Geoffrey Chaucer’s use of Middle English was groundbreaking. During the medieval period, the English language was undergoing significant changes, moving away from Old English and incorporating more elements from Norman French and Latin. Chaucer, who was fluent in both Latin and French, played a significant role in the development of Middle English as a literary language.

Before Chaucer, much of English literature was written in Latin or French, the languages of the church and the court. Chaucer’s choice to write in English, however, allowed him to reach a broader audience and contributed to the rise of English as a legitimate language of culture and scholarship. He is credited with enriching English vocabulary, introducing a wide range of French and Latin words into the language, and experimenting with poetic forms that would influence generations of writers to come.

Chaucer's works are often considered the bridge between the Anglo-Saxon literary tradition and the English Renaissance, making him a crucial figure in the development of the English language. His works were studied and imitated by later writers such as John Milton, Geoffrey Chaucer's own literary legacy, and even William Shakespeare.

 Chaucer’s Social Commentary and Critique of Medieval Society

Chaucer was not just a masterful storyteller but also a keen observer of the world around him. Much of his writing can be read as a critique of the medieval social structure. His works often comment on the issues of class, gender, and religion, with particular attention paid to the flaws and hypocrisies of the church and the nobility.

In The Canterbury Tales, Chaucer’s characters are drawn from every level of society, and through their stories, he paints a picture of the social, moral, and political issues of the time. For example, in “The Pardoner’s Tale,” Chaucer mocks the greed and corruption of the clergy, particularly through the character of the Pardoner, who exploits the religious devotion of others for personal gain. Similarly, in “The Wife of Bath’s Tale,” Chaucer explores the complex nature of gender roles, marriage, and female sexuality, offering a somewhat progressive perspective for the time.

Chaucer’s ability to blend humor and criticism makes his works not only entertaining but also a source of social commentary, as he subtly critiques the injustices and shortcomings of the medieval world. shutdown123