The English author John Gower (ca. 1330-1408) was one of the major court poets of the 14th century. His poems are not so vigorous as Chaucer's, but his criticism of his contemporaries is more direct.V...
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John Gower is one of the three or four major poets of the English fourteenth century. The canon of his writings is large, and the influence of his work on subsequent generations of writers is substant...
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In the following essay, Grady argues that “In Praise of Peace” shows Gower's loyalty to the Lancastrian dynasty at a time when its existence seemed very tenuous.
Giving advice ...
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In the following essay, Axton determines that Gower was indebted to Chaucer, despite being the elder poet.
The idea of Gower as Chaucer's heir looks at first unpromising. It seems that Gower...
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In the following essay, Dean examines Gower's application of the rhyme royal verse form, particularly its use for specific types of poems.
Everyone knows that Chaucer was one of the first us...
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In the following essay, Olsson considers Gower's works in light of his presentation of intimacy and love and the many different forms that each can take.
Recent discussions of intimacy and t...
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In the following excerpt, Echard maintains that Gower's use of Latin in his Vox Clamantis and other works represents an integral part of the poet's expression of complex political ideas ...
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In the following essay, Owen considers the French influence on Gower's methods of versification, particularly on his stylistic use of rhyme.
Courtly poetry in English had its birth in the mi...
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John Gower
John Gower
Critical Essay by Frank Grady
