Abstract:
In this thesis I explore the ways in which twenty-first century Americans have access
to Geoffrey Chaucer and his works. I look at issues surrounding Chaucer within the
canon debate, high school history and literature textbooks, and Chaucer in popular
culture, such as in movies like A Knight's Tale. I also take an in depth look at The
Pardoner's Tale and The Wife of Bath's Tale, since they most frequently appear in
textbooks and anthologies. Ultimately, I argue that access is limited for the average
person interested in Chaucer and other historical writers, but that it would not be
difficult to improve access for all readers.
