.

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The Friar's Master of Flattery

The Friar's preference for social connections over religious duty is further highlighted by his mastery of flattery. His ability to charm and influence people suggests a shrewd understanding of human motivations and a desire to cultivate relationships for personal gain.

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Study Notes

Chaucer's Works and Influences

  • Chaucer's works are categorized into French, Italian, and English groups.
  • The Canterbury Tales is a significant English work influenced by Boccaccio's Decameron.
  • The Canterbury Tales has approximately 17,000 lines.
  • It details a pilgrimage of 32 characters (29 pilgrims plus the narrator and host) to Canterbury to honor Saint Thomas Becket.
  • The journey, which takes place in April, begins at the Tabard Inn in South Wark.
  • Chaucer, within the story, provides descriptions of 27 pilgrims, detailing their attire and professions.
  • The tales were planned to include 120 stories, but only 24 were completed.
  • The Knight's Tale is the longest tale within Canterbury Tales.
  • Troilus and Cressida is considered a novel in verse form.
  • Chaucer's use of rhyme royal, a seven line stanza (ABABBC), pioneered in Troilus and Cressida as well as Anelida and Arcite and The Parliament of Fowls.
  • Chaucer's use of heroic couplet, a ten-syllable rhyme, is first seen in The Legend of Good Women.
  • He also utilized ottava rima, an eight-syllable couplet rhyme, initially in The Book of the Duchess.
  • Chaucer introduced the concept of "Felicity" to English literature
  • Dryden referred to Chaucer as "the father of English poetry".
  • Long called the prologue to the Tales, "the prologue to modern fiction.".
  • Boccaccio profoundly influenced Chaucer.
  • Chaucer is considered the morning star of the English Renaissance.
  • Chaucer is considered a precursor to the English novel.

Chaucer's Pilgrims

  • The Canterbury Tales features diverse characters from different social classes, including nobility, clergy, and commoners.
  • Criticism suggests that Chaucer primarily focuses on the upper classes while overlooking the struggles of the poor.
  • Some notable pilgrims, are not satirized by Chaucer: The Knight, the Parson, the Clerk, and the Plowman.
  • The Clergy is represented by figures such as the Prioress, the Parson, the Friar, and the Monk.
  • The General Prologue includes 858 lines describing the different pilgrims.

Scottish Chaucerians

  • The Scottish Chaucerians, referred to as "Makaris," were court poets active between 1425 and 1550.
  • Key figures include Robert Henryson, William Dunbar, Gavin Douglas, and David Lyndsay.
  • James I of Scotland and Harry the Minstrel are also sometimes included in this group.

Details about specific Pilgrims

  • (Specific descriptions of the Knight, Squire, Yeoman, Nun Prioress, Monk, Friar, Merchant, Clerk, Sergeant at Law, Franklin, Guildsmen, Cook, Shipman, Doctor of Medicine, Wife of Bath, given in the original text are included as separate bullet points)*

About Chaucer

  • Chaucer transitioned English from a dialect to a language, according to Lowes.
  • Chaucer died in 1400, the same year as Langland.

Other Notable Details

  • The House of Fame shares stylistic and thematic similarities with Dante's Divine Comedy.
  • Edmund Spenser, in his Faerie Queene, called Chaucer "a well of English undefiled."
  • W. J. Long, in his analysis of the Canterbury tales, referred to the introduction as ‘the prologue of the modern fiction’.
  • Nevill Coghill produced a 20th-century translation of The Canterbury Tales.
  • "Here is God's plenty" is a quote attributed to Dryden, regarding Chaucer.

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Explore the significant works of Geoffrey Chaucer, focusing on The Canterbury Tales and its influences. This quiz covers the structure, characters, and themes present in Chaucer’s writings, highlighting the connections to French and Italian literature. Test your knowledge on the details of this iconic literary work and its contributions to English literature.

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