Chaucer and Chrétien and Arthurian Romance

Abstract

Some evidence has already been noticed¹ that suggests that Chaucer had read Chrétien. The evidence is Chaucer’s use of the word vavasour to describe the Franklin (CT, i, 360)—the only occurrence of that word in his writings. It is possible however to argue that two other references by Chaucer also reveal a knowledge of Chrétien’s works. Consideration of these possible points of contact between two very different yet very medieval poets suggests some fruitful contrasts and comparisons.

First published in Chaucer and Middle English Studies: In Honour of Rossell Hope Robbins, ed. B. Rowland (London, 1974) pp. 255–9.