Canterbury Tales Character Profiles

A set of vocabulary flashcards defining key traits and flaws of characters from Chaucer's Canterbury Tales based on the lecture notes.

Knight

His honorable image is built around warfare and violence.

Squire

More focused on romance, appearance, and impressing people than duty.

Prioress

Supposed to be humble, but obsessed with appearances, manners, and luxury.

Monk

Supposed to live simply, but loves hunting, wealth, and luxury.

Friar

Supposed to help the poor, but exploits people and takes money.

Merchant

Acts wealthy and successful, but is secretly in debt.

Clerk

Values books and learning so much that he neglects practical needs.

Man of Law

Acts extremely important and busy, but Chaucer hints that this is exaggerated.

Franklin

Excessively focused on food, pleasure, and luxury.

Guildsmen

More concerned with status and appearing successful than humility.

Cook

Excellent cook, but has a disgusting sore on his leg.

Shipman

Skilled sailor, but dishonest and a thief.

Doctor

Supposed to heal people, but primarily motivated by money.

Wife of Bath

Advocates for female independence, but uses manipulation to control her husbands.

Parson

No major flaw; he genuinely practices what he preaches.

Plowman

No major flaw; genuinely hardworking, charitable, and good.