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Geoffery Chaucer
Between 1340-1344:He was born
in London, the son of John Chaucer, a vintner.
1357: He served in the household of Prince Lionel, later duke of Clarence,
for many years.
1359-60: Chaucer was captured by the French while serving in Edward III's army, but was laterd ransomed.
1366: He had married the sister of John of Gaunt's third wife, Philippa Roet.
From 1370 to 1378: Chaucer was
employed on diplomatic missions to the Continent, visiting Italy in 1372-73 and in 1378.
1374+: He held a number of
official positions, among them head of customs on furs, skins, and hides for the port of London
(1374-86) and clerk of
the king's works
The official date of Chaucer's death is Oct. 25, 1400. He was buried in Westminster Abbey.
The Canterbury Tales
The Canterbury Tales (written mostly after 1387). This unfinished poem is said to be one of the brilliant
sorces of literature. The poem is a story of group of pilgrims journeying from London to the shrine of St. Thomas a Becket
at Canterbury. To help pass the time they decide to tell stories. Where the most interesting story wins a free meal. The prilgrims
are to represent the different lives in the 14 century.
The pilgrims' tales include a variety of themes and topics that
indicated medieval attitudes and customs in such areas as love, marriage, and religion. Through Chaucer's superb powers of
characterization the pilgrims-such as the earthy wife of Bath, the gentle knight, the worldly prioress, the evil summoner-come
intensely alive.
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