In lines 43-446 of the Prologue to The Canterbury Tales, we are introduced to more than a dozen 14th century characters. Chaucer is noted for using details to make his characters realistic and lifelike.
Choose one character (Knight, Squire, Yeoman, Prioress, etc.) and discuss how the details Chaucer chooses make the character into an individual. How do Chaucer's descriptions make a social commentary on roles in Medieval life?
In the Canterbury Tales, the Parson is one of the few genuinely good religious people making the trip to St. Becket’s grave. The Monk seems disdainful of his duties; the Prioress is more concerned with appearing dignified; the Friar, Summoner and Pardoner all blatantly exploit their positions for personal and monetary gain. In contrast, Chaucer describes the Parson as poor in money but “riche of … holy thought and werk. (Line 489)” He doesn’t seem to care much for material wealth at all. He doesn’t threaten those who don’t pay their tithes nor rent out his parish so he may take a more lucrative job elsewhere. In fact, he is willing to give “unto his poore parisshens aboute/ Of his offring and eek of his substaunce (Lines 491-492)” because he only needs very little to survive sufficiently.
ReplyDeleteRather than luxuriate in the material world, the Parson spends all of his time and energy as a model citizen and clergyman. He lives by the principle that as a religious leader, he must set an example for his parishioners so that they know how they ought to live their lives, for “if gold ruste, what shal iren do (Line 502)?” He remains holy and virtuous despite the numerous oppurtunities for corruption. When confronted with a sinner, he does not look down upon them. However, if they are being stubborn, he is willing to give them a necessary lecture. Chaucer states there probably isn’t a better priest anywhere because the Parson follows his own teachings.