UNIVERSITY OF PUNJAB,

GUJRANWALA CAMPUS.

BS ENGLISH SEMESTER 1
(AFTERNOON)

INTRODUCTION TO LITERARY STUDIES

MAM TAQDEES HAIDER SHERAZI

THE CANTEBURY TALES

BY: GEOFFERY CHAUCER

INTRODUCTION:
"The Canterbury Tales" by Geoffrey Chaucer is a seminal work of
medieval English literature, composed in the late 14th century. It is a collection of
stories framed within a narrative structure that captures the essence of a diverse
society embarking on a pilgrimage to the shrine of St. Thomas Becket in
Canterbury. Chaucer, often referred to as the "father of English poetry," wrote these
tales in Middle English, contributing significantly to the development of the English
language.

Historical and Cultural Context: Set against the backdrop of the

tumultuous 14th century, a period marked by social upheaval, religious fervor, and
the aftermath of the Black Death, The Canterbury Tales provides a snapshot of
medieval England. Chaucer's work reflects the dynamic shifts in the social
hierarchy, the influence of the Church, and the emergence of a nascent middle
class.

Structure: The Canterbury Tales employs a unique frame narrative. A group

of pilgrims assembles at the Tabard Inn in Southwark, London, before embarking on
a pilgrimage to Canterbury. To pass the time during the journey, the innkeeper
proposes a storytelling competition, wherein each pilgrim will tell two tales on the
way to Canterbury and two on the way back. The pilgrim with the best tale, as
judged by the host, will receive a free dinner upon their return.

Literary Legacy: The Canterbury Tales stands as a cornerstone of English

literature. Chaucer's use of the vernacular, rather than Latin, was revolutionary,
contributing to the evolution of English as a literary language. The work has
influenced subsequent generations of writers and remains a subject of scholarly
study, appreciated for its rich characterization, narrative innovation, and social
commentary.

Frame Narrative: At the heart of "The Canterbury Tales" is the concept of a

frame narrative—a storytelling structure in which a larger narrative encompasses
individual tales. In this case, a diverse group of pilgrims gathers at the Tabard Inn in
Southwark, preparing to embark on a pilgrimage to the shrine of Thomas Becket in
Canterbury. To pass the time on their journey, the Host, Harry Bailey, suggests a
storytelling competition, wherein each pilgrim will tell two tales on the way to
Canterbury and two on the return journey. This framing device not only provides a
structure for the collection but also serves as a microcosm of medieval society. The
characters represent a cross-section of social classes, from the nobility to the
working class, offering Chaucer a canvas on which to paint a vivid portrait of the
diversity and complexity of English society. Chaucer's decision to write "The
Canterbury Tales" in Middle English instead of Latin or French was groundbreaking.
This choice democratized literature, making it accessible to a broader audience. By
using the vernacular, Chaucer not only contributed to the development of the
English language but also reflected the changing linguistic landscape of his time.
 THEME:
"The Canterbury Tales" is a literary work rich in thematic depth,
exploring various aspects of human nature, morality, and society. Through
the diverse tales told by a group of pilgrims on their way to Canterbury,
Chaucer weaves together a tapestry of themes that reflect the complexities
and contradictions of medieval England.

1. Satire and Critique:

 Chaucer uses satire to criticize and expose the shortcomings of

different societal elements. The satire is often directed at the Church,
the nobility, and various social institutions. The tales serve as a vehicle
for Chaucer to comment on the moral and ethical shortcomings of the
characters and, by extension, the society they represent.

2. Social Critique:

 The pilgrims in "The Canterbury Tales" represent a cross-section of

medieval society, ranging from the noble Knight to the common
Plowman. Through their tales, Chaucer comments on the rigid social
hierarchy, exploring the lives, values, and flaws of individuals from
various classes. This social critique highlights the inequalities and
challenges of Chaucer's time.

3. Diversity of Human Experience:

 The wide range of tales, from courtly romances to bawdy fabliaux,

showcases the diversity of human experiences and perspectives.
Chaucer presents a mosaic of tales that touch on universal themes
such as love, jealousy, greed, and honor. The collection reflects the
multiplicity of human existence, transcending the boundaries of class
and status.

