A Companion to Chaucer's Canterbury Tales
YA?This readable presentation of the often bawdy and lusty tales is designed specifically for first-time readers. It is indeed a companion and makes YAs feel the tremendous sweep of this pilgrimage across England with this motley crew comprised of knights, clergymen and women, scholars, tradespeople, laborers, and peasants. In addition, it provides students with simple interpretations and amplifications and makes their journey through this great unfinished work enjoyable and rewarding. Particularly helpful are the opening sections on Chaucer's world and language. There are essays of explanation as well on each of the major tales. Medieval ways of thought, religion, dress, and behavior are dealt with for the various levels of society and these facets are related to the structure of the pilgrimage. Portions of the text are set forth with translation into contemporary English. The appendixes cover six of the less-revered selections and also discuss the importance of the links between the tales and the unifying force of the character Harry Bailly, who leaves his inn to join the pilgrimage.?Frances Reiher, Fairfax County Public Library, VACopyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.