Description
Book SynopsisRecognised on its first appearance as the most comprehensive single-volume guide to The Canterbury Tales yet produced, this third edition brings the Tales up to date in relation both to recent criticism and to the changing expectations of modern readers. The Guide provide tale-by-tale information on textual variations and sources, together with a readable commentary on thematic issues, structure, style, generic affiliations, and the contribution of each tale to the work as a whole. It concludes with a survey of the many imitations of the tales down to the early seventeenth century. This new edition also takes account of the latest scholarship, theory, and criticism and new interpretations of the tales, including such matters as gender identity, consent, and racial and religious difference.The book is the most comprehensive single-volume guide to the Tales yet produced, bringing together a wide range of disparate material and providing a readable commentary on all aspects of the work. I
Trade ReviewReview from previous edition 'marked by wit, learning, intelligence, and that rarest of critical virtues, good judgement...a genuine guide whose abundant information and good sense make it a sure foundation for series work on The Canterbury Tales. Although especially useful for those, on any level, studying Chaucer for the first time, experienced Chaucerians will find it a helpful companion to The Riverside Chaucer. For teaching or research this is now the first book on The Canterbury Tales to consult after reading the text itself.' * Studies in the Age of Chaucer *
'Cooper's guide is a more powerful book than any previous aid or introduction to Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. It presents the lively generous mind of a serious scholar and a sensitive reader.' * Notes & Queries *
'This is a major book with many virtues...a book with much to offer its reader.' * Review of English Studies *
'a well-written and reliable guide through a mass of material that largely transcends the limitations of its form to offer critical analysis of lasting value.' * Archiv für das Stadium der neueren Sprachan und Literaturen *
