The Canterbury Tales Quiz: Test Your Knowledge Of Chaucer's Masterpiece

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  • 1/50 Questions

    Which pilgrim tells a tale about a knight who must discover what women desire most?

    • The Wife of Bath 
    • The Knight 
    • The Franklin 
    • The Pardoner
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About This Quiz

How well do you know Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales? Find out with this engaging quiz. Designed to assess your understanding, the Canterbury Tales Quiz focuses on themes, characters, and the socio-cultural context of this medieval classic. From the diverse tales narrated by pilgrims to the rich portrayal of 14th-century life, this quiz offers a comprehensive evaluation of your knowledge. See moreAdditionally, explore a variety of thought-provoking Canterbury Tales MCQ questions tailored to challenge your grasp of the text.

If you are analyzing the Knight’s chivalry or the satire of the Wife of Bath, this quiz ensures a deeper appreciation of Chaucer's masterpiece. Each question encourages critical thinking, making it perfect for students and literature enthusiasts alike. Strengthen your literary skills by identifying key details and interpreting nuanced meanings from the tales.

The Canterbury Tales Quiz: Test Your Knowledge Of Chaucers Masterpiece - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    What is the name of the inn where the pilgrims meet before starting their journey?

    • The Tabard Inn 

    • The Canterbury Inn 

    • The Southwark Inn 

    • The Pilgrim's Rest

    Correct Answer
    A. The Tabard Inn 
    Explanation
    The Tabard Inn, located in Southwark (a district of London), is the gathering point for the pilgrims in The Canterbury Tales. It is here that the Host proposes the storytelling contest and sets the framework for the narrative structure of the work. The Tabard Inn serves as a microcosm of medieval society, bringing together individuals from various social classes and walks of life.

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  • 3. 

    Which pilgrim is described as having a "gap-toothed" appearance, which was considered a sign of sensuality in Chaucer's time?

    • The Prioress 

    • The Wife of Bath 

    • The Nun's Priest 

    • The Second Nun

    Correct Answer
    A. The Wife of Bath 
    Explanation
    The Wife of Bath is described as having a gap between her front teeth, a feature that was considered attractive and suggestive of sensuality in medieval England. This detail, along with her vibrant clothing and assertive personality, contributes to her characterization as a woman who embraces her sexuality and challenges societal norms.

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  • 4. 

    Which tale is a satire of courtly love and chivalry, featuring a knight who falls in love with a fairy?

    • The Knight's Tale 

    • The Wife of Bath's Tale 

    • The Franklin's Tale 

    • The Squire's Tale

    Correct Answer
    A. The Squire's Tale
    Explanation
    The Squire's Tale, although unfinished, is a classic example of a romance narrative with elements of magic and fantasy. It satirizes the conventions of courtly love and chivalry through its portrayal of a knight's infatuation with a fairy princess and the fantastical elements of the story. This tale contrasts with the more grounded and realistic narratives of the Knight and the Franklin.

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  • 5. 

    Which pilgrim is described as being "choleric" and having a fiery red face, suggesting a quick temper and a fondness for alcohol?

    • The Miller 

    • The Reeve 

    • The Summoner 

    • The Friar

    Correct Answer
    A. The Miller 
    Explanation
    The Miller is portrayed as a boisterous and somewhat crude character. His "choleric" nature, indicated by his red face, suggests a tendency towards anger and aggression. His fondness for alcohol is also hinted at in the General Prologue, contributing to his characterization as a figure who enjoys indulging in earthly pleasures.

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  • 6. 

    Of which movement in English literature is Chaucer often considered the first representative?

    • Humanism

    • Aestheticism

    • Expressionism

    • Transcendentalism

    Correct Answer
    A. Humanism
    Explanation
    Chaucer is often considered the first representative of the Humanism movement in English literature because his works, such as "The Canterbury Tales," focused on the individual and human experiences, as well as the importance of reason and education. Humanism emphasized the value of human beings and their ability to reason, rather than relying solely on religious or supernatural explanations. Chaucer's works reflected this humanistic perspective and marked a shift towards a more secular and individualistic approach in literature.

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  • 7. 

    Which of the following Italian authors did not influence Chaucer?

