John Gower: Biography and Works (1325?—1408)

John Gower, born around 1325 and passing in 1408, was a significant figure in English poetry, contributing alongside Geoffrey Chaucer to the development of Middle English literature. While Chaucer's influence was profound, Gower's works, including Speculum Meditantis , Vox Clamantis , and Confessio Amantis , stand as notable achievements in French, Latin, and English respectively. Gower's style was deeply rooted in allegory, a technique that synthesized classical and Biblical traditions to explore societal and spiritual themes, reflecting on issues within the church, state, and common life. Life Details about Gower's early life are scant. He likely hailed from an affluent family in Kent and possibly practiced law in London, evident from his familiarity with urban life portrayed in his poetry. Gower's association with royalty, particularly Richard II, is well-documented. Richard's commissioning of Confessio Amantis following a chance encounter on the Thames reflects Go…