A review by spooky_simon
The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer

challenging slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? N/A
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

I can absolutely see why people like this book. Most of it was a chore for me to get through, both on audiobook and in physical form. I found the best parts were far outweighed by the slog of biblical, Hellenic, astrological, misogynist, and otherwise obscure or painful references, treatises, digressions and tangents. Multiple stories in the Tales were just people quoting Seneca, Solomon, and unattributed "writers" at each other which I found somewhat grating. 

Lastly, the abundance of and casualness towards rape, marital rape, statutory rape, child sexual abuse, sexual assault, harassment, and virulent antisemitism really sapped the "jolly little guys going on adventure" vibe from the book


I have to say the Wikipedia page is incredibly interesting and I would have given that 5 stars.
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