Question

Consider Chaucer’s use of satire in The Canterbury Tales. What purpose does this satire serve? Write three to four sentences connecting details from the story to what you know about medieval England.

Answer 1

Chaucer utilizes parody in his portrayal of the Pardoner to censure the Church. The Pardoner's sermon against avarice cleverly diverges from his overstated covetousness. Chaucer makes such an unnecessarily ravenous character to attract consideration regarding genuine debasement in the Church and to realize change.

Answer 2

Throughout The Canterbury Tales, Chaucer employs satire extensively. The main purpose that satire serves in this case os to criticize the vices and folly of society. By using satire, Chaucer can criticize several aspects of Medieval society without being censored. An example would be the way in which Chaucer presents his religious characters. Although they claim to be pious and charitable, they are often vain, arrogant, ambitious and self-indulging.