Geoffrey Chaucer, often called the Father of English literature, was born around 1343 in London, England. He lived through the tumultuous Middle Ages, serving as a courtier, diplomat, and poet under King Edward III and Richard II. Chaucer’s career highlights include writing iconic works like The Canterbury Tales, which humorously and insightfully depicts medieval society, and Troilus and Criseyde, a profound exploration of love and fate. His notable achievements helped establish Middle English as a literary language, influencing countless writers. The quotes here are sourced from his books and poems, reflecting timeless wisdom on life. Below is a curated list of 15 insightful quotes by Geoffrey Chaucer about life, drawn from his literary works.
15 Geoffrey Chaucer Quotes
1. “The life so short, the craft so long to learn.” (Book, “The Parliament of Fowls,” 1382)
2. “Forbid us thing, and that desire we.” (Book, “The Canterbury Tales,” c. 1400)
3. “Love is a thing as any spirit free.” (Book, “Troilus and Criseyde,” 1385)
4. “Fortune is false, and ever hath been wight.” (Book, “Troilus and Criseyde,” 1385)
5. “Death is the end of every worldly sore.” (Book, “The Canterbury Tales,” c. 1400)
6. “Patience is a conquering virtue.” (Book, “The Franklin’s Tale,” c. 1400)
7. “Whan that Aprille with his shoures soote, The droghte of March hath perced to the roote.” (Book, “The Canterbury Tales,” c. 1400)
8. “Allas! What harm doth apparence, When hit is false in deed and countenance.” (Book, “Troilus and Criseyde,” 1385)
9. “For of al fortune and aventure, The end is death and double death with misaventure.” (Book, “The Knight’s Tale,” c. 1400)
10. “Women of kind desire liberty, And not to been constrained as a thrall.” (Book, “The Wife of Bath’s Tale,” c. 1400)
11. “Time and tide abide for no man.” (Book, “The Canterbury Tales,” c. 1400)
12. “Virtue is the root of all goodnesse.” (Book, “The Parson’s Tale,” c. 1400)
13. “In the end, we all must die, and that is certain.” (Book, “The Pardoner’s Tale,” c. 1400)
14. “Love is blind, as I have heard say.” (Book, “The Canterbury Tales,” c. 1400)
15. “Man’s life is but a ches game of checkers.” (Book, “Troilus and Criseyde,” 1385)
These quotes reveal Geoffrey Chaucer’s profound insight into the human experience, emphasizing life’s brevity, the unpredictability of fate, the power of love, and the importance of virtue and patience. Through his medieval lens, Chaucer offers timeless reflections that resonate today, reminding us of our shared struggles and joys. What do you think of these quotes? Share your favorite Chaucer insight or how it relates to your life in the comments below.