4. Corruption in the Church:

 Several tales, particularly those of the Pardoner and the Summoner,

explicitly address the corruption within the medieval Church. Chaucer
criticizes the moral decay and hypocrisy of some clergy members,
using the tales to underscore the need for reform within religious
institutions.

5. Irony and Ambiguity:

  Chaucer employs irony and ambiguity throughout the tales, adding
layers of complexity to the narratives. Characters often say one thing
but mean another, and their actions may contradict their words. This
use of irony invites readers to question the sincerity and authenticity of
the characters, adding depth to the exploration of human nature.

6. Love and Relationships:

 Love is a recurring theme in many of the tales. Whether portrayed in

courtly love or in more realistic, earthy terms, Chaucer examines the
complexities of romantic relationships. The Wife of Bath's Tale, for
example, challenges traditional views of marriage and explores the
dynamics of power between spouses.

7. Chivalry and Honor:

 The Knight's Tale embodies the ideals of chivalry, exploring themes of

honor, friendship, and courtly love. Chaucer presents an idealized
version of noble conduct while also subtly critiquing the sometimes
unrealistic and impractical aspects of the chivalric code.

8. Moral and Ethical Dilemmas:

 Many of the tales pose moral and ethical dilemmas for the characters,
forcing them to confront difficult choices. The stories often reveal the
consequences of actions, providing moral lessons that resonate
beyond the medieval context.

9. Pilgrimage and Redemption:

 The overarching narrative of the pilgrimage itself serves as a metaphor

for the spiritual journey and the quest for redemption. Pilgrimage was
a significant aspect of medieval religious life, and Chaucer explores the
transformative potential of the pilgrimage experience for the
characters.

10. Fate and Fortune:

 Several tales, including the Man of Law's Tale and the Knight's Tale,
touch on the themes of fate and fortune. Chaucer examines the
unpredictable nature of life, where individuals may rise or fall based on
circumstances beyond their control.
 SUMMARY:
"The Canterbury Tales" is a narrative framed within a narrative, consisting of
a collection of stories told by a diverse group of pilgrims during their journey
to the shrine of Thomas Becket in Canterbury. The pilgrims, brought together
at the Tabard Inn in Southwark by the Host, Harry Bailey, decide to engage
in a storytelling competition to pass the time on their pilgrimage. Each
pilgrim is to tell two tales on the way to Canterbury and two on the way
back, with the Host serving as the judge, and the winner promised a free
meal upon their return.

The pilgrims represent a cross-section of medieval English society, ranging

from the nobility to the working class. As they begin their journey, each
pilgrim takes their turn to share a tale, creating a rich mosaic of genres,
themes, and perspectives.

1. The Knight’s Tale:

 The Knight tells a tale of two cousins, Palamon and Arcite, who fall in
love with the same woman, Emily. Their love leads to a tragic conflict,
involving a jousting tournament, divine intervention, and a complex
exploration of fate and free will.
2. The Miller’s Tale:
 The Miller, a bawdy and irreverent character, tells a comic and farcical
tale of infidelity involving a carpenter, his young wife Alison, and a
clever student named Nicholas. The tale is marked by physical humor,
deception, and a chaotic love triangle.
3. The Wife of Bath’s Tale:
 The Wife of Bath, a bold and worldly woman, shares a tale that
challenges conventional views of women and marriage. The narrative
revolves around a knight who must discover what women most desire
to avoid his own demise.
4. The Pardoner’s Tale:
 The Pardoner, a corrupt clergyman, tells a moral allegory about the
destructive power of greed. Three young men set out to find Death but
encounter treachery and moral decay instead.
5. The Nun’s Priest’s Tale:
 The Nun’s Priest, telling a lively tale, narrates the story of a rooster
named Chaunticleer who dreams of a fox. The tale is a blend of fable,
satire, and an exploration of human folly.
6. The Franklin’s Tale:
 The Franklin tells a romance about generosity and the resolution of a
love triangle. The tale explores themes of love, trust, and the
consequences of rash promises.
7. The Physician’s Tale:
 The Physician tells a tragic tale of the patient Griselda, who endures
extreme suffering and tests of loyalty at the hands of her husband, a
marquis. The tale explores the virtue of patience.
8. The Prioress’s Tale:
 The Prioress tells a story about a young Christian boy who is murdered
by Jews for singing a hymn in praise of the Virgin Mary. The tale
reflects anti-Semitic sentiments prevalent in medieval Europe.
9. The Shipman’s Tale:
 The Shipman tells a tale of a cunning wife and her lover, who outsmart
her jealous husband. The story explores themes of deception and
cleverness.
10. The Pardoner’s Prologue and Tale (Second Tale):
 The Pardoner delivers a sermon on the vices of gluttony, drunkenness,
gambling, and swearing before telling a tale that underscores the
dangers of avarice.

