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

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

6. 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

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

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

10. 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?

11. The Author Geoffrey Chaucer “The Father of English Literature”
Lived
Black Plague
Hundred Years War

12. 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?

13. Exit Ticket

14. 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