Parliament of Fowls

(Geoffrey Chaucer)

Read the questions and answer comprehensively.

1. Who is the narrator of the story? What happened to him?

 Geoffrey Chaucer is the narrator and author of the poem, which depicts a group of birds
who congregate in the early spring - on'seynt valentynes day' – to choose their mates for
the year. Whether or not this was the experience that inspired Chaucer to compose the
poem, it is obvious that it is a lighthearted and at times philosophical examination of the
concept of love.

2. Given the characteristics of Goddess Nature as overseer of the birds, to whom will
you equal her in our present age or even in your life? Why?

 If I had to compare myself to the Goddess Nature in my life, it would be my independent

self as a mature woman, finally having the authority to choose your own pathway from
every first experience of your life and to learn and explore, and most importantly, to
know your decisions.

3. If you are the female eagle, would you make the same decision as her?

 Yes, I would act in the same way as the female eagle; it is necessary to take a break from
everything in order to liberate your thoughts and rest your mind, body, and spirit so that
you are not under pressure to make a decision.

4. Among the three male eagles (first eagle is the richest of them all, second eagle loves the
female eagle deeply, and third eagle loves the female eagle the longest), who would you choose
to be your mate? Why?

 I chose the first eagle because it represents the practicality of reality. Being financially
secure is a dream that has many multiple perspectives. Money is the most valuable asset a
person can have since it provides you with what you require. It doesn't offer you
everything you want, but it depends on how you use it.
5. Why everyone in the assembly is so engaged in debating who among the three
Male eagles should be chosen by the beautiful female eagle? Did their opinions matter?

 The debate is around the eagles' opposition to traditional courtly love, which often
includes a man picking a woman to love for his own gain while she has little voice in the
matter. The poem can be read in a variety of ways. Despite the day-long debate, the
speeches and deliberations are meaningless in the end.

 Other readings are written from a feminist perspective. Was Chaucer making a feminist
message by allowing the fermel to make the final decision in an era when women had
little agency? She obtained what she wanted while not upsetting herself by postponing
her decision.