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The Canterbury Tales III

Modern English Verse Translation

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The Canterbury Tales III

By: Geoffrey Chaucer, Frank Ernest Hill - translator
Narrated by: Timothy West, Charles Kay, Stephen Tompkinson, Tim Pigott-Smith, Sean Barrett, Rosalind Shanks, Michael Maloney
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About this listen

Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales, a collection of narratives written between 1387 and 1400, tells of a group of 30 people from all layers of society who pass the time along their pilgrimage to Canterbury by telling stories to one another, their interaction mediated (at times) by the affable host - Chaucer himself. Naxos AudioBooks’ third volume presents the tales of six people, here in an unabridged modern verse translation (by Frank Ernest Hill, 1935). This is an ideal way to appreciate the genuinely funny and droll talent of England’s early master storyteller. Seven leading British actors bring the medieval world into the 21st century, and at least in terms of character, not much seems to have changed!

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your My Library section along with the audio.

Public Domain (P)2004 Naxos AudioBooks Ancient, Classical & Medieval Literature Classics Epic European Poetry Themes & Styles World Literature Funny

Editor reviews

British actors present seven of Chaucer's classic tales in modern verse. Tim Pigott-Smith opens with "The Friar's Tale," recounting the Summoner's pact with the devil in a clear and expressive voice. Timothy West's portrayal of "The Seaman's Tale" lags a bit when the long-suffering wife's vocal characterization changes mid-speech. Rosalind Shanks lends sweet sadness to the murder and miracle comprising "The Prioress's Tale." Genuine angst rings through Sean Barrett's depiction of "The Manciple's Tale," as a husband takes decisive action on a crow's advice. Michael Maloney applies a driving rhythm as a young woman chooses death over loss of virtue in "The Physician's Tale." This clear and compelling collection is certain to appeal to both novice and experienced Chaucer readers.
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Great narration by top performers for these entertaining tales.. I have thoroughly enjoyed listening to all three parts of The Canterbury Tales.

Just Wonderful

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I enjoyed listening to these stories some were very bold and saucy but very entertaining.

Mediaeval

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