    • Dante Alighieri

    • Francesco Petrarca

    • Pietro Bembo

    • Giovanni Boccaccio

    Correct Answer
    A. Pietro Bembo
    Explanation
    Pietro Bembo did not influence Chaucer. While Dante Alighieri, Francesco Petrarca, and Giovanni Boccaccio were all influential Italian authors during the same time period as Chaucer, there is no evidence to suggest that Chaucer was influenced by Bembo's work. Bembo was a later Renaissance writer, and his influence did not extend to Chaucer's time.

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  • 8. 

    Which tale involves a moral lesson about the dangers of greed and the corrupting influence of wealth?

    • The Pardoner's Tale 

    • The Nun's Priest's Tale 

    • The Manciple's Tale 

    • The Merchant's Tale

    Correct Answer
    A. The Pardoner's Tale 
    Explanation
    The Pardoner's Tale is a cautionary story about three rioters who, driven by greed, seek out Death but end up finding their own demise. This tale serves as a moral allegory, warning against the dangers of avarice and the pursuit of wealth at the expense of morality. The Pardoner himself is a corrupt figure who uses this tale to manipulate people into buying his indulgences, adding another layer of irony to the story.

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  • 9. 

    During which period were the Canterbury Tales written?

    • 1240-1244

    • 1310-1315

    • 1387-1400

    • 1395-1405

    Correct Answer
    A. 1387-1400
    Explanation
    The Canterbury Tales were written between 1387 and 1400. This period aligns with the lifetime of the author, Geoffrey Chaucer, who is known for his work on this collection of stories. Chaucer began writing the tales around 1387 and continued working on them until his death in 1400. The Canterbury Tales is considered a significant literary work of the Middle Ages and provides insight into the social and cultural aspects of that time period.

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  • 10. 

    In which year did William Caxton publish the Canterbury Tales for the first time?

    • 1450

    • 1460

    • 1476

    • 1480

    Correct Answer
    A. 1476
    Explanation
    William Caxton, a printer and merchant, published the first edition of Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales in 1476. Caxton was an early pioneer of printing in England, and his printing press played a significant role in the dissemination of literary works during the late 15th century. The Canterbury Tales, a collection of stories written by Chaucer in Middle English, became one of the first major literary works printed in the English language. Caxton's efforts contributed to the preservation and wider availability of Chaucer's masterpiece, making it more accessible to a broader audience. The exact date of publication is often cited as 1478, making it one of the earliest books printed in England.

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  • 11. 

     In the Canterbury Tales, what is the literary technique called that connects one story to a series of other stories?

    • Frame narrative

    • Web narrative

    • Box narrative

    • Casing narrative

    Correct Answer
    A. Frame narrative
    Explanation
    In the Canterbury Tales, the literary technique used to connect one story to a series of other stories is called a "frame narrative." This technique involves a main story or frame that encloses and links several smaller stories. In Chaucer's work, the frame is the pilgrimage to Canterbury, during which various characters tell their own tales. This structure allows for a diversity of voices and themes, enriching the text with multiple perspectives and insights into medieval life.

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  • 12. 

    What is the composition style of the Prologue and the majority of the tales in the Canterbury Tales?

    • Decasyllabic verses in rhyming couplets

    • Unrhymed dodecasyllabic verses

    • Octosyllabic verses in rhyming couplets

    • Unrhymed decasyllabic verses

    Correct Answer
    A. Decasyllabic verses in rhyming couplets
    Explanation
    The Prologue and the majority of the tales in Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales are composed of decasyllabic verses in rhyming couplets. This means each line consists of ten syllables, and the verses are paired with end rhymes, creating a rhythmic and musical quality. This style was a popular poetic form during the Middle Ages in England and is particularly effective for the varied storytelling found in the Canterbury Tales, providing both a sense of cohesion and an engaging auditory experience.

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  • 13. 

    Which tale is a beast fable that satirizes the clergy and explores themes of pride and vanity?

    • The Nun's Priest's Tale 

    • The Wife of Bath's Tale 

    • The Friar's Tale 

    • The Summoner's Tale

    Correct Answer
    A. The Nun's Priest's Tale 
    Explanation
    The Nun's Priest's Tale tells the story of Chanticleer, a proud rooster who is tricked by a fox. This tale is a classic example of a beast fable, where animals are used to represent human characteristics and convey moral lessons. In this case, the tale satirizes the clergy and explores themes of pride, vanity, and the importance of discernment.

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  • 14. 

    How many tales did Chaucer complete in The Canterbury Tales?

