Chaucer's Character Analysis Quiz

The Wife of Bath

• A seamstress skilled in marriage; married five times and experienced in love affairs.
• Presents herself as marriage-loving yet enjoys rich attire and engaging in conversations and arguments.
• Notable physical traits include deafness in one ear and a gap between her front teeth, which was attractive in Chaucer's era.
• Undertaken pilgrimages to Jerusalem three times and traveled extensively throughout Europe.
• Advocates for women's sovereignty, emphasizing control and authority over personal choices in marriage.

The Pardoner

• Sells indulgences, exploiting religious beliefs to profit dishonestly from others.
• In "The Pardoner's Tale," a man buys poison to eliminate his companions and retain treasure; his greed leads to mutual destruction.
• The tale highlights that greed, or avarice, is the source of evil, showcasing the corruptive influence of wealth.
• Ironically, the Pardoner preaches against greed while embodying it, using his position for financial gain.

The Miller

• A robust working-class character who manages a grain mill, depicted as brawny with a distinctive nose and beard.
• Represents the laboring class and its significance in medieval society.

The Pilgrims Gather

• 29 pilgrims meet at the Tabard Inn in Southwark, England, preparing for a journey to Canterbury.
• Each character is intricately described, showcasing diverse social statuses and personalities reflective of medieval society.

The Host’s Proposal

• Harry Bailly, the innkeeper, suggests each pilgrim tell two tales on the way to Canterbury and two on the return trip.
• The best storyteller will be rewarded with a free meal upon their return, establishing the framework for the tales that follow.

Chaucer (The Narrator)

• Functions both as a narrator and participant; presents himself as gregarious and somewhat naïve in the General Prologue.

The Knight

• First pilgrim introduced; celebrated for bravery, experience, and prudence.
• "The Knight’s Tale" features cousins Palamon and Arcite, rivals in love for Emelye, leading to themes of chivalry and fate.

The Miller’s Tale

• Central theme revolves around deception and trickery.
• Characters include John, Alison, Nicholas, and Absolon, highlighting intrigue and farcical elements within relationships.

The Squire

• Young noble in training, his tale, "The Squire's Tale," involves magical adventures but remains unfinished.

The Yeoman

• Although his tale is not explicitly included in the manuscript, it suggests themes of chivalry and adventure; he is described as a knowledgeable forester.

The Prioress

• Holds a leading role in a religious community; "The Prioress's Tale" narrates the tragic story of a young Christian boy murdered for his faith.

The Second Nun

• "The Second Nun's Tale" celebrates Saint Cecilia, who remains devoted to her faith amid persecution and martyrdom, emphasizing steadfastness in belief.