Canterbury Tales Prologue Characters

Study Notes

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.

Description

Explore the characters of the Prologue in Chaucer's Canterbury Tales through direct and indirect characterization. This quiz focuses on essential attributes and examples that depict the diverse roles and traits of these characters.

Canterbury Tales Prologue Characters

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Questions and Answers

What qualities characterize the Knight?

What is the Squire's relationship to the Knight?

What does the Yeoman carry?

What is the Prioress's name?

The Monk ignores traditional church values.

What does the Friar lack?

The Clerk focuses primarily on ______.

What does the Sergeant of Law know?

What is the Franklin known for?

The Cook is wealthy and well-treated.

What vice does the Shipman display?

How many husbands has the Wife of Bath had?

What is the Parson's key trait?

What does the Plowman do?

The Miller is humble and generous.

What is the Reeve's occupation?

What is the main characteristic of the Summoner?

The Pardoner sells fake ______.

What is the Host's notable personality trait?