Canterbury Tales Prologue Characters

Knight

• Distinguished and follows chivalric values including truth, honor, and generosity; described as "a perfect gentle-knight."
• Experience in 15 battles showcases bravery and commitment to his faith.
• Humble demeanor contrasted with fine horses; doesn't dress showily, indicating modesty.

Squire

• Young son of the knight, characterized by curly hair and agility; an amateur soldier.
• Pursues women and seeks "lady's grace," revealing a flirtatious nature.
• Skillful in artistic pursuits and athletic activities like dancing and jousting, indicating talent.

Yeoman

• Companion of the knight; resembles Robin Hood and is identified as a "proper forester."
• Dressed in a green coat and equipped with various hunting gear, showcasing professionalism.
• Tanned complexion suggests extensive outdoor work in forestry.

Prioress

• Named Madam Eglantyne; speaks French poorly and is described as pleasantly friendly but overweight.
• Exhibits strict etiquette, showing a preoccupation with manners; cries for injured animals, indicating sensitivity.
• Attempts to present a dignified image despite unattractive features; reflects insincerity in her sophistication.

Monk

• Described as a personable, well-dressed man, diverging from typical monastic values such as humility and modest lifestyle.
• Enjoys hunting and modern luxuries, indicating a rebellious nature against traditional church values.

Friar

• A limiter (licensed beggar) who is festive and well-liked but morally dubious.
• Engages in relationships and gives gifts to women, contradicting his vow of poverty.
• Prefers socializing in taverns over aiding the needy, displaying a selfish character.

Merchant

• Opinionated and skilled in foreign exchange; maintains a confident image despite being in debt.
• Dressed in a motley ensemble with an extravagant hat, indicating a desire to project wealth.

Clerk

• A student, described as skinny and threadbare, reflecting a life dedicated to studies over material needs.
• Prioritizes education over personal care; gratitude towards friends who support him financially highlights his humility.

Sergeant of Law

• Wise and respected, highly knowledgeable about legal cases and judgments.
• Wealth indicated through fine clothing; notable for owning land without financial burdens.

Franklin

• Wealthy landowner who seeks pleasure; known for being sociable and generous with food and drink.
• Held various public positions, indicating a role in community service.

Cook

• Works alone with notable culinary skills but struggles financially, as evidenced by an ulcer on his knee.
• Good at distinguishing flavors, but the state of his kitchen suggests neglect due to poverty.

Shipman

• West country sailor, skilled in navigation but morally ambiguous due to theft and fighting.
• Knowledgeable about tides and currents, demonstrating expertise in his profession.

Wife of Bath

• Accomplished clothmaker, experienced in relationships with five husbands and extensive travel.
• Well-dressed and social, her extensive knowledge of love reflects wisdom gained through life experiences.

Parson

• Holy figure committed to his faith, known for being virtuous and generous despite his own poverty.
• Examples a lifestyle of altruism, helping the needy and practicing religious teachings genuinely.

Plowman

• Honest worker, brother to the Parson; represents the ideal of humility and hard work.
• Pious individual who contributes to society without complaint, highlighting selflessness.

Miller

• Physically imposing and boastful, known for dishonesty in business dealings.
• Characteristics include greed and arrogance, exemplified by stealing and overpricing grain.

Reeve

• Aging estate manager known for his sharp intellect and secretive methods.
• Wealthy, feared for his deceptive practices, which highlight a self-serving disposition.

Summoner

• Decrepit figure with an unpleasant appearance, notorious for corrupt practices in church-related matters.
• Manipulates vulnerable individuals for personal gain, reflecting a lack of integrity and morality.

Pardoner

• Accompanying the Summoner, characterized by smooth speech and deceptive practices.
• Exploits religious authority for profit through the sale of fake relics, indicating a profound disrespect for piety.

Host

• Charismatic leader, known for his cheerful personality and influential presence among the other characters.
• Encourages camaraderie and revelry throughout the journey, highlighting his role as a unifying figure.