The Canterbury Tales Final
This is a quiz over the Prologue to the Canterbury Tales.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
In “The Prologue,” Chaucer’s main objective is to
- A.
Analyze religious customs
- B.
Reveal the narrator’s thoughts
- C.
Introduce his cast of characters
- D.
Describe a London inn
Correct Answer
C. Introduce his cast of charactersExplanation
In "The Prologue," Chaucer's main objective is to introduce his cast of characters. This can be seen through the detailed descriptions and narratives of each pilgrim as they are introduced. Chaucer provides information about their social status, occupations, and personalities, giving the readers an insight into the diverse group of people embarking on the pilgrimage to Canterbury. The focus of the passage is primarily on introducing these characters rather than analyzing religious customs, revealing the narrator's thoughts, or describing a London inn.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The pilgrims are traveling to Canterbury because
- A.
The shrine of St. Thomas à Becket is there
- B.
They want to escape the plague that is attacking London
- C.
The innkeeper has dared them to make the journey
- D.
It is part of a longer tour of England
Correct Answer
A. The shrine of St. Thomas à Becket is thereExplanation
The pilgrims are traveling to Canterbury because the shrine of St. Thomas à Becket is there. St. Thomas à Becket was the Archbishop of Canterbury who was murdered in Canterbury Cathedral in 1170. His shrine became a popular pilgrimage site during the Middle Ages, attracting pilgrims from all over Europe. The Canterbury Tales, written by Geoffrey Chaucer, is a collection of stories told by a group of pilgrims on their way to visit the shrine of St. Thomas à Becket. The pilgrimage to Canterbury Cathedral was seen as a religious and spiritual journey for the pilgrims.Rate this question:
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- 3.
How many pilgrims depart for Canterbury Cathedral including the Narrator?
- A.
12
- B.
24
- C.
30
- D.
36
Correct Answer
C. 30Explanation
The correct answer is 30 because the question asks for the number of pilgrims departing for Canterbury Cathedral, including the Narrator. Therefore, we need to count the Narrator as one of the pilgrims. Since the question does not specify any other criteria or conditions, we can assume that there are 29 other pilgrims besides the Narrator, resulting in a total of 30 pilgrims departing for Canterbury Cathedral.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The character in The Canterbury Tales who most closely resembles Chaucer himself is the
- A.
Innkeeper
- B.
Narrator
- C.
Knight
- D.
Merchant
Correct Answer
B. NarratorExplanation
The narrator in The Canterbury Tales is the character who most closely resembles Chaucer himself. Throughout the story, the narrator provides detailed descriptions and insights into the other characters, displaying a keen observational ability similar to Chaucer's own. Additionally, the narrator's voice and perspective are often used to convey Chaucer's own opinions and views on various social and moral issues. Therefore, the narrator can be seen as a reflection of Chaucer's own personality and beliefs, making them the character that most closely resembles the author.Rate this question:
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- 5.
In describing the individual pilgrims, Chaucer begins with the
- A.
Knight
- B.
Wife of Bath
- C.
Merchant
- D.
Miller
Correct Answer
A. KnightExplanation
Chaucer begins his description of the individual pilgrims with the Knight. This suggests that the Knight is an important and respected character among the group. Chaucer may have chosen to start with the Knight to establish a tone of nobility and honor, as the Knight is portrayed as a chivalrous and valiant figure. By introducing the Knight first, Chaucer sets the stage for the subsequent descriptions of the other pilgrims, allowing for comparisons and contrasts to be made between their characteristics and the Knight's.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The order in which the pilgrims are introduced is based on their
- A.
Age
- B.
Wealth
- C.
Social Class
- D.
Race
Correct Answer
C. Social ClassExplanation
The order in which the pilgrims are introduced is based on their social class. This means that the pilgrims are introduced according to their position or rank in society. The author likely arranged the introduction of the characters in this way to highlight the diverse social backgrounds and statuses of the pilgrims, which would have been an important aspect of medieval society. Additionally, organizing the introduction based on social class allows the author to provide social commentary and critique through the portrayal of the different characters and their interactions.Rate this question:
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- 7.
The Haberdasher, the Dyer, the Carpenter, the Weaver, and the Carpet-maker are all
- A.
Members of the Clergy
- B.
Too poor to join the pilgrimmage
- C.
Landowners
- D.
Guildsmen
Correct Answer
D. GuildsmenExplanation
The correct answer is Guildsmen. The Haberdasher, the Dyer, the Carpenter, the Weaver, and the Carpet-maker are all guildsmen because they are skilled craftsmen who belong to their respective guilds. Guilds were associations or organizations formed by people in the same trade or craft, and they played an important role in medieval society. Guildsmen were known for their expertise and craftsmanship, and they often held a high social status within their communities.Rate this question:
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- 8.
