Studying Chaucer at AS level

Does anyone have any exam tips for studying his poetry? I'm finding this part of my As a bit of a struggle and I don't think the 45minute time limit for the closed book exam for the other novel we are studying is enough.... any opinions on this?

Reply 1

viviki

Have you bought a translation?
Get a translation into regular English and get some criticism on Chaucer, you will find some books in your local library also the net has a whole host of Chaucer info.
Which tales are you studying?

Reply 2

lady_V

Yes we have the translation and we are studying the Miller's Tale, but I am finding it a slight struggle to battle with the questions we are given in the practice exams

Reply 3

Lurker

This might be a useful site -
http://www.shunsley.eril.net/armoore/poetry/miller.htm

Reply 4

deary_ma_leary

i found it was easier if you ignored the fact that it's in middle english coz that really got me stuck but if you just pretend it's modern english, it does make it easier

Reply 5

hd7481

I did chaucer for sixth year studies and we were allowed to keep our notes on the pages for the xmas. Did make it that little bit easier.

The advice about pretending its modern is a good idea, did you not see the tv series about chaucers tales. Perhaps if you could get hold of them it would be handy.

Reply 6

hd7481

i meant to say exam, not xmas, god what is happening to me!

Reply 7

Lurker

hd7481

The advice about pretending its modern is a good idea, did you not see the tv series about chaucers tales. Perhaps if you could get hold of them it would be handy.

The tv series might be handy to give you a general idea, but don't take them too seriously, I didn't think the modern Miller's Tale was very true to the original.