... words and his unique character insight were great innovations relatively unattempted before his time and unmatched since. The fact that nothing like The Canterbury Tales has since come out of modern literature does not detract from its brilliance; it simply means modern literature has failed to match Chaucer's ... abilities in capturing the true essence of individuality and as a poet. That which has established The Canterbury Tales as the cornerstone of modern literature is undoubtedly Chaucer's ability to create his characters with more than a job and social rank, but with ... [him] a...

• Word Count: 1303
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: High School