The Inn in London where the pilgrimage begins is called the ___________ and is roughly __________ miles away from Canterbury Cathedral.
- A.
Tangent Inn, 100
- B.
Tabard Inn; 80
- C.
Traveler's Inn; 90
- D.
Tracker Inn; 85
Correct Answer
B. Tabard Inn; 80Explanation
The correct answer is Tabard Inn; 80. The question asks for the name of the Inn in London where the pilgrimage begins and the distance from that Inn to Canterbury Cathedral. The correct answer states that the Inn is called Tabard Inn and it is roughly 80 miles away from Canterbury Cathedral.Rate this question:
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- 9.
In general, the attitude of the characters toward the pilgrimage is one of
- A.
Dread
- B.
Boredom
- C.
Resentment
- D.
Enthusiasm
Correct Answer
D. EnthusiasmExplanation
The correct answer is enthusiasm. This can be inferred from the fact that the word "dread" implies fear or reluctance, "boredom" suggests a lack of interest or excitement, and "resentment" indicates a feeling of anger or annoyance. Therefore, the opposite of these negative emotions would be enthusiasm, which suggests a positive and eager attitude towards the pilgrimage.Rate this question:
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- 10.
What does the host suggest as a prize for the best story?
- A.
A new horse for the ride home
- B.
A free night's lodging at the inn
- C.
A new coat made of worsted wool
- D.
A supper paid for by all the pilgrims
Correct Answer
D. A supper paid for by all the pilgrimsExplanation
The host suggests that the best story will be rewarded with a supper paid for by all the pilgrims.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Chaucer introduces us to 30 pilgrims. He intended to write 4 tales per pilgrim (120 total) before he died. How many tales was he able to complete before he passed away?
- A.
20
- B.
26
- C.
30
- D.
36
Correct Answer
B. 26Explanation
Chaucer intended to write 4 tales per pilgrim, and there were 30 pilgrims introduced. Therefore, the total number of tales he intended to write was 4 multiplied by 30, which equals 120 tales. However, he was only able to complete 26 tales before he passed away.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Although he was not royalty, Chaucer was one of a very select number of commoners to be buried in this prestigious location.
- A.
Abbey Road
- B.
Churchill Grounds
- C.
Thatcher Commons
- D.
Westminster Abbey
Correct Answer
D. Westminster AbbeyExplanation
Chaucer's burial in Westminster Abbey is significant because he was not a member of the royalty. This suggests that Chaucer was highly respected and esteemed in his time, as commoners were rarely given the privilege of being buried in such a prestigious location. Westminster Abbey is known for being the final resting place of many notable figures in British history, making it a fitting resting place for Chaucer as well.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The pilgrims agree to tell tales during the journey to
- A.
Win a free meal and pass the time
- B.
Reduce fighting and bickering
- C.
Reduce fighting and bickering
- D.
Teach the innkeeper a lesson about pride
Correct Answer
A. Win a free meal and pass the timeExplanation
The pilgrims agree to tell tales during the journey to win a free meal and pass the time. This suggests that they are looking for entertainment and a way to make the journey more enjoyable. By telling stories, they can keep themselves occupied and also potentially receive a reward in the form of a free meal. This motivation helps to create a sense of camaraderie among the pilgrims and reduces the chances of fighting and bickering during the journey. Additionally, the tales serve as a way to teach moral lessons and entertain the innkeeper, but the primary reason for the agreement is to win a free meal and pass the time.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which of the following quotations from “The Prologue” is the best example of imagery?
- A.
Referring to the April rains as liquor
- B.
“In fifteen mortal battles he had been.”
- C.
“Just home from service, he had joined our ranks.”
- D.
“He’d seen some service with the cavalry.”
Correct Answer
A. Referring to the April rains as liquorExplanation
The quotation "Referring to the April rains as liquor" is the best example of imagery because it uses a sensory description to create a vivid mental image. By comparing the April rains to liquor, the author appeals to the reader's sense of taste and creates a visual image of the rain resembling a flowing liquid. This use of imagery helps to enhance the reader's understanding and experience of the text.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Near the beginning of "The Prologue," the narrator reveals that one of the main motivations for making the pilgrimage is
- A.
Guilt
- B.
Loneliness
- C.
Religious observance
- D.
Desire for adventure
Correct Answer
C. Religious observanceExplanation
The correct answer is religious observance. In the beginning of "The Prologue," the narrator mentions that the main motivation for making the pilgrimage is to fulfill their religious duty. This suggests that the individuals embarking on the pilgrimage are driven by their faith and the desire to engage in religious observance.Rate this question:
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- 16.
