Chaucerian and Other Pieces: Being a Supplement to the Complete Works of Geoffrey Chaucer

"Chaucerian and Other Pieces" by Walter W. Skeat is a scholarly collection of medieval literary works written in the late 19th century. This volume serves as a supplement to Geoffrey Chaucer's complete works, bringing together various texts attributed to Chaucer and other contemporary poets, providing important context for the understanding of Middle English literature. It includes detailed introductions and notes that clarify authorship, historical significance, and textual history, making it a valuable resource for those interested in medieval English poetry and its contributors. The opening of this anthology sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of works appending Chaucer’s canon. It begins with a thorough introduction, outlining the structure of the collection and the variances in attribution throughout different historical editions of Chaucer's works. Skeat emphasizes the importance of discerning which texts are genuinely Chaucerian and analyzes the contributions of other writers, including Thomas Usk and John Gower, while also detailing the literary significance and thematic concerns of each included piece. This foundation helps contextualize the various texts in the broader medieval literary landscape, highlighting the intricacies of authorship and textual transmission during that period.