    • 12

    • 20

    • 24

    • 30

    Correct Answer
    A. 24
    Explanation
    Geoffrey Chaucer completed 24 tales in The Canterbury Tales. Each tale is told by one of the pilgrims on their journey to Canterbury. The tales cover a variety of genres, themes, and styles, showcasing Chaucer's skill in storytelling and providing a diverse picture of medieval society. It's important to note that Chaucer did not finish all the planned tales. In his original plan, each of the 30 pilgrims was supposed to tell two stories on the way to Canterbury and two more on the way back, making a total of 120 tales. However, he was unable to complete this ambitious goal before his death. The unfinished nature of The Canterbury Tales leaves us with a collection that offers a glimpse into Chaucer's storytelling genius and medieval English society.

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  • 15. 

    Which pilgrim is described as being "wanton" and "merry," suggesting a carefree and perhaps promiscuous nature?

    • The Wife of Bath 

    • The Prioress 

    • The Second Nun 

    • The Merchant's Wife

    Correct Answer
    A. The Wife of Bath 
    Explanation
    The Wife of Bath is characterized as a bold and independent woman who challenges societal expectations of women in the Middle Ages. The terms "wanton" and "merry" used to describe her suggest a carefree and perhaps even promiscuous nature. She is unapologetic about her sexuality and her multiple marriages, making her a controversial and fascinating character in Chaucer's work.

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  • 16. 

    In which season does the pilgrimage in The Canterbury Tales take place?

    • Spring

    • Summer

    • Autumn

    • Winter

    Correct Answer
    A. Spring
    Explanation
    The pilgrimage in Geoffrey Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales takes place in spring. The General Prologue of the work opens with the famous lines that celebrate the rejuvenation of April, with its showers piercing the drought of March and bringing life to the world, stirring people to go on pilgrimages. This setting of spring symbolizes a time of renewal and reflects the themes of new beginnings and spiritual rebirth that are common in the tales.

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  • 17. 

    The pilgrims travel to the shrine of St. Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral. Where do they depart from?

    • Southwark

    • Southpark

    • Southbank

    • Southwalk

    Correct Answer
    A. Southwark
    Explanation
    The pilgrims depart from Southwark to travel to the shrine of St. Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral. Southwark is a historic area in London, located on the south bank of the River Thames. It was a popular starting point for pilgrims during the medieval period, as it was the southern entrance to London and provided easy access to the Canterbury route.

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  • 18. 

    What is the name of the host?

    • Barry Hailey

    • Gary Mailey

    • Harry Bailey

    • Larry Sailey

    Correct Answer
    A. Harry Bailey
    Explanation
    In Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales," the host's name is Harry Bailey. He is a character who appears in the "General Prologue" and serves as the master of ceremonies for the storytelling competition. Harry Bailey is the owner of the Tabard Inn in Southwark, where the pilgrims gather before setting out on their pilgrimage to Canterbury.

     

    In the narrative, Harry Bailey suggests the idea of each pilgrim telling two stories on the way to Canterbury and two stories on the way back. He also proposes that the best storyteller will receive a free meal upon their return. Throughout the journey, he plays a lively and active role, interacting with the pilgrims and overseeing the storytelling contest, adding a dynamic element to the overall narrative structure.

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  • 19. 

    Which tale involves a debate about the nature of true nobility and the importance of virtue?

    • The Knight's Tale 

    • The Franklin's Tale 

    • The Wife of Bath's Tale 

    • The Man of Law's Tale

    Correct Answer
    A. The Franklin's Tale 
    Explanation
    The Franklin's Tale explores themes of love, honor, and the true meaning of nobility. It involves a complex moral dilemma where characters must choose between fulfilling their promises and upholding their values. This tale delves into questions of social class, gender roles, and the nature of true virtue, making it one of the most philosophically rich stories in The Canterbury Tales.

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  • 20. 

    What is the prize for winning the storytelling contest?

    • A date with the Wife of Bath

    • A book of poetry

    • A medal and certificate

    • A free meal at the Tabard Inn

    Correct Answer
    A. A free meal at the Tabard Inn
    Explanation
    The prize for winning the storytelling contest in "The Canterbury Tales" is a free meal at the Tabard Inn. The host, Harry Bailey, suggests that the pilgrim who tells the best story will be rewarded with a feast at the inn upon their return from Canterbury.

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  • 21. 

    Which pilgrim is described as having a "forked beard" and a "motley" coat, suggesting a deceptive and perhaps untrustworthy nature?

