The problem is I don't know how to answer this question.
Many writers create characters who are blissfully unaware of how they are perceived by others. One of the most complex examples of this is Chaucer's Pardoner. In one character we see a complex mix of what he is, what he is supposed to be, what he thinks he is, and how he is perceived by others. Trace the way Chaucer achieves this in the setup of the entire Canterbury Tales, and the Pardoner's Prologue and Tale.
Can you help me understand this prompt
You're being asked to focus on The Pardoner's Prologue and The Pardoner's Tale.
Write about how he sees himself and how other see him. They will be different. It would probably be a good idea to read about what a pardoner SHOULD have been doing, as well. Then you can write your paper contrasting what he is vs. what he is supposed to be.
Read about the Pardoner here:
http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/canterbury/
and
http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/canterbury/
(Fragment VI Group C)
And read several explanations of what a pardoner was and was supposed to do among these search results:
http://www.google.com/search?sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&q=medieval+pardoner
Then make an outline, having a section for each of the following:
~ what was a pardoner supposed to be and do
~ how the Pardoner is portrayed by Chaucer
1. How other pilgrims saw him
2. How he saw himself
Once you read enough and get your thoughts in order, you should do well. But do not try to write this without doing enough background reading or without organizing (planning) your thoughts first.
Of course! I can help you understand the prompt.
The prompt is asking you to analyze how Geoffrey Chaucer, the author of "The Canterbury Tales," creates a complex character named the Pardoner who is unaware of how he is perceived by others. It specifically asks you to trace Chaucer's technique in setting up the entire collection of stories, as well as the specific sections dedicated to the Pardoner - the Prologue and the Tale.
To effectively answer this question, you will need to closely examine Chaucer's writing techniques, character development, and the interactions between the Pardoner and other characters. Pay attention to how Chaucer presents the Pardoner's thoughts, actions, and perception by others.
In order to start your analysis, you should read and study "The Canterbury Tales" thoroughly. Take note of the overall structure and how Chaucer introduces the different characters at the beginning of the tales. As you analyze the Pardoner's Prologue and Tale, pay attention to Chaucer's descriptive language, use of irony, and the Pardoner's interactions with other pilgrims in their storytelling framework. Look for clues that highlight the Pardoner's lack of self-awareness and how others perceive him.
In addition to analyzing the text itself, you can consider researching literary criticism and scholarly articles on "The Canterbury Tales" or the character of the Pardoner. This will provide you with different interpretations and analyses that can support your own understanding and insights.
Remember, when answering this question, it is crucial to provide specific examples from the text to support your analysis. Quote relevant passages or describe scenes that demonstrate Chaucer's techniques in creating the Pardoner's complex mix of self-perception, perception by others, and the expectations placed upon him.