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Chaucer and the Subject of History,New
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Renowned scholar of medieval literature, Lee Patterson, presents a compelling vision of the shape and direction of Geoffrey Chaucers entire career in Chaucer and the Subject of History.Chaucer's interest in individuality was strikingly modern. At the same time he was profoundly aware of the pressures on individuality exerted by the past and by societyby history. This tension between the subject and history is Patterson's topic. He begins by showing how Chaucers understanding of history as a subject for poetrya world to be represented and a cultural force affecting human actionbegan to take shape in his poems on classical themes, especially in Troilus and Criseyde. Patterson's extended analysis of this profound yet deeply conflicted exploration of the relationship between 'history' and 'the subject' provides the basis for understanding Chaucer's shift to his contemporary world in the Canterbury Tales. There, in the shrewdest and most wideranging analysis of late medieval society we possess, Chaucer investigated not just the idea of history but the historical world intimately related to his own political and literary career.Patterson's chapters on individual tales clarify and confirm his provocative arguments. He shows, for example, how the Knight's Tale represents the contemporary crisis of governance in terms of a crisis in chivalric identity itself; how the Millers Tale reflects the social pressures and rhetoric of peasant movements generally and the Rising of 1381 in particular; and how the tales of the Merchant and Shipman register the paradoxical placement of a bourgeois class lacking class identity. And Patterson's brilliant readings of the Wife of Baths Tale'the triumph of the subject'and the Pardoners Tale 'the subject of confession'reveal how Chaucer reworked traditional materials to accomplish stunning innovations that make visible unmistakably social meanings. Chaucer and the Subject of History is a landmark book, one that will shape the way that Chaucer is read for years to come.
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- Q: How many pages are in 'Chaucer and the Subject of History'? A: This book contains five hundred pages. It provides an in-depth exploration of Geoffrey Chaucer's literary contributions and historical context.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: The book is published in paperback binding. This makes it lightweight and easy to handle for reading or transport.
- Q: What are the dimensions of 'Chaucer and the Subject of History'? A: The dimensions are nine point three one inches in length, six point three inches in width, and one point zero two inches in height. These measurements make it a standard size for a paperback book.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author is Lee Patterson. He is a renowned scholar in medieval literature and provides unique insights into Chaucer's work.
- Q: What genre does 'Chaucer and the Subject of History' belong to? A: This book falls under the genre of Criticism and Theory. It critically analyzes Chaucer's works through historical and literary lenses.
- Q: How do I read 'Chaucer and the Subject of History' effectively? A: To read this book effectively, approach it chapter by chapter, focusing on the analyses of Chaucer's individual tales. Take notes on key arguments to better understand Patterson's perspectives.
- Q: Is this book suitable for beginners in Chaucer studies? A: Yes, it is suitable for beginners. Lee Patterson's clear writing style and structured analysis make complex ideas accessible for new readers.
- Q: What themes are explored in 'Chaucer and the Subject of History'? A: The book explores themes of individuality, history, and societal pressures as analyzed through Chaucer's poetry. It delves into how these themes manifest in various tales.
- Q: How should I care for 'Chaucer and the Subject of History'? A: To care for the book, store it in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight to prevent fading. Keep it on a shelf to avoid bending or damaging the cover.
- Q: Can I clean the book if it gets dirty? A: Yes, you can clean it gently. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the cover and pages. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions, as they may damage the material.
- Q: What should I do if my copy arrives damaged? A: If your copy arrives damaged, contact the retailer's customer service for a replacement. Most retailers have a return policy for damaged items.
- Q: Is there a warranty for this book? A: No, there is typically no warranty for books. However, check the retailer's return policy for any options available if you are unsatisfied.
- Q: How does this book compare to other works on Chaucer? A: This book offers a unique perspective by focusing on the relationship between history and individuality in Chaucer's work, differentiating it from more general studies.
- Q: Is 'Chaucer and the Subject of History' suitable for academic study? A: Yes, it is suitable for academic study. It provides in-depth analysis and critical perspectives valuable for university courses on medieval literature.
- Q: What audience is this book intended for? A: The intended audience includes students, scholars, and general readers interested in medieval literature and Chaucer's works. It caters to a wide range of literacy levels.