History of English Literature: Middle English Period
Introduction
The Middle English Period, spanning from the late 11th century to the late 15th century, represents a transformative era in English literature. This epoch witnessed significant changes in language, literary themes, and cultural contexts, laying the foundation for modern English literature. This comprehensive guide delves into the historical context, language development, literary themes, notable works and authors, literary devices, and social influences of the Middle English Period.
Historical Context
Norman Conquest (1066)
The Norman Conquest in 1066 was a pivotal event that drastically altered the course of English history. The Normans brought with them Norman French, which became the language of the ruling class and had a profound impact on the English language and its literature. The conquest also led to the reorganization of England’s societal structure, establishing a feudal system.
Feudal System
Under the feudal system, the king granted land to nobles in exchange for military service. This hierarchical structure permeated all aspects of life and influenced literary themes, particularly those concerning loyalty, duty, and honor.
Crusades
The Crusades, spanning from the 11th to the 13th centuries, expanded the horizons of European culture. Contact with the East introduced new ideas, stories, and themes that began to appear in Middle English literature, often focusing on chivalry and adventure.
Black Death (1347-1351)
The Black Death pandemic caused widespread social and economic upheaval, drastically reducing the population and disrupting the existing feudal order. The literature of the time reflected these changes, often exploring themes of mortality and the transient nature of life.
Language Development
Transition from Old English to Middle English
The Middle English Period marked the transition from Old English to Middle English. This evolution was influenced by Norman French and Latin, resulting in a more diverse vocabulary and simplified grammar. The infusion of French words and phrases enriched the English language, making it more flexible and expressive.
Chancery Standard
In the 15th century, the establishment of the Chancery Standard began to standardize English spelling and grammar. This move towards a uniform written language facilitated clearer communication and set the stage for the development of Modern English.
Literary Themes and Genres
Religious Writings
Religious literature dominated the Middle English Period, including homilies, hagiographies, and theological treatises. These works were primarily didactic, aiming to instruct and edify the faithful.
Romance
Chivalric romances were popular during this period, featuring tales of knights, adventure, and courtly love. These stories often involved quests, battles, and themes of honor and bravery.
Read More – The Age of Chaucer
Allegory
Allegorical works were common, using symbolic figures and actions to convey deeper moral and spiritual lessons. These narratives were designed to instruct readers in the virtues and vices of life.
Courtly Love Poetry
Poetry celebrating courtly love became a prominent genre, exploring the ideals of love and chivalry. These poems often depicted noble knights expressing their devotion to unattainable ladies.
Mystery and Morality Plays
Mystery plays, based on biblical stories, and morality plays, which taught ethical lessons, were popular dramatic forms. These performances were typically staged by guilds and conveyed religious and moral teachings to a broad audience.
Notable Works and Authors
Geoffrey Chaucer (1343-1400)
The Canterbury Tales
Geoffrey Chaucer’s “The Canterbury Tales” is a seminal work in Middle English literature. This collection of stories, told by pilgrims on their way to Canterbury, provides a vivid portrait of medieval society. Each tale reflects different aspects of human nature and social norms.
Troilus and Criseyde
Another significant work by Chaucer, “Troilus and Criseyde” is a tragic romance set during the Trojan War. The poem explores themes of love, fate, and fortune, and is noted for its psychological depth.
William Langland (c. 1332-1386)
Piers Plowman
William Langland’s “Piers Plowman” is an allegorical narrative poem that critiques the social and ecclesiastical issues of the time. It presents a vision of a just society through the character of Piers, a humble plowman.
Anonymous
Sir Gawain and the Green Knight
“Sir Gawain and the Green Knight” is an anonymous chivalric romance that explores themes of honor, bravery, and chivalry. The poem tells the story of Sir Gawain, a knight of King Arthur’s Round Table, who accepts a challenge from the mysterious Green Knight.
John Gower (c. 1330-1408)
Confessio Amantis
John Gower’s “Confessio Amantis” is a collection of stories within a moral framework, reflecting on human vices and virtues. The work combines classical and contemporary tales to explore the nature of love and morality.
Literary Devices and Forms
Alliterative Verse
Alliterative verse, a poetic form that uses alliteration as a principal structuring device, was prevalent in Middle English poetry. This form often featured in works like “Piers Plowman” and “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.”
Frame Narrative
The frame narrative, a story within a story, is exemplified by Chaucer’s “The Canterbury Tales.” This structure allows for a diverse range of voices and perspectives within a single work.
Allegory
Allegory was a favored literary device, where characters and events symbolized broader moral and spiritual truths. This form was used to convey complex ideas in an accessible manner.
Fabliau
The fabliau, a short, humorous, and often bawdy tale, became popular during this period. These stories typically featured clever plots and satirical elements, providing entertainment and social commentary.
Social and Cultural Influences
The Church
The Catholic Church held immense influence over all aspects of life during the Middle English Period, including literature. Many works were didactic, aiming to promote Christian values and teachings.
Feudalism and Chivalry
The feudal system and the code of chivalry shaped literary themes of loyalty, duty, and honor. These social structures were reflected in the tales of knights and their adventures.
The Rise of Towns and Trade
The growth of towns and trade led to the emergence of a middle class with distinct literary tastes. This demographic shift influenced the production and consumption of literature, leading to a greater diversity of themes and genres.
Key Terms
Middle English
Middle English refers to the form of English spoken and written between the late 11th and late 15th centuries. This period of linguistic transition saw the language becoming more standardized and versatile.
Romance
Romance, as a literary genre, involves tales of chivalry, adventure, and courtly love. These stories often feature knights, quests, and themes of honor and bravery.
Mystery Plays
Mystery plays are dramas based on biblical stories, performed by guilds during religious festivals. These plays aimed to educate and entertain the public through theatrical representations of scripture.
Morality Plays
Morality plays are allegorical dramas that taught moral lessons, often featuring personified virtues and vices. These plays were designed to instruct audiences in ethical and religious principles.
FAQs
What significant event marked the beginning of the Middle English Period?
The Norman Conquest of 1066 marked the beginning of the Middle English Period, introducing Norman French to England and influencing the English language and literature.
Who is Geoffrey Chaucer and why is he important?
Geoffrey Chaucer is a renowned author from the Middle English Period, best known for “The Canterbury Tales.” His works provide a vivid depiction of medieval society and are significant for their use of Middle English.
What is a frame narrative?
A frame narrative is a literary structure in which a main story encompasses one or more smaller stories. “The Canterbury Tales” by Geoffrey Chaucer is a classic example of a frame narrative.
What themes are prevalent in Middle English literature?
Common themes in Middle English literature include chivalry, adventure, courtly love, religious devotion, and moral allegory.
How did the Black Death influence Middle English literature?
The Black Death led to significant social and economic changes, which were reflected in the literature of the time. Themes of mortality, the transient nature of life, and social critique became more prominent.
What is alliterative verse?
Alliterative verse is a poetic form that uses alliteration as the main structuring device. It was commonly used in Middle English poetry, such as “Piers Plowman” and “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.”
Conclusion
The Middle English Period was a time of profound linguistic, literary, and cultural transformation. From the Norman Conquest to the works of Geoffrey Chaucer, this era laid the groundwork for modern English literature. Understanding the historical context, language development, literary themes, and social influences of this period provides valuable insights into the richness and complexity of English literary history.
