Geoffrey Chaucer

Date of Birth: c. 1343

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: October 25, 1400

Biography

Geoffrey Chaucer, often hailed as the “Father of English literature,” was born in London, England, around 1343. He was a poet, philosopher, bureaucrat, and diplomat. Chaucer is best known for “The Canterbury Tales,” a collection of stories in verse and prose that paint a vivid picture of medieval English society. His work had a profound influence on the development of English literature and the use of the English language in literature. Chaucer served in various capacities under three kings, Edward III, Richard II, and Henry IV. Despite his significant contributions to literature, much of his life remains shrouded in mystery, including the exact dates of his birth and death. Chaucer’s works continue to be studied and celebrated for their rich storytelling and insight into human nature.

5 Interesting Facts about Geoffrey Chaucer

1. Geoffrey Chaucer was captured by the French during the Hundred Years’ War and was later ransomed by King Edward III.

2. Chaucer’s “The Canterbury Tales” was one of the first major works to be written in Middle English, making literature more accessible to the common people.

3. He held the position of Clerk of the King’s Works, overseeing construction projects for King Richard II.

4. Chaucer was buried in Westminster Abbey, making him the first poet to be interred in what is now known as Poets’ Corner.

5. In addition to poetry, Chaucer translated important works from Latin and French into English, including “The Romance of the Rose.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Geoffrey Chaucer

1. “Time and tide wait for no man.”

2. “The life so short, the craft so long to learn.”

3. “Patience is a conquering virtue.”

4. “He who loves best, loves least.”

5. “For out of the old fields, as men say, comes all this new corn from year to year; and out of old books, in good faith, comes all this new science that men learn.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

There are no reliable records of Geoffrey Chaucer’s net worth, but his various positions and royal connections suggest he was relatively well-off for a man of his time.

Children

Geoffrey Chaucer had at least two known children: 1. Thomas Chaucer, who became a prominent diplomat and Speaker of the House of Commons. 2. Lewis Chaucer, about whom little is known, though Chaucer wrote a treatise on the astrolabe for him.