The Life of Geoffrey Chaucer: A Critical Biography

Description: Traces Chaucer's life and the development of his works in relation to court life and the affairs of contemporary London. Divides his life into six periods of professional activity and explores his changing status as a public servant, the growth of his recognition as a poet, and the development of an audience for his poetry.; Pearsall presents Chaucer as a product of court culture, one who was cautious in political and financial affairs and one who discovered his genius for narrative poetry through ongoing emulation and experimentation. Recurrent concerns include Chaucer's political views and affinities, the publication of his works, and traditional issues of biography and interpretation.; Includes a chronological table of Chaucer's life, several maps and genealogies, and a discussion of the portraits of Chaucer, with 21 illustrations.