ENG 210 Final, Spring 1997

Final Examination English 210 Spring 1997 Answer one of the following essay questions at length: 1. In general, critics who consider the social meaning of Chaucer’s work fall into two main schools. Firstly, there are those who interpret this writer as essentially “conservative” in his social outlook, and who present his social thought as expression of the dominant ideology of his day. Secondly, there are those who see in Chaucer a man who sought to challenge the official world-view of his age. State your own position on this matter and substantiate your view with ample textual illustrations. . In the late fourteenth century, literature was not seen simply as a vehicle for expressing personal feelings. For it was used to discuss a wide range of contemporary questions including the failings of the church. The latter topic can be encountered in all of the genres and writings you have encountered in this course. Discuss this topic, referring to three texts belonging to different genres. Include Langland in your answer.