Geoffrey Chaucer starts writing 'The Canterbury Tales'
Poet involved
What happened
In 1387, Geoffrey Chaucer began writing 'The Canterbury Tales,' a groundbreaking collection of stories in Middle English that reflects the diverse voices of 14th-century society. This work is notable for its use of vernacular language and its exploration of various social classes and human experiences. Chaucer's storytelling not only enriched English literature but also laid the foundation for future narrative forms.
Literary impact
Geoffrey Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales' standardized Middle English as a literary language and introduced iambic pentameter couplets, laying the groundwork for English narrative poetry. His innovative use of character and storytelling influenced generations of poets, including Spenser and Milton, who built upon his narrative techniques.
Source: Wikipedia