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1392
1392 · Geoffrey Chaucer · England
The Canterbury Tales
PoetryNarrativeSatire Essential Medieval & Islamic
A collection of interconnected stories told by pilgrims journeying to the shrine of Thomas Becket at Canterbury. Chaucer presents a panoramic view of medieval English society through diverse voices, from knights to servants.
Literary Significance
Canterbury Tales is a groundbreaking work of English literature that captured the full spectrum of medieval society and elevated the English language to literary prominence. It pioneered the social novel centuries before the form was formalized.
Historical Context
Written after Chaucer's career as diplomat and court poet, Canterbury Tales reflects the declining feudal order and the emerging middle class consciousness of late 14th-century England.