Characterization
What is characterization?
How an author shows what a character is like.
What is satire?
Using humor or exaggeration to point out human flaws or problems in society
What is a framing narrative?
A story within a story.
What is a theme?
The main message or lesson about life in a story.
Which pilgrim is described as “a most distinguished man” who fought in many battles?
The Knight
How is the Pardoner’s tale ironic?
He preaches against greed but is greedy himself.
What is the frame story in The Canterbury Tales?
Pilgrims telling stories on their journey to Canterbury.
What is the moral of The Pardoner’s Tale?
“Greed is the root of all evil.”
How does Chaucer show the Pardoner’s personality through his own words?
He admits he’s greedy while preaching against greed (shows hypocrisy).
Which pilgrim tells a crude, funny story that mocks others?
The Miller
Why did Chaucer choose a pilgrimage as the frame?
It brought together many people from different classes to share stories.
What does The Wife of Bath’s Tale teach about women’s desires?
That women want control over their own lives and choices.
What is the term for when the author directly tells the reader what a character is like?
Direct characterization
What is tone and voice?
The story’s attitude or feeling
How does the contest idea help the structure?
Each pilgrim tells a tale, creating variety and competition.
What theme does The Knight’s Tale explore?
Honor, chivalry, and love.
What is the term for when the author shows personality through actions, words, or thoughts, rather than telling?
Indirect characterization
What is imagery and detail?
Words that paint a picture
What makes the frame narrative powerful for readers and writers?
It allows many voices, genres, and themes within one story world.
Why do people still read this book of stories that is more than six-hundred years old?
They address universal themes like romantic love, honor, role of religion, sins, and death)