Question

1. You have learned a little bit about many of the characters in The Canterbury Tales, and you have learned a lot about the Wife of Bath through her own tale. Now you will return to “The Prologue” and make a prediction about the type of story another character might tell. Choose one of the following characters: • Knight • Squire • Miller • Parson • Pardoner You have already gotten started on this assignment without realizing it! Return to the notes you took as you read “The Prologue.” Use them as you describe in your own words the character you have chosen to write about. Then, explain what kind of story you think that character will tell, using textual evidence from “The Prologue” to support your prediction.

Answer 1

Squire With him there was his son, a youthful squire, A lover and a lusty bachelor, With locks well curled, as if they'd laid in press. Some twenty years of age he was, I guess. In stature he was of an average length, Wondrously active, aye, and great of strength. He'd ridden sometime with the cavalry In Flanders, in Artois, and Picardy, And borne him well within that little space In hope to win thereby his lady's grace. Prinked out he was, as if he were a mead, All full of fresh-cut flowers white and red. Singing he was, or fluting, all the day; He was as fresh as is the month of May. Short was his gown, with sleeves both long and wide. Well could be sit on horse, and fairly ride. He could make songs and words thereto indite, Joust, and dance too, as well as sketch and write. So hot he loved that, while night told her tale, He slept no more than does a nightingale. Courteous he, and humble, willing and able, And carved before his father at the table.