Chaucers Canterbury Tales Art and Artistry - adult education class

Course overview

This course is taught at the Horsebridge Centre in Whitstable

Written between 1387 and 1400, Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales is one of the foundational works of English literature, and as that implies it has has a long and profound influence on English language and literature for many centuries. But it has also had a significant influence on the visual arts.

On this course, which takes place at the Horsebridge Centre in Whitstable, we will explore The Canterbury Tales through the lens of visual culture, from its medieval manuscript origins to its imaginative reinterpretations in the modern era.

Through close reading and visual analysis, we will examine how the tales have been re-presented across time—in illuminated manuscripts, in William Morris’s handcrafted Kelmscott Chaucer, and on screen in films by figures such as Michael Powell and Pier Paolo Pasolini.

We will consider how art, both medieval and modern, has shaped our understanding of the tales’ humour, politics, and humanity.

You will be encouraged to watch two films outside of class, and there will be an optional group visit to the Canterbury Tales Experience in Canterbury (entrance fee applies).

The course is open to all, and no previous experience of the subject is necessary. All welcome!

Term dates

•  Autumn Term: week beginning 27 October 2025 until week ending 5 December 2025

Any questions?

If you have any questions about the content of this course please contact the tutor, Dr Sarah James: s.james@imperial.ac.uk 

If you have any questions about enrolment please contact the Imperial after:hours Administrator, Christian Jacobi: c.jacobi@imperial.ac.uk

Class recordings

These classes are not recorded.

Imperial certificates

There are no examinations or assessments for this course. However, attendance can lead to the award of an Imperial attendance certificate (T&Cs apply).