How do I effectively analyse a pre-modern English text, e.g. Chaucer, Sir Gawain?

Analysis of pre-modern (i.e. middle English) texts, though sharing some characteristics with that of modern texts, requires a specific approach. Firstly, a functional knowledge of context is invaluable, and should be the starting point for any text. This includes cultural and political context, as well as religious, moral, and literary traditions. In the example of Chaucer or the Gawain poet, a rudimentary knowledge of Christianity will be required to understand the texts fully, with Christian imagery and themes e.g. the garden of Eden and the Fall of Man, being invaluable for interpretation.
A thorough grounding in literary techniques such as allegory, and an understanding of the difference between modern attempts at psychological realism and pre-modern reliance on symbolism will also be crucial. However, when tackling these texts, a student should always remember not to approach the topic as absolutely foreign, or treat the texts too reverentially; pre-modern authors may use humour, irony, irreverence, and literary tricks to toy with the reader, much as a modern author would. These factors kept in mind, the analysis of any pre-modern texts, and possibly even modern ones, will be far less daunting to any student.