The Canterbury Tales Notes

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The Canterbury Tales is a collection of stories written by Geoffrey Chaucer in the 14th century. The tales are told by a group of pilgrims who are on a journey to Canterbury Cathedral. Each pilgrim tells a story as they travel, and the tales cover a wide range of genres, including romance, satire, and religious allegory.



One of the most famous tales is "The Knight's Tale," which tells the story of two knights who are in love with the same woman. The knights, Palamon and Arcite, are both imprisoned and decide to fight a tournament to win the lady's hand. In the end, Palamon wins, but the lady's beauty ultimately leads to their downfall.


Another well-known tale is "The Wife of Bath's Tale," in which a knight must find out what women most desire in order to win back his freedom. The knight ultimately learns that women most desire sovereignty over their own lives and relationships.


Chaucer's writing is notable for its use of Middle English, which was the language spoken in England at the time. He is also known for his use of satire and his ability to create characters that are both realistic and larger than life. The Canterbury Tales is considered one of the greatest works of literature in English and has been widely translated and adapted for stage and screen.


Overall, The Canterbury Tales is a classic work of literature that has stood the test of time. Its themes of love, betrayal, and human nature are still relevant today, and Chaucer's storytelling ability continues to captivate readers.

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