Alchemy and character : a re-appraisal of two major aspects of Chaucer's 'Canon's Yeoman's Tale'

Abstract

It is unavoidable that such a dissertation, dealing with two distinct aspects of the Canon's Yeoman's Tale, should fall into two separate parts. The first sub-section of the first part will seek to trace the development of alchemy right up to Chaucer's time. Particular emphasis will be placed upon those elements that illuminate the tale in one way or another. This will help to dispel some of the gratuitous assumptions of inherent difficulties in the Tale. The tale itself will be put in a wider alchemical context, but it will also become clear that a cursory knowledge of alchemy is enough to enable the reader to enjoy the consummate artistry of Chaucer.