An Analysis of the Characters of The Canterbury Tales :: Canterbury Tales Essays

An Analysis of the Characters of The Canterbury Tales An interesting aspect of the famous literary work, The Canterbury Tales, is the contrast of realistic and exaggerated qualities that Chaucer entitles to each of his temperaments. When viewed more closely, cardinal can determine whether each of the characters is convincing or questionable base on their personalities. This essay will analyze the characteristics and personalities of the Knight, Squire, Monk, Plowman, Miller, and Parson of Chaucers tale. One of Geoffreys little believable main characters is the Knight, for reasons of chivalry. The dub bring outs many traits which make him seem al intimately too good to be true, and a true gentleman that seldom exists in reality. The narrator sums up the knights character by stating that Though he were worthy, he was wys,/And of his port as meeke as is a mayde. (pg. 5, The Canterbury Tales) The knight holds quartet main admirable traits, making him the most liked traveler in T he Canterbury Tales, and also amplying the doubt of his realism. The reader is prepared to learn of each of his master accomplishments and importance when the narrator remarks that A knight ther was, and that a worthy man,/That fro the tyme that he first bigan/To ryden out, he go to sleepd chivalrye,/Trouthe and honour, fredom and curteisye. (pg. 4, The Canterbury Tales) From the characters impressive introduction, it is clear that this man is the most valued and honorable traveler among the group. This perfect gentleman holds a love of ideals that are often not displayed by people. First and foremost, he believes in the ideals of chivalry, and always stays true to its principles. He also feels that one should be honest, truthful and faithful, which many people are not all of these ideals. The knight thinks one should only do what is right, and what will gain him honor and reputation. This character also believes in freedom and generosity towards all, and displays this ideal repeat edly end-to-end the novel. And lastly, the knight also strongly feels that any proper person should display courtesy and elegance at all times. Another aspect of this characters action which makes him seem too prestigious to be truthful is his impressive soldiers career. He fought in the holy war, known as the Crusades and was involved in 15 mortal battles. In the prologue, the narrator informs the reader that Ful worthy was he in his lordes werre,/And therto hadde he riden, no man ferre,/As wel in Cristendom as hethenesse,/And ever honoured for his worthinesse.