The Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Saint Thomas Becket in The Canterbury Tales

Which martyred saint were the pilgrims in The Canterbury Tales traveling to pay homage to?

Answer: The pilgrims in 'The Canterbury Tales' were traveling to the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral.

About Saint Thomas Becket

Saint Thomas Becket was a martyred saint whose shrine was located in Canterbury Cathedral. He was the Archbishop of Canterbury in the 12th century and was murdered in the cathedral in 1170. The pilgrimage to his shrine was a common practice in the Middle Ages, as believers sought to pay homage to saints and view holy relics.

The Canterbury Pilgrimage

The pilgrimage to the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral was the central theme of Geoffrey Chaucer's famous narrative poem, 'The Canterbury Tales.' The poem depicts a diverse group of characters from different walks of life who undertake the journey to Canterbury together.

During the Middle Ages, pilgrimages were popular ways for believers to express their devotion to saints and seek spiritual blessings. The pilgrimage to Canterbury Cathedral was particularly significant due to the martyrdom of Saint Thomas Becket and the presence of his shrine.

Legacy

Saint Thomas Becket's legacy as a martyr and saint continues to resonate to this day. The pilgrimage to his shrine in Canterbury Cathedral remains a popular destination for tourists and believers alike, attracting visitors from around the world.

By learning more about Saint Thomas Becket and the pilgrimage depicted in 'The Canterbury Tales,' we can gain a deeper understanding of the religious practices and cultural beliefs of the Middle Ages.