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

Sample Response: Chaucer uses satire in his characterization of the Pardoner to criticize the Church. The Pardoner’s sermon against greed humorously contrasts with his exaggerated greediness. Chaucer creates such an excessively greedy character to draw attention to real corruption in the Church and to bring about change.