In The Pardoner’s Tale,the three “brothers” believe that the old man is
- A.
Death's spy
- B.
Death's enemy
- C.
Death in disguise
- D.
The ghost of a dead man
Correct Answer
A. Death's spyExplanation
In The Pardoner's Tale, the three "brothers" believe that the old man is Death's spy. This is because they encounter the old man while searching for Death, and he tells them that he has been looking for Death for a long time but has not been able to find him. The brothers interpret this as the old man being Death's spy, as he seems to know where Death is and is intentionally avoiding him.Rate this question:
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- 17.
In The Pardoner's Tale, which of the three “brothers” commit(s) murder?
- A.
All of them
- B.
None of them
- C.
Only the two who stay behind
- D.
Only the one who goes into town
Correct Answer
A. All of themExplanation
In The Pardoner's Tale, all three "brothers" commit murder. They set out on a quest to find and kill Death, but they end up finding a pile of gold instead. Greed takes over and they plot to keep the treasure for themselves. Each brother takes turns going into town to fetch food and wine, and while they are away, the remaining brothers conspire to kill him and split the treasure. In the end, all three brothers are guilty of murder, as they all conspired to kill each other for personal gain.Rate this question:
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- 18.
In The Pardoner's Tale, Death defeats the three “brothers” by appealing to their
- A.
Pride
- B.
Greed
- C.
Vanity
- D.
Worst fears
Correct Answer
B. GreedExplanation
In The Pardoner's Tale, Death defeats the three "brothers" by appealing to their greed. The three brothers come across a pile of gold coins and make a pact to share it equally. However, their greed takes over, and they decide to stay with the treasure until nightfall. While they are waiting, one of the brothers goes into town to buy food and drinks but is secretly planning to poison his brothers. However, the other two brothers plot to kill him and keep the treasure for themselves. In the end, all three brothers die due to their greed, as they are poisoned by the drinks they intended to kill each other with.Rate this question:
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- 19.
In the Pardoner's Tale, who or what does the old man claim to be searching for?
- A.
His mother
- B.
God
- C.
Gold
- D.
Food
Correct Answer
A. His motherExplanation
In the Pardoner's Tale, the old man claims to be searching for his mother. This is evident when the Pardoner describes how the old man tells him that he has been searching for Death, but instead has found his mother. This adds a sense of irony to the story, as Death is often portrayed as an enemy or something to be feared, yet the old man seems to be longing for it in order to be reunited with his mother.Rate this question:
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- 20.
When the 'three brothers" discover the gold coins, they
- A.
Abandon their search for Death.
- B.
Increase their efforts to find Death.
- C.
Decide to wait for Death to find them.
- D.
Decide to postpone their search for Death until later.
Correct Answer
A. Abandon their search for Death.Explanation
The correct answer is "abandon their search for Death." This can be inferred from the information given that the three brothers discover gold coins. The discovery of wealth often leads individuals to prioritize material possessions and abandon their previous pursuits. Therefore, it can be concluded that the brothers no longer feel the need to search for Death and instead focus on their newfound wealth.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The Wife of Bath is a
- A.
Pious churchgoer and religious teacher
- B.
Well-traveled vendor of fine silk clothing
- C.
Veteran of several pilgrimages and 5 marriages
- D.
Widow of a prosperous doctor in Bath
Correct Answer
C. Veteran of several pilgrimages and 5 marriagesExplanation
The Wife of Bath is described as a veteran of several pilgrimages and 5 marriages. This suggests that she has a lot of experience in both religious journeys and marital relationships. Her multiple marriages indicate that she is not a pious churchgoer or a widow, but rather someone who has actively sought out companionship and adventure. This characterization adds depth to her character and highlights her independent and bold nature.Rate this question:
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- 22.
What is one of the Wife of Bath’s opinions about women?
- A.
Women cannot keep a secret.
- B.
Women should be sovereign over their husbands and lovers.
- C.
Old women are ugly and rude.
- D.
Women desire wealth and security.
Correct Answer
B. Women should be sovereign over their husbands and lovers.Explanation
The Wife of Bath, a character in Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales," is known for her strong opinions on marriage and relationships. One of her opinions is that women should have control and power over their husbands and lovers. She believes that women should be the ones making decisions and having authority in relationships, rather than being submissive to men. This opinion reflects the Wife of Bath's desire for independence and autonomy, which she sees as essential for women to have a fulfilling and satisfying life.Rate this question:
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- 23.
On their wedding night, the knight refuses to share his bed with the old woman. Why?
- A.
He doesn't appreciate being tricked.
- B.
