We have changed our privacy policy. In addition, we use cookies on our website for various purposes. By continuing on our website, you consent to our use of cookies. You can learn about our practices by reading our privacy policy.

The Canterbury Tales: General Prologue & Frame Story Allusions & Cultural References

When authors refer to other great works, people, and events, it’s usually not accidental. Put on your super-sleuth hat and figure out why.

Literary and Philosophical References

  • Benedict, Rule of St Benedict (General Prologue 173)
  • Augustine of Hippo (General Prologue 187)
  • Aristotle (General Prologue 295)
  • Seneca (Man of Law's Introduction 25)
  • Ovid, Epistles (Heroides) (Man of Law's Introduction 54 – 55)
  • Ovid, Metamorphoses (Man of Law's Introduction 93)
  • Canacee (Man of Law's Introduction 78)
  • Appollonius of Tyre (Man of Law's Introduction 81)
  • Antiochus (Man of Law's Introduction 82)
  • Francis Petrarch (Clerk's Prologue 31)
  • Cicero (Franklin's Prologue 13)
  • Cato (Canon's Yeoman's Prologue 135)
  • Bacchus (Manciple's Prologue 99)

References to Medical Authorities (General Prologue 429 – 434)

References to Chaucer's Own Work

Biblical References

  • Genesis 1 (General Prologue 254)
  • John 1 (General Prologue 254)
  • The Gospels (General Prologue 498)
  • Solomon (Cook's Prologue 6)
  • Paul, Letter to Timothy (Parson's Prologue 32)
  • Saint John (Man of Law's Introduction 18)