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Question

Difficulty: MediumLanguage, Literature and Culture

In the late Middle Ages, the English language began to replace French and Latin in official and literary life. This shift was greatly accelerated when William Caxton introduced the printing press to England in 14761476. Which famous work, written by Geoffrey Chaucer, was the first book to be printed in England?

  1. The Canterbury TalesAnswer
  2. B
    Hamlet
  3. C
    The Domesday Book
  4. D
    The Magna Carta

Answer

The Canterbury Tales was the first book to be printed in England by William Caxton.
The correct answer is 'The Canterbury Tales' because it was the first book printed in England by William Caxton in 14761476. It was written by Geoffrey Chaucer, who is often called the father of English literature, and its printing marked a major milestone in making English the primary language for literature.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the historical period and technological advancement.
The late Middle Ages and the introduction of the printing press in 14761476.
This sets the context for the first mass-produced English literature.
2
Recall the figure associated with the first English printing press.
William Caxton.
He was the pioneer who brought the technology from Europe to Westminster.
3
Identify the specific literary work chosen for the first printing.
The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer.
Chaucer was the most famous English poet of the time, and his work was highly popular.

Key Concept

The transition from manuscript culture to print culture in England.
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Language, Literature and Culture

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