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Geoffrey Chaucer

The Canterbury Tales

Geoffrey ChaucerFiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | Published in 1400

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Book Brief

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Geoffrey Chaucer

The Canterbury Tales

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | Published in 1400
Book Details
Pages

521

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Period
Setting

England • 14th Century

Publication Year

1400

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

500L

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Super Short Summary

In The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer, a group of pilgrims traveling from London to Canterbury to visit the shrine of St. Thomas Becket engage in a storytelling competition suggested by the Host, who promises a banquet to the best storyteller. Each pilgrim tells a tale, and their stories reflect a broad spectrum of medieval life and values, often through humorous and satirical lenses. The narrative includes themes of intense religious belief, sexuality, greed, and casual violence.

Humorous

Adventurous

Contemplative

Nostalgic

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.1

228,862 ratings

52%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

16%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales is celebrated for its vivid storytelling, rich characterizations, and insight into medieval life. Praised for its humor and keen social commentary, the archaic language and dense prose can be challenging for modern readers. Nonetheless, it remains a landmark in English literature and a must-read for its historical and literary significance.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Canterbury Tales?

A reader who enjoys The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer likely appreciates classic literature, medieval history, and social satire. They might also enjoy collections of interconnected stories and character-driven narratives like Boccaccio's The Decameron or Shakespeare's plays. Such a reader values rich language, cultural insights, and moral exploration.

4.1

228,862 ratings

52%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

16%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

521

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Period
Setting

England • 14th Century

Publication Year

1400

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

500L

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