Putting it in Context Historical and Cultural Setting of The Canterbury Tales

Historical Context Middle Ages: 5th century – 15th century Also known as The Medieval Period and The Dark Ages

Historical Context Life was filled with turmoil and strife during this period After years of invasions, Britain was a very multi-ethnic country The Church became the most powerful, unifying institution

Historical Context Rural life was governed by a system of feudalism The king granted pieces of land to bishops and lords

Let’s watch a video clip to further our understanding of the Middle Ages.

Discussion Questions: Why are the Middle Ages considered the Dark Ages? Why was it so difficult? Why and how did the church become the most powerful institution during the Middle Ages?

The Author Geoffrey Chaucer “The Father of English Literature” Lived 1343-1400 Black Plague Hundred Years War

Let’s read an introduction to The Canterbury Tales Discussion: Summarize the upbringing and lifestyle of Chaucer. What are some of the different “jobs” and titles he experienced in his lifetime? How was the language he used in The Tales groundbreaking at the time?

Exit Ticket

Prompt: Only considering the United States, how powerful is the church Prompt: Only considering the United States, how powerful is the church? In other words, what role does religion play in our modern society? 1 – Topic Sentence 2 – Reason 1 3 – Support/Elaboration for Reason 1 4 – Reason 2 5 – Support/Elaboration for Reason 2 6 – Closing Statement Sample Paragraph Outline