Notes on Canterbury Tales Lecture

Introduction

• The setting is a journey to Canterbury to visit the shrine of St. Thomas.
• Harry Bailey, the innkeeper, introduces the storytelling competition.
• Each traveler will tell two stories going and two coming back; the best story wins a supper at the inn.

Characters and Storytelling

• Lady Prioress hesitant to start; prefers to speak in French.
• The scene is lively, filled with laughter and banter among characters.
• John Priest introduces a story about a widow and her cock, Chanticleer.

Chanticleer's Tale

• The widow leads a simple life with limited possessions but is healthy.
• Chanticleer is a proud rooster, admired for his crowing abilities.
• Discussion on dreams and omens, with conflicting opinions among characters regarding their importance.
• Chanticleer dreams of a beast, leading to a comedic misunderstanding about dreams.

Themes in the Tales

• Love and relationships are central themes, explored through the characters' dialogues.
• The story highlights the folly of love and the dynamics between men and women.
• The characters often interject with humor and commentary, adding depth and complexity.

The Knight's Tale

• Introduces the concept of chivalry and the competition for love.
• Arcite and Palamon, two knights, both love Emily, leading to conflict.
• Theseus, the Duke of Athens, sets a challenge for them to win her hand.
• The tale touches on themes of fate, love, and competition.

The Tournament

• Arcite wins the tournament but meets a tragic end.
• Ending reflects on life's fleeting happiness and the inevitability of death.
• Palamon ultimately marries Emily, highlighting the complexities of love.

The Wife of Bath

• Introduces her views on marriage and gender dynamics.
• She discusses her multiple marriages and experiences with men, asserting her dominance.
• The tale reveals the struggle for power in relationships, contrasting youth vs. age.

Conclusion

• The lively storytelling continues with characters debating and responding to each other's tales.
• The journey to Canterbury is depicted as a blend of humor, wisdom, and the human experience.
• The tone is lighthearted, inviting laughter while addressing serious themes.