Yes, 'The Canterbury Tales' is often regarded as one of the first works that can be considered a novel. It has many elements that are characteristic of the novel form. It features a collection of stories told by a diverse group of pilgrims, which gives it a complex narrative structure similar to what we expect in novels today.
No, it isn't. The Canterbury Tales is more like a anthology of separate tales. It showcases a wide range of characters and their narratives, rather than following the typical structure of a novel.
The Canterbury Tales is an interesting mix. It's not purely a poem or a novel. It's a compilation of stories told by different characters in various styles.
The Canterbury Tales' stands out as a possible first novel because of several things. Firstly, the variety of stories within the single work. There are tales of love, morality, humor, and more. Secondly, the way the characters interact with each other during the pilgrimage. Their conversations and relationships add depth. Also, Chaucer's use of satire and social commentary was innovative. He was able to criticize and comment on the society of his time through these stories, which is a feature often found in novels.
Definitely fiction. The Canterbury Tales presents imaginative and often humorous narratives that are crafted by the author's creativity rather than being based on real events or people.