Lecture notes on the Age of Chaucer and his Contribution to the English language

 

The Age of Chaucer 14^th century (1343 - 1450)

The first significant period in the history of English literature.

It marks the beginning of a new era, new language and new literature.

End of the medieval age and the beginning of Renaissance.

Exclusively for poetry

It was a transitional period

Chaucer was a Janus faced writer – He looks backward as well as forward.

Three kings ruled during the time of Chaucer - Edward III, Richard II and Henry IV

The first glorious period for English Literature in general and poetry in particular

The contemporaries of Chaucer : John Gower and William Langland

Chaucer contributed much than the others and the first great individual figure as a poet in the history of English literature.

Notable Works : Canterbury Tales, Parlement of Foules, House of Fame, Legend of Good Women, Book of the Duchesse.

A forward looking poet – A complete departure from religious sentiments and moralities.

According to David daiches : “Chaucer had the metrical craftsmanship to handle English with a subtlety and flexibility, which made it at once as equal as a literary language of the French and Latin”.

 

Geoffrey Chaucer, often regarded as the Father of English Literature, made profound contributions to the development and evolution of the English language during the 14th century. His most significant work, "The Canterbury Tales," stands as a milestone in the formation of modern English.

 

Chaucer's major contribution lies in his pioneering use of Middle English. During his time, English was developing from Old English to Middle English, marked by significant changes in vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. Chaucer played a crucial role in popularizing the use of Middle English in literature, he used east midland dialect,  making it more accessible to a broader audience.

The Canterbury Tales is a collection of stories told by pilgrims on their journey to Canterbury Cathedral. This work showcases the diversity of English dialects and accents, offering a snapshot of linguistic variations in Chaucer's era. His portrayal of different characters with distinct linguistic styles reflects the richness and complexity of the language.

Chaucer's influence on the English language extends beyond mere linguistic changes. He contributed significantly to the standardization of English through his meticulous use of dialects and pronunciation in his writings. This helped in bridging regional linguistic gaps, contributing to the formation of a more unified English language.

Furthermore, Chaucer's inventive use of poetic forms, such as rhymed couplets and iambic pentameter, laid the groundwork for future poets and writers. His innovative approach to versification not only showcased his literary mastery but also set a precedent for the development of English poetry.

In addition to linguistic and poetic contributions, Chaucer played a role in shaping the narrative structure of English literature. The Canterbury Tales introduced the frame narrative, where a central story encompasses and connects multiple individual tales. This narrative technique became influential in later literary works, leaving an indelible imprint on the storytelling tradition in English literature.

Chaucer's contribution to English vocabulary is substantial. In The Canterbury Tales, he skillfully employed a wide range of words and expressions drawn from various sources, including Latin, French, and Italian. This multilingual approach enriched the English language with a diversity of terms, contributing to its expansion and adaptability. Chaucer's creative use of words reflected the dynamic linguistic environment of his time and helped establish a foundation for the incorporation of foreign words into the English diction.

 

 

In terms of grammar, Chaucer played a crucial role in the evolution of Middle English grammar. The period during which Chaucer wrote saw significant changes in grammatical structures, with Old English giving way to the emerging Middle English. Chaucer's writings reflect this transitional phase, showcasing features of both older and newer grammatical forms. His work contributed to the standardization of grammatical rules and conventions, helping to shape the trajectory of English grammar.

 

Chaucer's impact on English grammar is also evident in his use of syntactical structures and sentence construction. His command of grammatical elements, such as verb variation and word order, demonstrated a sophisticated understanding of the language. Chaucer's grammatical innovations contributed to the establishment of a more structured and refined form of English, paving the way for future developments in grammar.

Chaucer's impact on the English language is enduring, as his works continue to be studied and appreciated for their linguistic significance and literary merit. His contributions laid the foundation for the emergence of a standardized and enriched English language, setting the stage for the vibrant literary landscape that followed in the centuries to come.