Geoffrey Chaucer
- Born:
- c. 1343, London, England
- Died:
- October 25, 1400, London, England
- Nationality:
- English
- Profession(s):
- Author, Poet, Philosopher, Courtier, Diplomat
Early Life and Education
- Born into a middle-class family of wine merchants in London.
- Served as a page in the household of Elizabeth de Burgh, Countess of Ulster.
- Fought in the English army during the Hundred Years' War, was captured and ransomed.
- Received a good education, likely including Latin and French.
Career and Major Achievements
- Held various positions in the royal service, including Controller of Customs and Clerk of the King's Works.
- Served as a diplomat on several missions to France and Italy.
- Member of Parliament for Kent in 1386.
- Considered the "Father of English Literature" for his contributions to the development of the English language.
- Pioneered the use of vernacular English in literary works, moving away from Latin and French.
- Innovated in poetic forms, including the use of rhyme royal.
Notable Works
- The Canterbury Tales
- Troilus and Criseyde
- The Book of the Duchess
- The House of Fame
- The Parliament of Fowls
- Anelida and Arcite
Legacy and Impact
Geoffrey Chaucer's impact on English literature is profound. His use of the vernacular, his mastery of narrative, and his creation of memorable characters established a foundation for subsequent generations of English writers. The enduring popularity of The Canterbury Tales and the continued interest in understanding the nuances of a 'chaucer biography timelines' reflect his lasting influence on the literary landscape.