Geoffrey Chaucer, one of medieval England's most influential writers, shaped English literature through his masterful works and linguistic innovations. His life journey from a middle-class Londoner to the "father of English poetry" demonstrates his remarkable influence on English language and literature.

• Geoffrey Chaucer was born around 1343 in London to a middle-class family, later becoming a prominent literary figure
• His literary career spans three distinct phases: French, Italian, and English, showcasing his evolving artistic development
• The Canterbury Tales is a portrait of English medieval society, presenting a diverse array of characters through interconnected stories
• His diplomatic missions to Italy significantly influenced his writing style and exposed him to continental literary traditions
• Chaucer's innovative use of language helped establish the East Midlands and London dialect as the foundation for Modern Standard English
• His masterful frame narrative Canterbury Tales remains one of medieval literature's most significant achievements