Respond in at least 5 sentences. The answer needs to be written in complete sentences. Include at least 1 quote from "The Canterbury Tales” by Geoffrey Chaucer to earn full credit and support your response.
What was the political, cultural, and literary climate of the English Middle Ages? Pull specifically from The Canterbury Tales to show the climate paying particular attention to how Chaucer uses connotation and denotation to show the climate.
The political climate of the English Middle Ages was marked by hierarchical structures and a feudal system. The nobility held immense power, while the lower classes were subjected to their rule. Chaucer portrays this political climate in "The Canterbury Tales" through the diverse characters he introduces. For example, the Knight, who represents the noble class, is described as having "fought many battles in Christian lands" (Chaucer). This emphasizes the nobility's role in warfare and their dominance over other social classes.
In terms of the cultural climate, religion was a significant aspect of medieval English society. The Catholic Church held immense power and influence, permeating every aspect of people's lives. Chaucer reflects this cultural climate in "The Canterbury Tales" by showcasing the religious pilgrimage of the characters. The main setting of the tales is a pilgrimage to the shrine of Thomas Becket, demonstrating the importance of religious devotion during that time.
The literary climate of the English Middle Ages was characterized by the use of allegory and symbolism. Chaucer employs these literary devices in his work to highlight various aspects of the climate. For instance, in "The Pardoner's Tale," the Pardoner symbolizes the corruption within the Church. Chaucer writes, "This Pardoner hadde heer as yelow as wex" (Chaucer), using connotation to show the disapproval and negative perception associated with the Pardoner's appearance.
Chaucer’s use of connotation and denotation helps reveal the political, cultural, and literary climate of the English Middle Ages in "The Canterbury Tales." His descriptions and characterization provide insights into the social structure, religious importance, and literary techniques prevalent during that time.