Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales
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Read your character’s description in “The General Prologue.”
Conduct limited research using the prescribed sources.
Utilize the provided questions to help guide you to important information.
Create a critical note for your pilgrim like those shown below.
Submit an electronic copy to Mr. Kelly by 11:59 PM on _______________________.
Send a copy to www.turnitin.com.
Create an original caricature to share with the class on _____________________.
KNIGHT (103-4)
Description: Although Chaucer often uses physical description to reveal character, there is little
to none here. Chaucer only reveals “he was not gaily dressed” and wore a stained tunic.
Character: At first glance, the Knight appears to be the epitome of chivalry. The portrait is twofold: a flattering list of superlatives (honorable, distinguished, courteous, noble, etc…) and an
impressive array of battles. In fact, most critics see this pilgrim as an idealized portrait. However,
Terry Jones (of Monty Python fame) suggests a different interpretation. Looking more closely
reveals a more mercenary soldier. None of the battles listed is fought for God, king, or country.
They were disputes between petty warlords. The knight is also linked to the word “sovereign”
twice, which means not just “kingly” but also a form of money in England. What emerges is an
ambiguous character: this is not really a knight in shining armor; he, like his armor, is stained by
greed.
Critical note by Mr. Kelly
YEOMAN (105)
The yeoman is a servant for the Knight.
Description: a tanned man wearing green clothing (think Robin Hood) adorned with hunting
implements
Character: Chaucer provides no clear character here; instead he provides a description of the
Yeoman’s gear: a silver hunting horn, a “mighty bow” with arrows, and a Saint Christopher medal
(patron saint of travelers and foresters). The Yeoman is a forester who traps/hunts to provide
food for the Knight and Squire.
Critical note by Mr. Kelly
Kelly’s
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