Explore how two early drafts shape Chaucer's Prologue and its meaning.
This scholarly study analyzes the relationship between two versions of the Prologue to Chaucer's Legend of Good Women. It shows how the later text adapts the earlier draft to fit a new allegorical purpose, and how these revisions affect theme, tone, and structure. The work connects linguistic changes, poetic choices, and narrative shifts to reveal the editor’s method and conclusions.
- See how the two versions differ in lines, imagery, and rhythm, and what those changes say about revision.
- Learn how the daisy allegory and other devices frame the queen’s virtues and Chaucer’s role as poet.
- Understand why some passages are moved, replaced, or refined to support a new poetic aim.
- Gain insight into textual criticism and the careful reasoning behind identifying a preferred version.
Ideal for readers of Chaucer studies, literary history, and textual criticism who want a clear explanation of how revisions alter meaning and craft.