Throughout the tales, Chaucer employs various literary styles and

genres, from courtly romance to moral fable, providing readers with a
comprehensive view of medieval literature. The narratives also serve as a
reflection of the characters' personalities, values, and social positions.

The collection, while incomplete, remains a masterpiece of medieval

literature, offering a unique glimpse into the social, cultural, and moral
landscape of Chaucer's time. The diversity of tales and characters, combined
with Chaucer's wit and insight, continues to make "The Canterbury Tales" a
timeless and influential work in the canon of English literature. These are just
a few examples of the tales told by the pilgrims. Unfortunately, the collection
remains unfinished, with only 24 out of the projected 120 tales completed.
The work concludes with a retraction by Chaucer, expressing regret for any
offense caused by the tales and asking for the reader's prayers.

In essence, "The Canterbury Tales" is a literary exploration of the

human condition, employing a variety of themes to paint a nuanced portrait
of medieval society. Through satire, critique, and a diverse array of
narratives, Chaucer invites readers to reflect on the timeless aspects of
human nature and the challenges inherent in navigating a complex and ever-
changing world.

CHARACTERS:
 The characters in The Canterbury Tales are a microcosm of
medieval society. They include the noble Knight, the bawdy Miller, the
Prioress, the Wife of Bath, the Pardoner, and many others. Each character is
carefully crafted to represent a specific social class, profession, or
personality type. Through their interactions and stories, Chaucer provides a
multifaceted view of the human experience.
Following are the main characters of The Canterbury Tales:

