Chaucer's opinion of the pilgrims is shown through his descriptions of those characters and their tales. Is there a group or social class that seems to be the main focus of his criticism? Give at least two examples of characters in that group or class and how the reader knows that Chaucer is critical of them. (Full credit answers will need to include the class or group, two examples of pilgrims, and the details that tell you Chaucer's opinion.)
One group that seems to be the main focus of Chaucer's criticism in "The Canterbury Tales" is the clergy. Chaucer portrays several clergy members in a negative light, suggesting corruption and hypocrisy within the church.
Example 1: The Pardoner (Clergy)
Chaucer's portrayal of the Pardoner is highly critical. The Pardoner, who is responsible for granting pardons and selling indulgences, is described as having a voice "as small as has a goat," which is an unflattering physical portrayal. Chaucer also highlights the Pardoner's deceitful nature, as he carries fake relics and preaches purely for personal gain, aiming to swindle people out of their money. Chaucer's tone towards the Pardoner is one of scorn and disdain, revealing his criticism of the corrupt practices of the clergy at the time.
Example 2: The Friar (Clergy)
Another clergy member receiving criticism is the Friar. Chaucer describes the Friar as a cunning character who uses his charm to profit from the wealthy. Chaucer points out that instead of focusing on his religious duties, the Friar spends his time socializing with the affluent and collecting donations. The Friar's lack of dedication to his priestly duties and his materialistic tendencies are depicted as signs of his corrupt nature. This portrayal reveals Chaucer's skepticism towards the moral integrity of certain members of the clergy.
In both examples above, Chaucer's critical descriptions and satirical tone emphasize his skepticism of the clergy's motivations, highlighting the corruption and hypocrisy that he perceived within the church and its representatives.
To determine Chaucer's opinion of the different social classes or groups depicted in "The Canterbury Tales," we need to analyze his descriptions of the characters and their tales. While Chaucer does provide criticism towards various individuals, it's important to note that he presents a nuanced portrayal that includes both positive and negative aspects.
That being said, one social class that Chaucer seems to criticize is the clergy, specifically corrupt and hypocritical figures within this group. Two examples of such characters are the Friar and the Pardoner.
The Friar, part of the clergy, is described as a "wantowne" or lustful man with a penchant for extravagance and disregard for his religious duties. Chaucer presents him as being more interested in socializing with the upper class and collecting money from penitents than engaging in genuine religious devotion. This criticism can be seen in his detailed description of the Friar's attire, including "a love-knotte in the gretter ende" and "clot hym ason than velvet." These fashion choices satirize the Friar's vanity and indicate Chaucer's disapproval of his worldly pursuits.
Similarly, the Pardoner, another representative of the clergy, is portrayed as deceitful and manipulative. He sells fake relics and uses fear and guilt to profit from unsuspecting pilgrims. Chaucer reveals his criticism through the Pardoner's appearance, describing him as having "raty heres yelwe as wex" and "bald he was as is a crestrdow." These descriptions highlight the Pardoner's lack of sincerity and emphasize Chaucer's negative view of his character.
While it is important to note that Chaucer's critique is not limited to a single social class or group, his depiction of the Friar and the Pardoner reflects his critical perspective towards certain individuals within the clergy. These characters serve as examples of corruption and hypocrisy, allowing the reader to glimpse Chaucer's opinion through their descriptions and actions.
Chaucer's criticism in "The Canterbury Tales" is primarily directed towards the clergy, specifically the corrupt figures within the Church. Here are two examples of characters belonging to this group and the details that reveal Chaucer's critical viewpoint:
1. The Pardoner: The Pardoner is described as having long, greasy, yellow hair and a high-pitched voice. Chaucer portrays him as a deceitful and fraudulent character who uses religion for personal gain. Chaucer takes a critical stance through vividly depicting the Pardoner's physical appearance and emphasizing his hypocritical actions.
2. The Summoner: Chaucer presents the Summoner as having a fiery-red face, narrow eyes, and a tendency to consume excess garlic and onions. The Summoner is portrayed as corrupt, accepting bribes in return for protecting individuals from ecclesiastical punishment. Chaucer's description of the Summoner's appearance and his actions highlight the mocking and critical tone towards this clergyman.
These examples illustrate Chaucer's negative opinion of the group of clergy, showing his disapproval of their immoral behavior and hypocrisy within religious institutions.