Chaucer - the Canterbury tales.pptVIP

GEOFFREY CHAUCER (1343-1400) The Canterbury Tales Historical Background At this time England (and Wales) was still being ruled by the descendents of William the Conqueror, who had invaded England in 1066. While Parliament had some powers, in reality the King, if he was supported by the important nobles could do what he wanted. The Church was the only organisation who could hope to oppose the King successfully. Most of the country spoke English, but the King and his courtiers mainly spoke in French. This was partly because they were descended from William the Conqueror, partly because at th