The Canterbury Tales is considered Chaucer’s masterpiece for several reasons. First, it marks the beginnings of a new tradition: Chaucer was the first writer to use English in a major literary work. Secondly, it gives a picture of a cross-section of society during the 1300s. Finally, it is a detailed, lifelike, and engaging picture. Chaucer lets his characters speak as they might actually talk. This was risky because they did not always talk in a polite way, which could offend some readers. Chaucer acknowledges this fact himself:
. . . I rehearse
Their tales as told, for better or for worse,
For else I should be false to what occurred.
So if this tale had better not be heard,
Just turn the page and choose another sort;
You’ll find them here in plenty, long and short;
Many historical, that will profess
Morality, good breeding, saintliness.
Do not blame me if you should choose amiss.
Some critics were shocked by the earthy language and humor in certain stories, but even more were captivated by the characters, stories, and the language itself.
1. Diction Lesson
2. Have students freewrite a description of Death
3. Share some urban legends with the class: the hook, the kidney, Disneyland child snatching, etc. Point out what urban legends have in common with the Pardoner's Tale--their purpose is to caution against certain behavior.
4. Characteristics of an urban legend or cautionary tale
happens to a friend of a friend
credible: although unlikely it could happen
involves something horrifying or bizarre
involves an unexpected twist
purpose: to teach a lesson.
5. Read the prologue to The Pardoner's Tale
6. Read The Pardoner's Tale. Does this tale seem to suit his personality/lifestyle? Why and why not? Why do the students think he tells THIS tale?
Collect death description as an exit pass.
