The Canterbury Tales is a collection of stories written by Geoffrey Chaucer in the late 14th century. It is framed as a storytelling contest among a group of pilgrims traveling to the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket in Canterbury. Each character shares their tale, reflecting their social class and personality, providing a vivid picture of medieval life. The work consists of 24 stories, showcasing a variety of genres, including romance, comedy, and morality tales. The diverse characters, such as the Knight, the Miller, and the Wife of Bath, offer insights into the complexities of human nature and societal norms of the time.