Chaucer's Works, Volume 4 — The Canterbury Tales

A lively band of pilgrims sets out for the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket, and to pass the time each takes a turn at storytelling. From the chivalrous Knight to the outspoken Wife of Bath, the tales swirl together humor, romance, and moral reflection, offering a sharply drawn picture of medieval English life. The conversational frame lets a wide range of voices—noble, bawdy, pious, and cunning—come through, each revealing its teller’s values and quirks.

In this listening edition the stories unfold in clear, engaging narration that brings Chaucer’s vivid scenes to life without demanding specialist knowledge. Listeners hear the bustling countryside, courtly love, clever riddles, and timeless human foibles, all while following the travelers’ own journey toward Canterbury. The collection serves as both an entertaining storytelling experience and a window onto the social tapestry of the 14th century.