Subject
Chaucer, Geoffrey, -1400 Books
Best books
Geoffrey Chaucer
The Canterbury Tales, and Other Poems
"The Canterbury Tales, and Other Poems" by Geoffrey Chaucer is a collection of stories written chiefly from 1387 to 1400. A group of pilgrims journey to Canterbury, each tasked with telling tales along the way. Held together by this frame story, the work remains unfinished—fewer than a quarter of the projected tales were completed before Chaucer's death. The intended order of the tales is uncertain, with various arrangements appearing across different manuscripts.
Grace E. (Grace Eleanor) Hadow
Chaucer and His Times
"Chaucer and His Times" by Grace E. Hadow is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work explores the life and context of Geoffrey Chaucer, one of the most significant poets in English literature, during the Middle Ages. The book delves into Chaucer's biography, his works, and the cultural and literary influences of the time, aiming to paint a vivid picture of the circumstances that shaped this iconic figure. The opening of the book discusses the complexities surrounding Chaucer's biography, highlighting the uncertainties regarding his origins and life events. It presents various scholarly viewpoints on Chaucer's background, hinting at a possible connection to a family of French descent. The initial chapter sets the tone for an exploration of his early life, educational experiences, and emerging career in the royal court, while also hinting at the rich influences from both the socio-political landscape and literary traditions of his time. Hadow aims to provide a thorough backdrop that illuminates Chaucer's contributions to poetry and his significance in the historical narrative of English literature.
James R. (James Root) Hulbert
Chaucer's Official Life
"Chaucer's Official Life" by James R. Hulbert is a historical account likely written in the early 20th century. This work investigates the significant yet often overlooked details of Geoffrey Chaucer's life, particularly focusing on his relationships and interactions within the English court, especially with influential figures such as John of Gaunt. The book aims to clarify the facts surrounding Chaucer's career and to dispel conjectures about his patronage that have permeated biographical accounts over the decades. The opening of the book sets the stage for a comprehensive examination of the rise of Chaucer through meticulous research and analysis of historical records. It begins with an acknowledgment of prior scholars' contributions while also signaling an intention to establish a more fact-based narrative of Chaucer's life. The introduction details the challenges faced in accurately ascertaining details about Chaucer’s appointments, financial rewards, and political ties, as well as the various official capacities he held throughout his career. Hulbert plans to offer a thorough evaluation by comparing Chaucer's experiences with those of his contemporaries to elucidate whether Chaucer's advancements were due to personal merit or the effects of favoritism stemming from his association with powerful patrons.
Unknown
Chaucerian and Other Pieces Being a Supplement to the Complete Works of Geoffrey Chaucer
"Chaucerian and Other Pieces" by Walter W. Skeat is a scholarly collection of medieval literary works written in the late 19th century. This volume serves as a supplement to Geoffrey Chaucer's complete works, bringing together various texts attributed to Chaucer and other contemporary poets, providing important context for the understanding of Middle English literature. It includes detailed introductions and notes that clarify authorship, historical significance, and textual history, making it a valuable resource for those interested in medieval English poetry and its contributors. The opening of this anthology sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of works appending Chaucer’s canon. It begins with a thorough introduction, outlining the structure of the collection and the variances in attribution throughout different historical editions of Chaucer's works. Skeat emphasizes the importance of discerning which texts are genuinely Chaucerian and analyzes the contributions of other writers, including Thomas Usk and John Gower, while also detailing the literary significance and thematic concerns of each included piece. This foundation helps contextualize the various texts in the broader medieval literary landscape, highlighting the intricacies of authorship and textual transmission during that period.
Adolphus William Ward
Chaucer
"Chaucer" by Sir Adolphus William Ward is a biographical essay written in the late 19th century. The work delves into the life and times of Geoffrey Chaucer, one of the most significant figures in English literature, examining the context in which he lived and created his poetry. The essay offers insights into Chaucer's character, his notable works, and the historical circumstances that influenced his writing. The opening of the essay presents an exploration of Chaucer's historical context, touching on the uncertainties surrounding the details of his life, such as his birth date and personal experiences. It underscores the challenges faced by scholars in piecing together a coherent biography due to the incomplete nature of the available records. Along with discussing the societal issues of Chaucer's time, such as the impacts of the plague and the evolving class structures in England, the introduction sets the stage for a thorough examination of the connections between Chaucer's works and the tumultuous period in which he lived, marking him as a central figure reflecting the complexities of 14th-century English society.
James Russell Lowell
My study windows
"My Study Windows" by James Russell Lowell is a collection of essays written in the late 19th century. The work draws from the author's reflections and experiences over a span of years, presenting a range of topics that encompass nature, literature, and personal musings. It hints at a thoughtful exploration of the beauty of the natural world, alongside cultural commentary, making it appealing for readers interested in nuanced observations about life and the environment. The opening of the book sets the stage with a prefatory note where Lowell introduces the collection, explaining that the essays included were composed over the last fifteen years. He expresses his intention to compile these writings as a means of 'shutting them between two covers' to make space for new thoughts. The initial essay, "My Garden Acquaintance," begins with the author reminiscing about the joy he found in reading Gilbert White's "Natural History of Selborne," drawing parallels between White's observations of nature and his own experiences. Lowell invokes a vivid portrayal of his garden and its inhabitants, offering insights into the interplay between humanity and nature, which will be a recurring theme throughout the collection.
Recently surfaced classics