Chaucer: The Canterbury Tales

　　This introductory guide places the Canterbury Tales in the context of the crisis in English society in the fourteenth century. It examines the social diversity of Chaucer's pilgrims, the stylistic range of their tales and the psychological richness of their interaction. The volume offers students a clear image of the powerful representation of the social reality that makes the Canterbury Tales one of the most important texts in English literature. Emphasis is placed on the language of the poem, the place of Chaucer in subsequent literary tradition, and an entire chapter is devoted to the General Prologue which is widely studied on undergraduate courses. Finally, the volume offers a helpful chronology of the period and an invaluable guide to further reading.
　　? New edition of a widely used and helpful guide to one of the greatest works of world literature - including a fully updated guide to further reading ? This introduction examines the place of Chaucer and his work in subsequent literary tradition ? Written by an expert in the field who has taught this text for many years

Chronology
1. Introduction
2. The general prologue
3. Gentles: chivalry and the courtly world
4. Churls: commerce and the material world
5. Women
6. The art and problems of tale-telling
7. The final tales
8. Afterword: the reception of the Canterbury Tales.