The Canterbury Tales of Chaucer: To Which are Added an Essay on His Language and Versification, and an Introductory Discourse, Together with Notes and a Glossary Volume 2

Geoffrey Chaucer · Thomas Tyrwhitt

Jan 1868 · William P. Nimmo

Ratings and reviews

Reading The Canterbury Tales (CT) is one of the most delightful experiences in the world of the classics. My favorite, the Wife of Bathe's tale, is a captivating tale told by a women of high intelligence, independent ethics, and a infectious zest for life. Frankly, it was with difficulty that I accepted Chaucer as the author. I thought that no man could have such a clear understanding of the complex and at times wacky workings of the female nature. The story, which is told on a religious pilgrimage in the company of a diverse collection of travelers, rehearses her life and five marriages. Ever since reading CT, many of the characters have become intellectual friends, whose discourses have brought fond memories and any number of great literary allusions for my writing. And none more so than the immortal Wife of Bathe. As an addendum, I would like to recommend The Tales as a great way to introduce the Classics to a young (post puberty) audience. They offer no end of opportunities for discussions of history, church history, morality - now and then, the writers craft, most particularly characterization, not to mention the many aspects of literary study. Reading the Tales is by no means a stuffy boring chore to be done only by book nerds and dusty old people. Enjoy!!