Choose three pilgrims from The Prologue to The Canterbury Tales and show how

Chaucer's description of their physical appearance reflects their personalities

(approx. 400 words).

In "The Prologue to The Canterbury Tales," Geoffrey Chaucer introduces a diverse group of
pilgrims on their way to Canterbury. Chaucer's descriptions of their physical appearances not
only paint vivid pictures of the characters but also offer insights into their personalities. Three
pilgrims who exemplify this connection between appearance and personality are the Knight,
the Pardoner, and the Wife of Bath.

Firstly, Chaucer's depiction of the Knight's physical appearance reflects his noble and
honorable character. The Knight is described as having a "Tunic of simple cloth he
possessed / And now was going on this pilgrimage" (lines 75-78). This description suggests
that the Knight is a seasoned warrior, as his tunic bears battle marks. Additionally, Chaucer
indicates that the Knight places the needs of his steed above his own. These details suggest
the Knight's chivalrous nature and commitment to upholding virtues such as courage,
selflessness, and loyalty.

On the other hand, the Pardoner's physical appearance embodies his deceptive and corrupt
nature. Chaucer describes the Pardoner as having "hair as yellow as wax / But smooth it
hung as does a strike of flax" (lines 677-678). These details associate the Pardoner with the
vermin, implying that he is cunning and manipulative. Furthermore, the Pardoner's eyes are
described as "shiny eyes he had as has a hare" (line 686), which conveys his insatiable
greed. His physical features, reminiscent of repulsive creatures, reflect his dishonesty and
avarice, offering a visual representation of his moral corruption.

Lastly, the Wife of Bath's appearance reveals her vibrant and vivacious personality. Chaucer
describes her as having a wide forehead, "Her stockings were of the finest scarlet red" (line
458), and a hat as broad as a shield. Her bright and colorful attire, combined with her
gap-toothed smile, accentuates her flamboyant and confident demeanor. The Wife of Bath is
bold and assertive, unafraid to express her desires and opinions. Her appearance suggests
that she is self-assured and passionate, and unapologetically embraces her sexuality.

In conclusion, Chaucer's portrayal of the Knight, the Pardoner, and the Wife of Bath in "The
Prologue to The Canterbury Tales" demonstrates how their physical appearances reflect
their personalities. The Knight's worn armor and humble horse mirror his noble and
chivalrous character. Conversely, the Pardoner's rat-like features expose his deceptive and
greedy nature. Finally, the Wife of Bath's vibrant attire and confident smile embody her
assertive and passionate personality. Through these vivid descriptions, Chaucer skillfully
uses physical appearance to provide valuable insights into the pilgrims' individual traits,
creating a multi-dimensional and engaging literary work.