Middle English Literature is a period of English literature that covers the 13th to the 15th centuries This period of English literature bridges the gap between Old English and Modern English and it is the era of Chaucerian English. During this time, the literary lingua-franca shifted from the Latin to the French.
This period saw the flourishing of The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer and other great works such as The History of Troilus and Criseyde, Piers Plowman, and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. It was a period of great literary achievement and innovation, from the development of the Middle English vernacular through the proliferation of courtly lyric poetry to the production of popular religious romances and moral plays.
The following are five interesting essay topics related to Middle English Literature.
1. The Role of Religion in Middle English Literature: Religion played a major role in Middle English Literature, providing source material, guidance, and inspiration. Explore how religion influenced the development of literature during this period and the themes and motifs present in the works of the period.
2. Chaucer and the Development of Middle English Literature: Geoffrey Chaucer is widely considered the Father of Middle English Literature. Analyze how Chaucer’s works helped to shape the vernacular language of the period and investigate how his characters challenge the social norms of the day.
3. The Impact of Feudalism on Middle English Literature: Feudalism was the heart of the Middle Ages and the prevalent social, political, and economic system at the time. Examine how this system helped to shape themes and stories of Middle English Literature and the impact it had on the characters and storylines of these works.
4. The Development of Courtly Romance in Middle English Literature: Courtly romance was a popular genre during this period, often exploring themes of courtly love and chivalry. Discuss how this genre developed through the works of Middle English Literature and how it impacted the themes, characters, and stories.
5. Women in Middle English Literature: Women were often portrayed negatively in Middle English Literature and their roles were limited in society. Explore how the portrayal of women in Middle English Literature reflects the attitudes of the period and how this perception of women was perpetuated through literature.