Natural Law as Chaucer’s Ethical Absolute.

Author / Editor
Dunleavy, Gareth W.

Title
Natural Law as Chaucer’s Ethical Absolute.

Published
Transactions of the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts, and Letters 52 (1963): 177-87.

Description
Identifies references in Chaucer's works to "natural law," or "law of kynde," describing its status in medieval legal theory and philosophy, including Boethius, and exploring Chaucer's possible experiences with the practices of "law merchant" and "quick justice." Works considered include BD, PF, Bo, TC, and CT, where the Friar and Summoner flout natural law, while the Parson, Knight, and Plowman observe it.

Chaucer Subjects
Background and General Criticism
Chaucer's Life
Book of the Duchess
Parliament of Fowls
Boece
Troilus and Criseyde
Canterbury Tales--General