Page 159 - DENG405_BRITISH_POETRY

British Poetry

Notes Valerian : A plant bearing clusters of small pink, red or white flowers.

Misery : Great physical or mental distress.

17.6 Review Questions

1. How does the description of Harry Bailley’s married state fit in with the theme of many of
the tales?
2. What is the Host’s opinion of the clergy?
3. How has Chaucer altered the traditional plot of this tale?
4. How does Cecilia maintain her virginity in marriage?
5. When do angels appear in the Second Nun’s tale?

Answers: Self Assessment
1. It is written as a beast fable.
2. Do not listen to or act upon flattery.
3. Beware the advice of women.
4. He is vain.
5. He warns against trusting in fame and fortune.
6. They are fleeting, they will lost only a short time.
7. She will not sacrifice to Jupiter.
8. Cecilia was protected by either divine intervention or a miracle.

17.7 Further Readings

The Prologue to the Canterbury Tales — Geoffrey Chaucer
The Canterbury Tales — Geoffrey Chaucer
Geoffrey Chaucer — Harold Bloom

Online links http://www.pinkmonkey.com/booknotes/monkeynotes/pmCanterbury02.asp
http://www.bookrags.com/notes/ct/index.html

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