He disputes the Queen's authority.
- C.
He's waiting for King Arthur to save him.
- D.
The old woman is too old an unappealing to him.
Correct Answer
D. The old woman is too old an unappealing to him.Explanation
The knight refuses to share his bed with the old woman because he finds her unattractive due to her age.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The old woman offers the knight a choice between
- A.
Poverty and wealth.
- B.
Learning and ignorance
- C.
Beauty and faithfulness
- D.
Good manners and foul deeds
Correct Answer
C. Beauty and faithfulnessExplanation
The old woman offers the knight a choice between beauty and faithfulness. This suggests that she values inner qualities over outward appearances. By offering him this choice, she is testing his character and whether he values loyalty and commitment in a relationship. The answer implies that the old woman believes that true beauty lies in being faithful and devoted, rather than in physical attractiveness alone.Rate this question:
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- 25.
How do we know that the knight remembers the advice that saved his life, heeds it?
- A.
He allows his bride to have sovereignty over him.
- B.
He chooses beauty.
- C.
He chooses faithfulness.
- D.
He asks for a divorce
Correct Answer
A. He allows his bride to have sovereignty over him.Explanation
The knight allowing his bride to have sovereignty over him indicates that he remembers and heeds the advice that saved his life. By giving his bride control and power, he shows that he has learned from his past mistakes and values her opinions and decisions. This act of submission demonstrates his understanding of the importance of mutual respect and equality in a relationship, which aligns with the advice that saved his life.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Who is involved in a love triangle in The Knight’s Tale?
- A.
Arcite, Venus & Mars
- B.
Palomon, Venus and Arcite
- C.
Palomon, Arcite and Mars
- D.
Palomon, Arcite and Emily
Correct Answer
D. Palomon, Arcite and EmilyExplanation
In The Knight's Tale, the love triangle involves Palomon, Arcite, and Emily. Palomon and Arcite are both knights who fall in love with Emily, creating a rivalry between them. Emily becomes the object of their affection and the cause of their conflict throughout the story.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Which Knight gets set free by The Duke of Athens?
- A.
Palomon
- B.
Arcite
- C.
Saturn
- D.
Mars
Correct Answer
B. ArciteExplanation
The Duke of Athens sets Arcite free.Rate this question:
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- 28.
How and why did Arcite return to Athens?
- A.
He snuck onto a passing ship because he was being hunted in his homeland.
- B.
He wanted to free Palomon so he enlisted in Theseus’ army.
- C.
He wanted to impress the queen so he got a job as her page.
- D.
He wanted to be close to Emily so he took a job as one of her servants.
Correct Answer
D. He wanted to be close to Emily so he took a job as one of her servants.Explanation
Arcite returned to Athens because he wanted to be close to Emily, so he took a job as one of her servants.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Which God/Goddess does Palomon pray to the night before his final battle with Arcite?
- A.
Aphrodite
- B.
Zeus
- C.
Mars
- D.
Venus
Correct Answer
D. VenusExplanation
Palomon prays to Venus the night before his final battle with Arcite. Venus is the Roman goddess of love, beauty, and desire. It is likely that Palomon seeks her assistance and guidance in his battle, hoping for her favor and protection. Venus is often associated with victory and success, making her a suitable deity to pray to before a significant battle.Rate this question:
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- 30.
When the Gods argue that they cannot both answer the prayers of their knights, who is the grandfather that gets involved and assure them that everything will work out?
- A.
Mars
- B.
Venus
- C.
Saturn
- D.
Jupiter
Correct Answer
C. SaturnExplanation
Saturn is the correct answer because in Roman mythology, Saturn is the god of agriculture and wealth. He is also known as the father of Jupiter, who is the king of gods. As the grandfather of the arguing gods, Saturn has the authority and wisdom to intervene and assure them that everything will work out.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Which of the following characteristics does Arcite display on his death bed and how?
- A.
Chivalry. He tells Emily she should choose Palomon because he is a good man.
- B.
Courtly Love. He tells Emily she should choose Arcite because he is a good man.
- C.
Knightly Love. If Arcite can’t have Emily, another knight should.
- D.
Knighthood. Only the best knight is worthy of Emily’s hand.
Correct Answer
A. Chivalry. He tells Emily she should choose Palomon because he is a good man.Explanation
Arcite displays the characteristic of chivalry on his death bed by advising Emily to choose Palomon because he recognizes Palomon as a good man. Chivalry is a code of conduct that emphasizes honor, bravery, and respect towards women. By suggesting that Emily should choose Palomon based on his virtue, Arcite demonstrates his adherence to the principles of chivalry, prioritizing the well-being and happiness of Emily over his own desires.Rate this question:
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