Prologue HW
Satire, is primarily a literary genre or form, although in practice it can also be found in the graphic and performing arts. In satire, vices, follies, abuses, and shortcomings are held up to ridicule, ideally with the intent of shaming individuals, and society itself, into improvement.[1] Although satire is usually meant to be funny, its greater purpose is often constructive social criticism, using wit as a weapon.
A. The above definition of "satire" is from Wikipedia. Think of two examples of satire in a movie or on television.
B. Read the following sections of the Prologue in your textbook:
The Knight, 40-80
The Squire, 81-102
The Nun, 122-166
The Friar, 212-279
The Franklin, 341-370
The Wife of Bath, 455-486
The Parson, 487-538
The Plowman, 539-555
The Pardoner, 689-734
C. For each of the characters, make notes about his or her attire, physiognomy (if applicable) and character.
Does Chaucer satirize the character? Present textual proof for your answer.
The example below (The Pardoner) provides a model: