Saturday, January 4, 2020

Chaucers Views Exposed in The Canterbury Tales Essay

Chaucers Views Exposed in The Canterbury Tales The Canterbury Tales were written and pieced together in the late 1380s, early 1390s. The author of the book is Geoffrey Chaucer. When considering the structure of the tales, one can deduce that they were put together using Framework Narrative, a very unique style of writing. The opening prologue speaks of 29 pilgrims, including Chaucer, who are all on a pilgrimage to Canterbury. All of them are seeking a certain shrine for spiritual cleansing, and relief. The journey was to be long, but in the end it would all be worth it. Chaucers social views and prejudices are revealed through his description of the pilgrims in The Canterbury Tales. Chaucer presents†¦show more content†¦At this point, one might construe that social status is somewhat important to Chaucer. Chaucers view of the clergy class is not as positive as his view of the ruling class. For example, Chaucer describes the Prioress/Nun using a great amount of satire. He speaks of how the nun has excellent etiquette and manners. She tries so hard to be respected and viewed as one with higher status. Her character is best described in the quote:  · She took pains to imitate court behavior, to be dignified in bearing and to be considered worthy of respect.(Chaucer Pg. 3-Line 26) He says that the Monk deviated from traditional requirements expected of a monk, such as hunting, and roaming throughout life beyond monastery walls. A quote that best describes the monk is:  · Why should he study and drive himself crazy, always poring over a book in his cloister, or work and slave with his hands as St. Augustine orders? (Chaucer Pg. 4-Line 21) The Friar was the worst of them all. He was a gossiper, he was evil in his ways of offering absolution, and he took advantage of people, rich and poor. He indulged in secular pleasures, and he only wanted to work with the rich for what he could gain. He refused to work with the poor, for they were all Lepers! and were no help when a man is trying to improve his social status. He was an extremely cunning man, and a quote that fits himShow MoreRelatedChaucers View of Women Exposed in The Canterbury Tales778 Words   |  4 Pageswho break out of the stereotypical â€Å"good wife† mold. When an author uses this technique effectively, the woman often carries the story. In Geoffrey Chaucers Canterbury Tales, he portrays the Wife of Bath, Alison, as a woman who bucks the tradition of her times with her brashness and desire for control. Chaucer effectively presents a womans point of view and evokes some sympathy for her. In the authors time, much of the literature was devoted to validating the frailties of women. However, inRead MoreGeoffrey Chaucers Use of Characterization Essay1308 Words   |  6 Pagesappealed to those of all walks of life. 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