English - The Prologue to the Canterbury Tales

What time of the year is it at the beginning of the prologue?

Spring (April, Spring represents new beginnings; it is motivating and the best time to go on a pilgrimage during springtime

Where do the pilgrims gather before beginning their journey?

Southwark Inn

What is the purpose of their trip?

To visit the cathedral of Saint Thomas Becket

How does the narrator establish the setting and mood in the opening section of the Prologue?

He describes warm spring weather, birds and flowers represent spring

What does the narrator reveal about the Knight’s character through his description of the Knight’s clothing, behavior, and military experience?

He fought in many battles, has courage, owns so much wealth. But, he dresses in course clothing - he’s very modest

How is the Squire different from his father, the Knight?

He is inexperienced and young, humble and serious, interested in art/fashion —> he’s a lover

What qualities make the Yeoman an effective servant or companion for the Knight and Squire?

He was well-equipped with a bow and arrow, has a lot of knowledge, equipped with many weapons

How does Chaucer describe the Prioress?

She smiles simply, but she seemed to be completely flawless. She is very concerned with manners. She seemed to care more about what she wore than her devotion to religion.

What does the narrator’s description of the Monk suggest about the Monk’s attitude toward traditional religious rules?

He is more MODERN, he does not take traditional rules seriously. He prefers hunting and luxury

How is the Friar presented?

he is good at cover sating but he is dishonest. He cares about money and gifts (he is very convincing); takes money

Describe the merchant. What does the narrator suggest about the Merchant’s success and financial situation?

He seems to appear to be successful to others, but deep down he is in debt, good at negotiation

How does Chaucer use physical appearance to characterizes the Clerk of Oxford?

Very thin, he cares about religion more than looks

What does the Clerk of Oxford value most?

studying

What does the Wife of Bath’s description reveal about her personality, experiences, and social status?

She is confident, outspoken, and she likes to be in control, cares about appearance; cares about social status but she is LIKEABLE

How is the Parson different?

he is the only genuine character, he is pious, selfless, and dedicated to his practice of preaching

What is ironic about the Pardoner’s occupation and the way he makes money?

He preaches against greed to make people feel guilty, but he scams people out of his own greed to make money (sells fake relics)

What is the history timeline behind this story?

dark history Church dark with corruption

Why is indirect characterization better than direct characterization?

it gives people clues to let them figure out everything themselves, opinions

What is Chaucer’s overall attitude toward the pilgrims?

He is exposing their flaws but praising them at the same time