"The Canterbury Tales" is a collection of stories written by Geoffrey Chaucer in the late 14th century. It is one of the most famous works of Middle English literature and is considered a masterpiece of English literature as a whole. The book is set within a framing narrative, where a group of pilgrims traveling to the shrine of Thomas Becket in Canterbury engage in a storytelling contest. The structure of "The Canterbury Tales" revolves around a diverse group of characters from different social classes and occupations, each telling a story during their journey. Chaucer introduces a wide range of characters, including knights, clerics, merchants, millers, and more. Each character's story reflects their personality, social status, and worldview, offering a vivid depiction of medieval society. The stories themselves cover a broad spectrum of genres, including romance, comedy, tragedy, and moral allegory. They touch on various themes such as love, honor, deception, power, and the complexities of human nature. Some of the most well-known tales within the collection include "The Knight's Tale," "The Miller's Tale," "The Wife of Bath's Tale," and "The Pardoner's Tale." "The Canterbury Tales" provides a rich tapestry of medieval life, offering insights into the social, cultural, and moral values of the time. Chaucer's work is renowned for its vibrant characters, intricate narrative structure, and its blend of humor, satire, and profound observations on human nature. It continues to be studied, read, and enjoyed by scholars, students, and literary enthusiasts to this day.