A Comparison of Modern and Medieval Society

Paper Summary:

This paper is a historical examination of medieval society and modern society. It discusses 'The General Prologue' and 'The Canterbury Tales' and how they portray these societies. It describes the classes of those times and the positions that people filled in society such as: Friars, nobleman, clergymen and cowards. It details the story of a friar who used his St. Augustian ways for his benefit as well as the church's benefit.

From the Paper:

"One of the chief contributions that Geoffrey Chaucer made to the historical world through "The Canterbury Tales" is that he gives what is believed to be the most detailed and honest cross-section of medieval society. Historians who study the language and details of "The Canterbury Tales" and "The General Prologue" can see parallels between medieval society and modern society. Some tradesmen are honest while some overcharge for their services. There are nobleman and cowards. There are gruff lower class workers and students who are poor at the time but will have great jobs when they are done with school. There are also clergymen who give their life for the church but also religious folk who are as conniving and immoral as an everyday crook. The friar, who disregards many of St. Augustine's rules for monastic life, is one of the clergymen who fits into the latter category."

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