Geoffrey Chaucer in Context

Provides a rich and varied reference resource, illuminating the different contexts for Chaucer and his work.

This volume supports Chaucer's modern readers by delivering the essential contexts - literary, historical, cultural, social, aesthetic, spiritual, philosophical, economic, psychological, linguistic and scientific - through which to read, interpret and enjoy his works with greater confidence and independence.Geoffrey Chaucer is widely acknowledged as the greatest English poet of the Middle Ages. His texts are studied extensively but, in order to be fully appreciated, they demand a nuanced understanding of the medieval period. This volume provides freshly illuminated access to Chaucer's writing through an unrivalled repertoire of contextual information and perspectives designed to enhance the independence and critical capacities of his modern readers. The featured essays are written not only by distinguished literary scholars but also by leading international historians. Geoffrey Chaucer in Context is an essential reference tool for anyone studying Chaucer and will help readers to identify his different voices and engage with the complexity and colour of his times with new awareness.