- Published: November 21, 2022
- Updated: November 21, 2022
- University / College: Vanderbilt University
- Level: Intermediate School
- Language: English
- Downloads: 48
The Wife of Bath’s Tale The Wife of Bath’s Tale The Wife of Bath’s Tale is a captivating novel based on the Middle Ages, and it highlights various themes. This narrative bases itself on a major theme of love and romance that highlights itself on many different occasions throughout the novel. The book exposes many instances of knighthood and chivalry seen on many occasions, as one can see narrations of knights rescuing damsels in distress, and another example of this occurs through the Squire in the General Prologue. It is clear how his expressions of affection and courtship come out in the storyline. He represents the traditional courtship love with feelings of chivalry. Another major theme that occurs in the story is the state of the church, especially with issues such as corruption. The state of affairs clearly presents itself through the character of Chaucer, who openly extorts money from people and receives bribes. The Monk and the Prioress reside in the monastery and live a secluded and devotional life as they serve their religious interests.
Another major theme that projects in the storyline is that of the importance of the company. The Knights prefer keeping company with people with similar interests, and who share the same salutations as well. The Knights bid each other farewell by saying ” God save all this faire compaignye,” That salutation is a show of mutual respect between each other. “ God knows that people aren’t like fire, though: They do things differently from one generation to the next” (Chaucer, 2012 p. 1). The medieval community based themselves on different social settings depending on their class and occupation. Another theme that occurs throughout the storyline is that of feminism. The theme portrays itself through the sexual assault of a woman and the questions that arise after this act occurs. There are issues, and debate that question what would happen if women were more superior to men.
Reference
Chaucer, G. (2012). The Wife of Bath. Lanham: Start Publishing LLC.