    • The Merchant 

    • The Friar 

    • The Pardoner 

    • The Manciple

    Correct Answer
    A. The Pardoner 
    Explanation
    The Pardoner is depicted as a morally ambiguous character with questionable practices. His forked beard and motley coat are symbolic of his duplicitous nature. He openly admits to preaching false sermons and selling fake relics to exploit people's faith. This makes him a fascinating and complex character who embodies the hypocrisy and corruption that Chaucer critiques in The Canterbury Tales.

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  • 22. 

    Which tale features a story within a story, involving a group of animals who hold a parliament to discuss the threat of a predator?

    • The Nun's Priest's Tale 

    • The Pardoner's Tale 

    • The Wife of Bath's Tale 

    • The Canon's Yeoman's Tale

    Correct Answer
    A. The Nun's Priest's Tale 
    Explanation
    The Nun's Priest's Tale, a beast fable, features a story within a story. The main narrative involves Chanticleer the rooster and the cunning fox, but within this tale, Chanticleer recounts a dream in which he attends a parliament of animals discussing the threat of a fox. This embedded narrative adds depth and complexity to the tale, allowing Chaucer to explore themes of predestination, free will, and the power of dreams.

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  • 23. 

    Which pilgrim is described as being "sanguine," suggesting a cheerful and optimistic disposition?

    • The Franklin 

    • The Knight 

    • The Reeve 

    • The Pardoner

    Correct Answer
    A. The Franklin 
    Explanation
    The Franklin is portrayed as a wealthy landowner who enjoys the pleasures of life. His "sanguine" nature, associated with the humor of blood, suggests a cheerful, optimistic, and sociable personality. He is described as having a "white beard" and a fondness for fine food and drink, further emphasizing his jovial and hospitable nature.

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  • 24. 

    Which character represents the highest social class of the group?

    • Squire

    • Knight

    • Monk

    • Miller

    Correct Answer
    A. Knight
    Explanation
    The Knight represents the highest social class of the group. In medieval society, knights were considered to be part of the nobility and held a high position in the social hierarchy. They were typically wealthy landowners and were often associated with chivalry and honor. The other characters mentioned, such as the Squire, Monk, and Miller, may hold certain levels of status but do not possess the same level of prestige and social standing as the Knight.

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  • 25. 

    Which character seems to love animals more than humans?

    • Squire

    • Friar

    • Wife of Bath

    • Prioress

    Correct Answer
    A. Prioress
    Explanation
    The Prioress seems to love animals more than humans. This can be inferred from the fact that she has a small dog with her, which she treats with great care and feeds the finest food. Additionally, she weeps when she sees a mouse caught in a trap, showing her compassion towards animals.

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  • 26. 

    Which tale explores the theme of religious hypocrisy and the corrupt practices of the clergy?

    • The Friar's Tale 

    • The Summoner's Tale 

    • The Pardoner's Tale 

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    Chaucer uses satire to critique various aspects of medieval society, including the Church. The Friar's Tale, the Summoner's Tale, and the Pardoner's Tale all expose the hypocrisy and corruption within the clergy. The Friar exploits people's fears of hell, the Summoner extorts money through false accusations, and the Pardoner sells fake relics. These tales serve as social commentary, highlighting the moral failings of those in religious authority.

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  • 27. 

    The Wife of Bath is an expert at what?

    • Love remedies

    • Cookery

    • Dance

    • Chess

    Correct Answer
    A. Love remedies
    Explanation
    The Wife of Bath is an expert at love remedies. This means she has extensive knowledge and experience in solving problems and conflicts that arise in romantic relationships. She is skilled at providing advice and solutions to couples who are facing difficulties in their love lives.

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  • 28. 

    How many times has the Wife of Bath been married?

    • 2

    • 3

    • 4

    • 5

    Correct Answer
    A. 5
    Explanation
    The correct answer is 5. The Wife of Bath, a character in Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales," has been married five times. She proudly boasts about her extensive experience in matrimony, claiming to have a wealth of knowledge on the subject of marriage. Her numerous marriages and her views on love and relationships make her one of the most memorable and controversial characters in the collection.

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  • 29. 

    What color are the Wife of Bath’s stockings?

    • Black

    • White

    • Red

    • Blue

    Correct Answer
    A. Red
    Explanation
    The description of the Wife of Bath's stockings is found in the "General Prologue" of "The Canterbury Tales," written by Geoffrey Chaucer. The relevant lines (lines 468–470) state:

     

    "Hir hosen weren of fyn scarlet reed,

    Ful streite yteyd, and shoos ful moiste and newe."

