Troilus and Criseyde (eBook)

Geoffrey Chaucer (c. 1343-1400) is celebrated as the father of English literature and is best known for being one of the earliest poets to write in English at a time when Latin was the preferred literary language in Europe. Chaucer was born into a family of affluent wine merchants in London and enjoyed a multifaceted career as a courtier, diplomat, and civil servant under three monarchs, including Edward III and Richard II. This experience provided him with a deep insight into the courtly and chivalric traditions that influenced much of his written work. Chaucer's travels to Italy exposed him to the works of Dante, Petrarch, and Boccaccio, which greatly shaped his literary style and themes. His most substantial contribution is 'The Canterbury Tales', a vibrant, satirical portrait of the English society of his time, encapsulated in a collection of stories told by a diverse group of pilgrims. Another noteworthy work is 'Troilus and Criseyde', a long poem that is considered one of the greatest love stories of the medieval period, notable for its psychological depth and narrative sophistication. Chaucer's writing is characterized by its use of the vernacular, astute characterizations, and a humorous, often ironic tone, which cemented his status as a pivotal figure in the development of English literature and language (Benson, 1987).