Book I Summary

The first book of "Troilus and Criseyde" sets the stage by introducing Troilus and depicting his first sight of Criseyde, with whom he falls instantly in love. It is this consuming love that drives the action for the rest of the poem.

Chaucer begins the poem with a brief introduction addressed directly to the reader, outlining the sorrowful story he intends to tell about Troilus and his "love-adventure...from grief to joy, and, after, out of joy," (p. 3) Chaucer calls on anyone who has been in love to remember the story of Troilus and Criseyde, and expresses his hope that his poem may provide comfort for those who have loved and lost.

The poem opens during the Trojan war, the ancient battle that ensues when the Greeks attack the city of Troy. A Trojan priest named Calkas learns through prophecy that...