In a post of approximately 250 words, choose one of the following prompts to discuss:
1. The Shipman’s Tale, like the Miller’s Tale, is an example of a fabliau. The humor and narrative action of this tale is precipitated and sustained by transactions that occur between the characters of the Monk, the Merchant, and the Merchant’s Wife. Read lines 43 – 51, 170 – 192, and 269 – 294 closely. Interpret and analyze what happens in these lines and attempt to answer the following: How would you describe the nature of the transactions that take place in this tale? What goods or services are being exchanged? What does each character gain and/or lose? Of the three characters in this tale, who fares the best? Explain your logic.
2. The Parson’s Prologue, the Parson’s tale (as described in the footnote), and Chaucer’s Retraction, taken together, can be read as a significant effort towards rectifying a wrong. Can you speculate as to why Chaucer “renounc[es]” several of his works and calls them “sins” for which he seeks “mercy”? Consider the fact that Chaucer’s retraction does not actually erase, destroy, or take any of his works out of circulation. What function does the retraction serve? What about the Parson’s Prologue and Tale? Feel free to draw from any and all of your readings of the Canterbury Tales, and discuss whether or not you believe Chaucer’s retraction and apology is sincere.