     

    Translated, this means her stockings were of a fine scarlet red, tightly fastened, and her shoes were very moist and new. The mention of the red stockings is a part of the detailed and vivid characterization that Chaucer employs to bring each pilgrim to life in the reader's imagination. The Wife of Bath, known for her extravagant and bold attire, wears these striking red stockings as part of her distinctive appearance.

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  • 30. 

    Which pilgrim is described as being "modest" and "meek," suggesting a humble and unassuming nature?

    • The Knight 

    • The Wife of Bath 

    • The Clerk 

    • The Monk

    Correct Answer
    A. The Clerk 
    Explanation
    The Clerk is portrayed as a poor student who prioritizes learning and knowledge over material wealth. He is described as "modest" and "meek," highlighting his humble and unassuming nature. He is dedicated to his studies and is respected for his wisdom and eloquence, contrasting with the more worldly and materialistic pilgrims.

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  • 31. 

    Which phrase is written on the Prioress’ brooch?

    • Carpe diem

    • Amor vincit omnia

    • Caritas vincit omnia

    • Veni, vidi, vici

    Correct Answer
    A. Amor vincit omnia
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "Amor vincit omnia." This Latin phrase translates to "Love conquers all." It suggests that love is a powerful force that can overcome any obstacle or challenge. The phrase is often associated with the Prioress, a character in Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, who is depicted as being compassionate and loving towards all beings. The brooch with this phrase serves as a symbol of the Prioress's values and beliefs.

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  • 32. 

    Which tale involves a test of a husband's patience and loyalty, as his wife repeatedly deceives him?

    • The Merchant's Tale 

    • The Wife of Bath's Tale 

    • The Shipman's Tale 

    • The Miller's Tale

    Correct Answer
    A. The Merchant's Tale 
    Explanation
    The Merchant's Tale is a cynical and humorous story about January, an elderly knight who marries a young woman named May. May deceives January by having an affair with a younger man, Damyan. This tale explores themes of love, marriage, infidelity, and the challenges of aging, offering a satirical commentary on the institution of marriage and the complexities of human relationships.

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  • 33. 

    Which character is the Monk coupled with?

    • The Prioress

    • The Poor Parson

    • The Pardoner

    • The Friar

    Correct Answer
    A. The Friar
    Explanation
    The correct answer is The Friar. In Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales," the Monk is paired with the Friar. This pairing is significant as it highlights the corruption and immorality of the church during the medieval period. Both the Monk and the Friar are depicted as indulging in worldly pleasures and neglecting their religious duties. This pairing serves as a critique of the clergy and their lack of devotion to their spiritual responsibilities.

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  • 34. 

    Which of the following physical features characterizes the Friar?

    • Red beard

    • Gap between his front teeth

    • Wart on his nose

    • White neck

    Correct Answer
    A. White neck
    Explanation
    The physical feature that characterizes the Friar in "The Canterbury Tales" is a "white neck." Chaucer describes the Friar with the line:

     

    "He knew the taverns wel in every toun,

    And everich hostiler and tappestere

    Bet than a lazar or a beggestere;

    For unto swich a worthy man as he

    Acorded nat, as by his facultee,

    To have with sik lazars aqueyntaunce.

    It is nat honest, it may nat avaunce,

    Fer wel bihoveth it his ordre kepe;

    He was a noble post, for an to slepe.

    Certes he was a greet affeccioun,

    And in-to swich esy point coude he broche it,

    As the Frere in "The Canterbury Tales," the Friar is portrayed as someone who is familiar with taverns and innkeepers, and he is skilled at making friends. The mention of his "white neck" suggests a certain elegance or cleanliness in his appearance.

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  • 35. 

    Which pilgrim is described as having a "love-knot" in their hair, suggesting a romantic or sentimental nature?

    • The Prioress 

    • The Wife of Bath 

    • The Squire 

    • The Monk

    Correct Answer
    A. The Prioress 
    Explanation
    The Prioress, a nun, is described as having a "love-knot" in her hair, which is a subtle detail that hints at a romantic or sentimental side to her character. This contrasts with the traditional image of a nun as being solely devoted to religious life. This detail adds complexity to her characterization and suggests that she may have desires and emotions that extend beyond her religious vows.
     

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  • 36. 

    Which character is the Poor Parson coupled with?

