* Breaking with Tradition: At the time, writing in English was considered less prestigious than writing in French or Latin. These were the languages of scholarship, literature, and the court. Chaucer, however, wanted to create a work that was accessible to a wider audience, including those who were not fluent in the other languages.
* Promoting the English Language: By writing in English, Chaucer was helping to elevate the status of the language and contribute to its development as a literary medium. This was a crucial step in establishing English as the language of literature in England.
* Connecting with His Audience: By writing in the language of the common people, Chaucer was able to create a more intimate and relatable connection with his readers. He used colloquialisms, proverbs, and other elements of everyday speech to make his stories more engaging and realistic.
* National Identity: Chaucer's use of English also contributed to a sense of national identity. By celebrating the language and culture of England, he helped to solidify a shared sense of belonging among his countrymen.
* The Patronage of the Royal Family: It is also important to note that Chaucer was a member of the royal court and had the patronage of King Edward III. This provided him with the opportunity and freedom to experiment with language and push boundaries.
In short, Chaucer's decision to write *The Canterbury Tales* in English was a deliberate and significant act that had profound implications for the development of the English language and literature.