1. The Knight:
 Description: A noble and chivalrous man who fought in many battles.
He is honorable, humble, and the highest in social rank among the
pilgrims.
 Role: Represents the ideal of medieval chivalry.
2. The Miller:
 Description: A brawny and vulgar man who works as a miller. He tells a
ribald and humorous tale.
 Role: Represents the lower class and provides comic relief.
3. The Wife of Bath:
 Description: A confident and worldly woman with a colorful past. She is
well-traveled and outspoken about relationships.
 Role: Represents the independent and assertive woman of medieval
times.
4. The Pardoner:
 Description: A clergyman who sells indulgences. He is morally corrupt
and tells a tale about the consequences of greed.
 Role: Represents the corruption within the Church.
5. The Nun (Prioress):
 Description: A nun who is refined, compassionate, and cares for
animals. She speaks French and is concerned with etiquette.
 Role: Represents the religious class and critiques the Church's
decadence.
6. The Franklin:
 Description: A wealthy landowner who loves food and hospitality. He is
generous and lives for pleasure.
 Role: Represents the landowning class.
7. The Reeve:
 Description: A shrewd and dishonest estate manager. He is adept at
manipulating his lord and tells a story of clever revenge.
 Role: Represents the skilled working class.
8. The Summoner:
 Description: An official of the ecclesiastical courts who is corrupt and
immoral. He has a fiery temper.
 Role: Represents the corruption within the Church and the legal
system.
9. The Host (Harry Bailey):
 Description: The owner of the Tabard Inn who proposes the storytelling
competition. He is lively and good-humored.
 Role: Facilitates the storytelling competition.
10. The Clerk:
 Description: A poor scholar who is dedicated to learning. He tells a
tragic tale about patient Griselda.
 Role: Represents the impoverished intelligentsia.
11. The Man of Law:
 Description: A lawyer who is wise and judicious. He tells a tale about a
just and merciful Christian ruler.
 Role: Represents the legal profession.
12. The Squire:
 Description: The young and handsome son of the Knight. He is
courteous, loves poetry, and is a skilled horseman.
 Role: Represents youthful idealism.
13. The Merchant:
 Description: A shrewd and wealthy businessman. He is well-dressed
but in debt.
 Role: Represents the emerging middle class.
14. The Monk:
 Description: A monk who prefers hunting and luxurious living to a
monastic life. He is fat and worldly.
 Role: Represents the corruption within the Church.
15. The Shipman:
 Description: A sailor who is experienced and knowledgeable. He steals
wine while in charge of a ship.
 Role: Represents the seafaring class.
16. The Physician:
 Description: A doctor who is well-educated and wealthy. He is
interested in astronomy and is discreet about his own vices.
 Role: Represents the medical profession.
17. The Plowman:
 Description: The brother of the Parson, he is a hardworking and honest
laborer.
 Role: Represents the virtuous laboring class.
18. The Parson:
 Description: A devout and humble clergyman who preaches poverty
and piety. He is the ideal religious figure.
 Role: Represents the virtuous clergy.
19. The Manciple:
 Description: A shrewd and frugal buyer for a law court. Despite being
uneducated, he outsmarts the learned lawyers.
 Role: Represents cleverness in the lower classes.
20. The Nun's Priest:
 Description: The chaplain of the Prioress. He tells a lively tale about a
rooster named Chaunticleer.
 Role: Represents the clergy and contributes to the collection's humor.
 SIGNIFICANCE:
The overarching lesson in "The Canterbury Tales" revolves around the
recognition of shared humanity and the acceptance of diversity. Chaucer,
through the interactions and tales of the pilgrims, encourages readers to
appreciate the complexities, virtues, and flaws of individuals from different
social classes, occupations, and backgrounds. The pilgrimage becomes a
metaphorical journey not only to Canterbury but towards understanding,
tolerance, and empathy.

Key Components of the Lesson:

1. Common Humanity:
 Despite the vast differences among the pilgrims, Chaucer emphasizes
their common humanity. Whether noble or common, religious or
secular, each character faces universal challenges, desires, and moral
dilemmas. This underscores the idea that, at the core, people share
fundamental human experiences.
2. Diversity and Acceptance:
 The diverse group of pilgrims serves as a microcosm of medieval
society. Chaucer's portrayal of this diversity encourages readers to
appreciate the complexity of human nature and to recognize the
validity of various perspectives. The tales, spanning different genres
and tones, showcase the richness of human storytelling and
expression.
3. Critique of Social Hierarchies:
 Chaucer's satire and critique of the Church, nobility, and other social
institutions challenge the rigid hierarchies of medieval society.
Through the tales, he questions the established norms and encourages
readers to question and analyze the moral and ethical foundations of
their own society.
4. Moral Reflection:
 Many of the tales present moral and ethical dilemmas for the
characters, prompting readers to reflect on their own values and
beliefs. The diverse moral lessons embedded in the stories contribute
to a nuanced exploration of virtue and vice, right and wrong.
5. Tolerance and Understanding:
 The structure of the pilgrimage, where individuals from different walks
of life come together, implies a shared journey toward a common goal.
The tales told along the way provide opportunities for the characters to
understand one another, fostering a sense of tolerance and
interconnectedness.
CONCLUSION:
In conclusion, "The Canterbury Tales" leaves readers with
a call for introspection and understanding. It invites them to reflect
on the human condition, appreciate the diversity of experiences,
and recognize the potential for both humor and moral insight in the
stories we tell. The work's enduring appeal lies in its ability to
engage readers in a timeless conversation about the complexities of
humanity and the lessons embedded in the tales of Chaucer's
diverse pilgrims.

Submitted By:
 Aiman Anjum (BEN23203)
 Areej Ali Wahla (BEN23205)
 Minahil Boota (BEN23221)
 Qandeel Ashfaq (BEN23223)
 Ayesha Ahmad (BEN23232)
 Areeba Liaquat (BEN23240)
 Maryam Ghulam (BEN23244)

DATED: 27th November, 2023.