The World of Chaucer

by Derek S. Brewer

Geoffrey Chaucer died on 25 October 1400. To mark the six-hundredth anniversary of his death Derek Brewer's classic book is once again available in a fully illustrated version: over one hundred contemporary colour and black and white illustrations, from the homely to the refined - from children's games and cooking to falconry and music-making - bring the late middle ages to life. Chaucer's English world - that of the second half of the fourteenth century - is rich in interest of every kind, and Chaucer was a uniquely perceptive recorder of it. The tensions between tradition and innovation led to severe, sometimes violent, clashes; age-old customs were contested by the new individualism among the educated, by passionate religious dissent in high and low, and by peasants in revolt. London, caught up in the intellectual ferment, became an economic and cultural force to rival the great Continental cities, yet remained closely linked with the royal court and the church, strongholds of tradition. The English language came to its first full flowering since the Norman conquest, and many international influences were absorbed; among the turmoil, the arts flourished. Chaucer stood close to the centre of this world. He was one of the new literate laymen, a product of the merchant-gentry, from early youth a courtier, briefly a soldier, throughout his life an administrator, diplomat, scholar. He was also a very great poet: drawing freely from his work, Derek Brewer's biography gives a full and rounded picture of a distant but fascinating age. DEREK BREWERhas written many books and articles on Chaucer and medieval and later English literature. He is professor of English literature emeritus in the University of Cambridge, and was Master of Emmanuel College from 1977-90.

256 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2000

Reviews

[Olivia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Too long, poorly edited

[Monica · Rating 4 out of 5]

A classic history about Chaucer and the 14th century in England. Recommended by Terry Jones of Monty Python fame, who actually knows his stuff about the middle ages. It's lavishly illustrated with paintings, tapestries, woodcuts and photos of effigies and common items from the 14th century. This is a wonderful counterpoint to Barbara Tuchman's "A Distant Mirror" about the same time period. Brewer's book (he's a Chaucer authority) of course focuses on England, but interweaves what we know of Chaucer's life with the history and common life of his times. We actually know quite a lot about Chaucer, despite his 600 year distance from us, because Chaucer was a court official and diplomat, and his poetry was famous in his time. Much survives that was recorded about him. Brewer uses his great knowledge of the period to interpret for us. For example, despite the fact that Chaucer at one point in his life was "released" by a lady from "her raptus," this does not necessarily mean that Chaucer was accused of rape. "Raptus," in the 14th century, had other meanings. However, Brewer can't conclude that Chaucer wasn't guilty of rape, as the evidence simply is inconclusive. He does, however, find it extremely unlikely. Most of the records are of Chaucer's legal proceedings, such as leasing houses, and collecting his various annuities, which he did with regularity. His diplomatic missions to France and Italy are fairly well known.

Brewer can't disguise his scholarly style, although he attempts to write a rather lively text. It does take some plodding for those not used to the subject or the style. Brewer also writes for an English audience: he assumes basic knowledge of the times that most Americans lack. However, it's a comprehensive and fascinating history, well worth the rather intense reading effort required, but only for those interested in the subject.

If you are interested, though, then this is an excellent introduction to the period and to Chaucer.

[Bara]

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