    • Friar

    • Summoner

    • Plowman

    • Miller

    Correct Answer
    A. Plowman
    Explanation
    The Poor Parson is coupled with the Plowman. In Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales," the Poor Parson and the Plowman are both portrayed as virtuous and humble characters. The Poor Parson is a dedicated and devout clergyman, while the Plowman is a hardworking and honest laborer. They are both depicted as individuals who lead simple lives and prioritize their moral values. The coupling of the Poor Parson and the Plowman highlights their shared qualities of righteousness and integrity.

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  • 37. 

    The Summoner represents which of the following?

    • God the judge

    • God the provider

    • God the creator

    • God the merciful

    Correct Answer
    A. God the judge
    Explanation
    The Summoner represents God the judge because a summoner is someone who calls people to appear before a court or judge. In medieval times, summoners were responsible for summoning individuals to appear before church courts to answer for their sins. Therefore, the role of a summoner aligns with the idea of God as the ultimate judge who passes judgment on individuals based on their actions.

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  • 38. 

    The Pardoner sells which animal’s bones as saint’s bones?

    • Dog's

    • Pig's

    • Goat's

    • Sheep's

    Correct Answer
    A. Pig's
    Explanation
    The correct answer is Pig's. The Pardoner sells pig's bones as saint's bones. This is significant because in the Middle Ages, relics were highly valued and believed to have miraculous powers. The Pardoner takes advantage of people's faith and superstition by selling them fake relics, such as pig's bones, claiming they are holy. This highlights the Pardoner's deceitful and manipulative nature, as well as the widespread corruption within the Church during that time.

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  • 39. 

    Which tale involves a moral lesson about the importance of keeping promises and honoring oaths?

    • The Franklin's Tale 

    • The Knight's Tale 

    • The Wife of Bath's Tale 

    • The Pardoner’s Tale

    Correct Answer
    A. The Franklin's Tale 
    Explanation
    The Franklin's Tale explores the theme of keeping promises through the story of Arveragus, Dorigen, and Aurelius. Arveragus, a knight, makes a rash promise to his wife, Dorigen, that she can have an affair if she can make the rocks disappear from the coast. When Aurelius, a squire in love with Dorigen, magically fulfills this condition, Arveragus insists that Dorigen honor her promise, even though it causes him great pain. This tale highlights the complexities of love, honor, and the importance of upholding one's word, even in difficult circumstances.

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  • 40. 

    In the Knight’s Tale, which character is helped by Mars in the battle for Emily’s love?

    • Theseus

    • Arcite

    • Nicholas

    • Palamoun

    Correct Answer
    A. Arcite
    Explanation
    In the Knight's Tale, Arcite is the character who is helped by Mars in the battle for Emily's love. Mars, the god of war, aids Arcite by granting him strength and courage in his pursuit of Emily. This assistance from Mars gives Arcite an advantage over his rival, Palamoun, in their competition for Emily's affections.

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  • 41. 

    Which tale is a mock-heroic epic that satirizes chivalry and courtly love through the story of a rooster and a fox?

    • The Nun's Priest's Tale 

    • The Knight's Tale 

    • The Wife of Bath's Tale

    • The Reeve's Tale

    Correct Answer
    A. The Nun's Priest's Tale 
    Explanation
    The Nun's Priest's Tale is a mock-heroic epic, a genre that parodies the conventions of epic poetry by applying them to trivial or mundane subjects. In this case, the tale uses the story of Chanticleer the rooster and the cunning fox, Don Russell, to satirize the ideals of chivalry and courtly love. The tale is filled with humor and witty wordplay, mocking the exaggerated language and heroic deeds often found in traditional epics.

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  • 42. 

    Which of the following is not a genre of the Miller’s Tale?

    • Fabliaux

    • Burlesque

    • Romance

    • Satire

    Correct Answer
    A. Romance
    Explanation
    The Miller's Tale is a fabliau, burlesque, and satire, but it is not a romance. The story focuses on crude humor, deception, and infidelity, which are not typical elements of a romance genre. Instead, it satirizes courtly love and mocks the idea of romantic relationships.

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  • 43. 

    Which of these adjectives does not describe John in the Miller’s Tale?

    • Astute

    • Old

    • Jealous

    • Foolish

    Correct Answer
    A. Astute
    Explanation
    The adjective "astute" does not describe John in the Miller's Tale because throughout the story, John is portrayed as gullible and easily fooled. He falls for Nicholas's trickery and believes his false prophecy about a coming flood. This shows that John lacks astuteness or shrewdness in his judgment and decision-making.

