Geoffrey Chaucer

written by Geoffrey Chaucer in late 1300s. Chaucer is knows as “The Father of English Poetry.”

the masterpiece of the Middle Ages. provides us with an accurate account of

Medieval England.

When King Henry was young, he was Thomas a Becket's best friend.

In the 12th century, the church ruled the country with great power and owned a large amount of land.

Did not suit King Henry, who thought that the Church people should obey only his laws.

When the Archbishop of Canterbury Church died, King Henry expected that Becket would take his place.

Henry thought this would help him acquire the church’s power and land

Becket did not do as the king had hoped.

“Will no one rid me of this turbulent priest?”

Taking the kings words literally, 4 knights arrived at Canterbury and killed Becket.

Becket was declared a martyr.

It was from London to Canterbury Cathedral (60 miles) that the pilgrims in Chaucer’s Prologue traveled. There they could honor the martyr.

Point of sword that had killed Becket. Becket’s skull covered with silver except for his

forehead where he had been stabbed. Bones of lesser saints Ampulla – small flask containing anointing oil Gifts left by pilgrims Souvenirs – silver or pewter heads of Becket. Tokens – badges to show they had been there.

Kind of bumper stickers of Middle Ages.

begins at the TABARD INN outside of London.

It is April, a common time for pilgrimages. The pilgrims will travel the “Pilgrim’s Road”

from London to Canterbury Cathedral.

The plan is to have each pilgrim tell two stories on the way to Canterbury and two on the way back.

The Canterbury Tales is a frame

story

29 pilgrims tell 2 stories each

Chaucer planned 120

Finished 241 fragment