CHAPTER IV. THE AGE OF CHAUCER (1350-1400)- Tell briefly the story of Chaucer’s life. What foreign in-
fluences are noticeable? Name a few poems illustrating his
three periods of work. What qualities have you noticed in his
poetry? Why is he called our first national poet? - Give the plan of theCanterbury Tales. For what is the Pro-
logue remarkable? What light does it throw upon English life
of the fourteenth century? Quote or read some passages that
have impressed you. Which character do you like best? Are
any of the characters like certain men and women whom you
know? What classes of society are introduced? Is Chaucer’s
attitude sympathetic or merely critical? - Tell in your own words the tale you like best. Which tale
seems truest to life as you know it? Mention any other poets
who tell stories in verse. - Quote or read passages which show Chaucer’s keenness
of observation, his humor, his kindness in judgment, his de-
light in nature. What side of human nature does he empha-
size? Make a little comparison between Chaucer and Shake-
speare, having in mind (1) the characters described by both
poets, (2) their knowledge of human nature, (3) the sources
of their plots, (4) the interest of their works. - Describe brieflyPiers Plowmanand its author. Why is the
poem called "the gospel of the poor"? What message does it
contain for daily labor? Does it apply to any modern condi-
tions? Note any resemblance in ideas betweenPiers Plowman
and such modern works as Carlyle’sPast and Present, Kings-
ley’sAlton Locke, Morris’sDream of John Ball, etc. - For what is Wyclif remarkable in literature? How did
his work affect our language? Note resemblances and differ-
ences between Wyclif and the Puritans. - What isMandeville’s Travels? What light does it throw on
the mental condition of the age? What essential difference do
you note between this book andGulliver’s Travels?