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  • 44. 

    The Wife of Bath’s Tale is inspired by which of the following Medieval French poems? 

    • Ma Joie Me Semont

    • Trop Est Mes Mari Jalos 

    • Quant Floris

    • Trop Est Mes Mari Jalos 

    Correct Answer
    A. Trop Est Mes Mari Jalos 
    Explanation
    The Wife of Bath's Tale is inspired by the medieval French poem "Trop Est Mes Mari Jalos" (My Husband Is Too Jealous). In this poem, a young knight must answer the question "What do women most desire?" to save his life. This theme is also present in the Wife of Bath's Tale, where a knight faces a similar predicament and must find the answer to the question posed by Queen Guinevere to save his life. The Wife of Bath's Tale, however, adds its own unique elements and perspectives to the narrative, reflecting Chaucer's creative adaptation of source material to suit the context of "The Canterbury Tales."

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  • 45. 

    The Knight in the Wife of Bath’s tale discovers that women most want what in the world?

    • As many children as possible

    • Good looks and money

    • Health and happiness

    • Complete sovereignty over their husbands and lovers

    Correct Answer
    A. Complete sovereignty over their husbands and lovers
    Explanation
    In the Wife of Bath's tale, the Knight goes on a quest to discover what women desire most. After much searching and consulting with various women, he learns that women desire complete sovereignty over their husbands and lovers. This means that women want to have full control and power in their relationships, being able to make decisions and have authority over their partners. This desire for independence and dominance challenges traditional gender roles and highlights the Wife of Bath's feminist beliefs.

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  • 46. 

    Which pilgrim is described as having a "thumb of gold," implying that they are skilled at judging the quality of grain?

    • The Miller 

    • The Reeve 

    • The Plowman 

    • The Manciple

    Correct Answer
    A. The Miller 
    Explanation
    The Miller is portrayed as a physically imposing and somewhat dishonest character. His "thumb of gold" is a metaphorical reference to his ability to assess the quality of grain, but it also hints at his tendency to cheat customers by overcharging them. This detail contributes to his characterization as a shrewd and opportunistic figure.

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  • 47. 

    Chaucer uses low comedy, irony, satire and burlesque in the tales. Which is the harshest and most offensive of these devices?

    • Low comedy

    • Irony

    • Satire

    • Burlesque

    Correct Answer
    A. Satire
    Explanation
    Satire is considered the harshest and most offensive device among low comedy, irony, satire, and burlesque. Satire is a literary technique that uses humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to criticize and mock human vices, follies, or shortcomings. It often aims to provoke change or highlight societal issues through its biting and critical tone. Unlike low comedy, which focuses on physical humor, irony, which involves a contrast between what is expected and what actually happens, and burlesque, which uses exaggeration and mockery, satire directly targets and ridicules specific individuals, institutions, or societal norms, making it the most harsh and offensive device.

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  • 48. 

    Which tale involves a story about a group of pilgrims who encounter Death and are ultimately led to their own demise?

    • The Pardoner's Tale 

    • The Wife of Bath's Tale 

    • The Knight's Tale 

    • The Man of Law's Tale

    Correct Answer
    A. The Pardoner's Tale 
    Explanation
    The Pardoner's Tale is a moral allegory about three rioters who, in their quest to find Death and kill him, are led by their greed to their own destruction. This tale serves as a cautionary message about the dangers of avarice and the inevitability of death. It also highlights the Pardoner's own hypocrisy, as he uses this tale to manipulate people into buying his false relics.

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  • 49. 

    Which tale is a Breton lai, a type of medieval romance often featuring supernatural elements and themes of love and adventure?

    • The Franklin's Tale 

    • The Wife of Bath's Tale 

    • The Knight's Tale 

    • The Merchant's Tale

    Correct Answer
    A. The Franklin's Tale 
    Explanation
    The Franklin's Tale is classified as a Breton lai, a genre of medieval romance that often incorporates elements of the supernatural and explores themes of love, chivalry, and magic. This tale, set in Brittany, France, features a love triangle, a magical illusion, and a complex moral dilemma, reflecting the conventions of the Breton lai tradition.

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  • Current Version
  • Feb 28, 2025
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Apr 22, 2012
    Quiz Created by
    LetiBT

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