Chaucer's view of the Church in The Canterbury Tales can be seen as critical and satirical. Throughout the text, Chaucer presents various characters who are members of the Church, such as the Prioress and the Friar, and he portrays them in a negative light, highlighting their hypocrisy and greed. One example of this is seen in the character of the Prioress, who is described as having elegant manners and being concerned with her appearance rather than with spiritual matters. Chaucer writes, "And she had little dogs she would be feeding / With roasted flesh, or milk, or fine white bread" (The Canterbury Tales, The General Prologue, lines 136-137). This portrayal suggests that the Prioress is more focused on indulging herself and her material desires rather than fulfilling her religious duty.
Furthermore, Chaucer criticizes the Church's exploitation of piety for financial gain through the character of the Friar. The Friar is depicted as being more interested in making money by begging from wealthy individuals rather than providing spiritual guidance. Chaucer writes, "For, well he knew, when any likely poor one / Came to the friary, then swiftly he must be / Pursued with gifts and rich rooms in due measure" (The Canterbury Tales, The General Prologue, lines 235-237). This quote highlights the Friar's manipulative nature and his tendency to take advantage of those in vulnerable situations for personal gain. Chaucer's use of satire in portraying these characters reflects his criticism of the Church's corrupt practices at the time.
Overall, Chaucer's view of the Church in The Canterbury Tales is one of skepticism and critique. Through his portrayal of characters like the Prioress and the Friar, he exposes the hypocrisy and greed that he perceives within the Church. Chaucer uses satire and humor to emphasize the flaws and shortcomings of these individuals, conveying his belief that the Church had strayed from its intended purpose and become too focused on earthly pursuits rather than spiritual ones.
Answer the following question in a paragraph of at least 8-10 sentences.
Based on the excerpts provided from The Canterbury Tales, what was Chaucer's view of the Church?
Use at least 2 specific references/quotes from at least 2 different characters described in The Prologue or from the beginning of a character's tale to support your answer.
1 answer