Question

A) Determine two or more themes or central ideas of a text.

Answer 1

1. The Prioress's description reveals the theme of delicacy, modesty and elegance that the churches represented. Although Catholicism preached the benefits of poverty, the church was elegant, beautiful, with a noble appearance, but modest behavior, just as the Prioress represented. She also shows the ideal feminine standard for the time, being highly praised, but chaste and modest.

2. The monk also suggests the refinement and wealth that could be observed in churches. However, the monk preaches about the benefits of poverty, which can show the inconsistency and hypocrisy that the clergy presented, this is also reinforced by the fact that the monk does not present himself as an evil character, but we also cannot say that there is goodness in him.

3. The friar represents the ambition of the churches, since he shows himself as a charming and wise man, but he is disguised and pretended and is always ready to hamper the faithful and use their faith to obtain large collections that increase their wealth.

4. Parson represents the goodness and faithfulness of the church in following the principles of christ, helping the poor, being honest and upright. He is described as a man of God, who has not been corrupted by wealth, lives a humble life and helps the faithful without asking for large payments.