Historical context

Definition

Historical context refers to the social, political, cultural, and economic circumstances that surrounded an event or a work of literature during its creation. It helps to understand the influences and conditions that shaped a text's themes, characters, and settings, giving deeper meaning to the work.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The historical context of 'The Canterbury Tales' includes the late 14th century in England, a time of social change following the Black Death, which altered class structures.
2. Chaucer wrote during the reign of King Richard II, a period marked by political turmoil and conflicts between nobility and emerging middle classes.
3. The influence of the Catholic Church was strong during this time, shaping many characters' motivations and values in 'The Canterbury Tales.'
4. The tales often reflect societal norms and issues of class, gender roles, and morality relevant to medieval England.
5. Chaucer's use of vernacular English instead of Latin or French was revolutionary for his time, making literature more accessible to common people.

Review Questions

• How does understanding the historical context of 'The Canterbury Tales' enhance our interpretation of its characters?
  • Understanding the historical context provides insight into the societal roles and expectations placed upon the characters in 'The Canterbury Tales.' For instance, the varying backgrounds of the pilgrims reflect the class divisions and social changes occurring in late medieval England. This context allows us to appreciate how characters like the Wife of Bath challenge traditional gender roles and how others reinforce societal norms, enriching our understanding of Chaucer's commentary on his time.
• Discuss how the political climate during Chaucer's time is reflected in 'The Canterbury Tales' and its narratives.
  • The political climate of Chaucer's time is intricately woven into 'The Canterbury Tales' through its exploration of class struggles and power dynamics. Characters representing different social strata interact and often critique one another, showcasing tensions between the nobility and emerging merchant classes. The tales serve as a microcosm of contemporary England, mirroring real-life conflicts such as those seen during King Richard II's reign, ultimately revealing Chaucer's perspective on governance and society.
• Evaluate the significance of pilgrimage in 'The Canterbury Tales' within its historical context and its implications for character development.
  • Pilgrimage serves as a central framework in 'The Canterbury Tales,' allowing Chaucer to explore themes of faith, morality, and social commentary through a diverse group of characters. In the historical context of medieval England, pilgrimage represented both religious devotion and personal journeys. By situating characters on a pilgrimage to Canterbury, Chaucer highlights their individual motivations, biases, and societal roles, ultimately using this journey as a metaphor for life's challenges and moral dilemmas faced in an evolving society.

Related terms

Medieval England: The period in English history from roughly the 5th to the late 15th century, characterized by feudalism, the rise of monarchies, and significant social and religious changes.

Chivalry: A code of conduct associated with the medieval knightly system that emphasized virtues such as bravery, honor, and respect for women and the weak.

Pilgrimage: A journey undertaken by individuals to a sacred place as an act of devotion, often reflecting religious beliefs and cultural practices during the medieval period.