A Web-quest for English 404-604 British Literature

Featuring the

Medieval Period Background  

Before we begin to read Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, the premier Medieval satire, it is critical for you to have a feel for the political scene, the social structure, and the prevailing customs of the Middle Ages.  Usually, I ask that students read the Medieval Period background in the text, take notes, and listen to what I think is a fascinating lecture on the material.

However, since I , too, must move out of the Dark Ages of the Twentieth Century, I would like you to pursue this information Holy Grail style--you will go on a quest.  (Actually, this quest idea is really old; Richard the Lion-Heart was on one while his brother John was usurping the throne.  You've seen Robin Hood, right?)

Your common group task, whether or not you choose to accept, is to research your assigned portion of the Medieval background terminology, and to produce a lively presentation that explains the material in an engaging and entertaining manner.  You will be given three days in class to accomplish this task.  The first day should be used for research. Divide and conquer--each member should attack some facet of the assigned material.  The second day should be allocated to preparing your presentation.  On the third day, you will be presenting your masterpiece.

In addition to explaining relevant Medieval information, I would like you to theorize about your probable living conditions and life expectancy if you had been born  circa 1066.  In the final analysis, would fate have been kind to you, or would you have been just another Medieval statistic?

The powers that be (like me, for instance) will randomly assign you to a "social class" in Merry Old England, using the playing card method I always use. The first card turned over becomes the Materials Manager, the second becomes the Time Keeper, the third becomes the Organizer, the fourth becomes the Encourager, and the fifth becomes the Reporter.  (I am sure you remember the function of these roles from our last group project.) Your group is responsible for researching the various websites I have provided, as well as any other historical/literary sites you can find, in order to construct an explanation of the significance of each entry under your heading.  Be sure that you provide the website address if it is one that you have found.  Also include any fascinating tidbits that students might be interested in, not just facts I am looking for. 

When you have compiled your information, present it in an interesting format.  You will have approximately 10 minutes per group.  Consider formulating a power point presentation, performing a short skit (in costume, of course), or using a game show/talk show format.  Whatever you choose, be advised that your group is responsible for covering the assigned material thoroughly enough so that class members will do well on a 25 point quiz.  The reason for researching history in an English class should become clear to you as we begin to study Chaucer; you won't understand all of his wicked satire if you don't know something about the time period.

Oh, and did I mention that each group member will complete a self-assessment form to reflect on how valuable he/she was to the process? (15 points)  And, of course, there will be a larger evaluation to assess your group's performance (30 points).  I am sure that you are all anxious to begin.  While you have been reading this, I have been shuffling the cards.  Your destiny is in fate's hand.

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