Putting it in Context

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 1343-1400 • 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? 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