Geoffrey Chaucer was born sometime between 1340 and 1345, most likely in London. He was the son of a successful wine merchant. In 1357, he became page to Edward III's daughter-in-law. The king then sent him on diplomatic missions abroad. On his journeys he would have seen the works of foreign authors such as Dante.
Chaucer held many positions. He was controller of London Customs, MP for Kent, a justice of the peace and clerk of the king's works in charge of royal building work, under Edward III and Richard II. In addition to this he also wrote many poems. His most famous work of all is without doubt The Canterbury Tales. Historical records of Chaucer disappear around 1400 and this is the presumed date of his death. He was buried in Westminster Abbey, the first person in Poets’ Corner.
How much do you know about Geoffrey Chaucer? Find out in this quiz on his life and works.
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He was born around 1343 and died around 1400
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The tales are told by a group of pilgrims as they travel from Southwark to the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket at Canterbury Cathedral
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It is thought that Chaucer wrote the poem to commemorate the death of Blanche, daughter of the Duke of Lancaster and the wife of John of Gaunt
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The inn was real. It was built in 1307 and stayed in business for over 500 years
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Geoffrey's father, John Chaucer, was a prosperous middle class man who traded imported wines
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Middle English was spoken from 1066 until the 15th century
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The Wife of Bath tales the take of a knight who is set the quest to answer the riddle "what is it that women most desire?" He succeeds in his task when he finds the answer "sovereignty over their husbands"
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This is the tale of rivalry between the friends Palamon and Arcite for the love of Princess Emily
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He also likes breaking down doors with his head!
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In 1360 Chaucer was captured during the siege of Reims and taken prisoner. Edward paid a ransom of £16 (a good deal of money at the time) for his release
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