1. The exact date of Geoffrey Chaucer's birth is uncertain; it is generally given as c. 1340, but it's more likely he was born in 1342 or 1343. Who was king of England when he was born?
- Edward II
- Edward III
- Richard II
- Henry IV
The answer is b. Edward III.
Edward's reign lasted from 1327 to 1377, during which time he drove David II of Scotland into exile, initiated the Hundred Years' War, and founded the Order of the Garter. He was succeeded by his grandson, Richard II.
Geoffrey Chaucer was in service to King Edward III and later to Richard II. Among his various duties were diplomatic courier (which enabled him to visit France and Italy, among other places), comptroller of petty customs, and justice of the peace.
