The Canterbury Tales
A Page would typically begin his service at the castle at this young age, as seen with Tobias.
What is seven or eight?
This is the original, degrading name the villagers call the protagonist before the midwife names her Beetle.
What is Brat?
The pilgrims are traveling to the shrine of Thomas Becket in this English city.
What is Canterbury?
Tobias records being sent to town to fetch a barber-surgeon, suggesting the castle did not have a permanent one.
What is a Village?
The midwife, Jane Sharp, often accepts payment in the form of food or livestock instead of money.
What is hay (or manure)?
This pilgrim wears a hat, wide hips, and a gap in her front teeth, suggesting a bold and independent nature.
Who is the Wife of Bath?
This animal is the primary tool used by the falconer and the subject of Tobias's frequent lessons.
What is a falcon?
Jane Sharp demands that the apprentice sleep in this damp, unpleasant location, symbolic of her low status.
What is a cat?
The Reeve is a manor official known for his ability to cheat others, which highlights this main social concern of the Middle Ages.
What is greed?
Tobias's father holds this important position, which is why Tobias is sent to the castle in the first place.
What is a knight or Lord?
The apprentice saves the life of this animal early in the story, showing her hidden compassion and skill.
What is Alyce?
At mealtimes, Tobias noticed that people didn’t use this common modern utensil — they mostly ate with their hands and knives instead.
What is a fork?
The first entry in Tobias's diary is written in this year, placing his experiences in the late Middle Ages.
What is 1490? (or during the Medieval times)
This article of clothing is the first item of new clothing Beetle ever receives from the Midwife, which she uses to clean the cottage.
This man was arrested for stealing food because he said he was hungry and desperate, showing how harsh life could be for peasants.
Who is the poacher?