THE PRIORESS| PROLOGUE TO THE CANTERBURY TALES by GEOFFREY CHAUCER

All time English poetry for students and literature lovers| explanation and analysis | easy and simple paraphrasing
One of the most iconic poet in English literature is Geoffrey Chaucer was the outstanding English poet before Shakespeare and “the first finder of our language.” His The Canterbury Tales ranks as one of the greatest poetic works in English. He also contributed importantly in the second half of the 14th century to the management of public affairs as a courtier,

His seamless blend of the literal and figurative lends his work a timeless quality, securing his place in the pantheon of American poets.
#teaching poetry
#poem in English for students# English romantic poetry #poetry in English literature #romantic poetry in English literature# a short English poem# famous poem in english literature Perhaps the chief characteristics of Chaucer’s works are their variety in subject matter, genre, tone, and style and in the complexities presented concerning the human pursuit of a sensible existence.
Chaucer does not have any particular individual in
mind but casts the Knight as an idealistic
representative of his profession. • Although the institution of chivalry had become
decadent in the fourteenth century Chaucer
withholds his criticism and instead endows the Knight
with all the gentlemanly qualities that are in keeping
with his character.
The Knight's ascetic clothing thus stands to his credit
and highlights his integrity and honor.
Chaucer also describes the Knight's participation in
several battles and campaigns.
Scholars have pointed out that the majority of the
Knight's campaigns are religious in nature and are by
and large crusades against the heathens
Thus the Knight possesses all the traditional chivalric
virtues of politeness in speech, consideration for
others, righteousness, generosity, helpfulness, and
loyalty.
He also loves truth, honor, freedom, and courtesy.
Moreover he is not only brave and worthy but also
wise. Although the Knight rides on a good horse, he isn't
ostentatiously dressed himself.
He has come straight from his expedition and is still
wearing his armor.
His simple coarse sleeveless tunic made out of fustian
bears the stains of his armor.
This minute detail serves to impart a certain degree
of realism to the portrait and also serves to underline
the Knight's religious devotion and his eagerness to
go on the pilgrimage.