Question

Based upon the Narrator’s descriptions of the Prioress, the Archdeacon, the Friar, and the Pardoner, how would you characterize the clergy of Chaucer’s time? Use descriptions of these characters from the General Prologue in support of your opinion.

Answer 1

Chaucer uses the narrator and the prologue to show that the clergy were suspiciously pretentious during his time. The Prioress acts like a noble although she is supposed to be a model of humility.The Archdeacon is a part of the Friar's Tale. He abuses his authority and shows great greediness by "punishing lepers."The Friar is also very greedy because he profits from those who pay for repentance.The Pardorner tells people about the evils of money but does not believe in them.