The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer

The Canterbury Tales is a classic collection of stories written by Geoffrey Chaucer in the late 14th century. It follows a group of pilgrims traveling to the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket in Canterbury. To pass the time on the journey, each pilgrim agrees to tell stories, resulting in a vibrant mix of tales ranging from noble romances to bawdy comedies and moral fables. The tales are framed by vivid character portraits—like the noble Knight, the outspoken Wife of Bath, the corrupt Pardoner, and the drunken Miller—each reflecting the diversity and complexity of medieval society. Through their stories, Chaucer explores themes of class, morality, religion, gender roles, and human nature. Though unfinished, the work is praised for its lively storytelling, satirical edge, and pioneering use of Middle English. The Canterbury Tales remains a cornerstone of English literature and a rich window into the culture and values of medieval England.