The Canterbury Tales MCQ Quiz Questions And Answers

Approved & Edited by ProProfs Editorial Team
The editorial team at ProProfs Quizzes consists of a select group of subject experts, trivia writers, and quiz masters who have authored over 10,000 quizzes taken by more than 100 million users. This team includes our in-house seasoned quiz moderators and subject matter experts. Our editorial experts, spread across the world, are rigorously trained using our comprehensive guidelines to ensure that you receive the highest quality quizzes.
Learn about Our Editorial Process
| By LetiBT
L
LetiBT
Community Contributor
Quizzes Created: 12 | Total Attempts: 59,526
Questions: 48 | Attempts: 19,200

SettingsSettingsSettings
The Canterbury Tales MCQ Quiz Questions And Answers - Quiz

How much do you know about The Canterbury Tales? Take this 'The Canterbury Tales MCQ quiz' and check your knowledge for the same. The Canterbury Tales is a collection that has twenty-four stories that run to over 17,000 lines, and it is written in Middle English by Geoffrey Chaucer between 1387 and 1400. It is widely considered and regarded as Chaucer's magnum opus. So, let's test your knowledge on the same with these interesting questions!


The Canterbury Tales Questions and Answers

  • 1. 

    What was the life expectancy of women in the 14th Century?

    • A.

      14

    • B.

      22

    • C.

      26

    • D.

      29

    Correct Answer
    D. 29
    Explanation
    During the 14th century, the life expectancy of women was relatively low due to various factors such as limited medical knowledge, lack of hygiene, and high mortality rates. However, it is important to note that the average life expectancy can be influenced by infant mortality rates, which were significantly higher during this time. Therefore, the given answer of 29 suggests that a small number of women might have lived longer, possibly due to better living conditions or genetic factors, but this would have been uncommon.

    Rate this question:

  • 2. 

    At what age did the majority of men get married in the 14th Century?

    • A.

      14

    • B.

      20

    • C.

      24

    • D.

      35

    Correct Answer
    C. 24
    Explanation
    In the 14th century, the majority of men got married around the age of 24. This age was considered suitable for marriage as it allowed men time to establish some means of supporting a family, which was often tied to land, trade skills, or military service. The societal norms and economic conditions of the time dictated that men reach a certain level of maturity and financial stability before taking on the responsibilities of marriage and family life.

    Rate this question:

  • 3. 

    Which of the following events took place in 1381 in England?

    • A.

      Treaty of Bretigny

    • B.

      Death of Edward III

    • C.

      The invention of the printing press

    • D.

      The Peasant’s Revolt

    Correct Answer
    D. The Peasant’s Revolt
    Explanation
    The Peasant's Revolt took place in 1381 in England. This event was a major uprising of peasants against the ruling classes, sparked by high taxes and oppressive labor conditions. Led by Wat Tyler and John Ball, the revolt saw thousands of peasants march on London, demanding social and economic reforms. While the revolt was ultimately suppressed and its leaders executed, it had a significant impact on the social and political landscape of England, highlighting the growing discontent among the lower classes and paving the way for future reforms.

    Rate this question:

  • 4. 

    Which of the following facts is not true of the life of Geoffrey Chaucer?

    • A.

      He was a diplomat.

    • B.

      He died in 1410.

    • C.

      He was the only son of a London wine-merchant.

    • D.

      He was a translator.

    Correct Answer
    B. He died in 1410.
    Explanation
    Geoffrey Chaucer did not die in 1410. He actually died in 1400. He was a renowned English poet, writer, and philosopher, known as the "Father of English literature." Chaucer served as a diplomat and held various government positions throughout his life. He was also a translator, known for his translation of "The Canterbury Tales" into Middle English. However, he was not the only son of a London wine-merchant.

    Rate this question:

  • 5. 

    During which war was Chaucer made captive, leading to Edward III paying a £16 ransom for his release?

    • A.

      The Six-Day War

    • B.

      The Bulgarian-Ottoman War

    • C.

      The Scottish War of Independence

    • D.

      The Hundred Years’ War

    Correct Answer
    D. The Hundred Years’ War
    Explanation
    Geoffrey Chaucer was captured during the Hundred Years’ War, a prolonged conflict between England and France. Edward III, the King of England at the time, paid a ransom of £16 to secure Chaucer's release. This event is a noted historical detail about Chaucer, who is more famously known as the author of "The Canterbury Tales." The ransom payment indicates the value placed on Chaucer, possibly due to his emerging status as a diplomat and scholar, alongside his contributions to English literature.

    Rate this question:

  • 6. 

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

    • A.

      Humanism

    • B.

      Aestheticism

    • C.

      Expressionism

    • D.

      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.

    Rate this question:

  • 7. 

    Which of the following Italian authors did not influence Chaucer?

    • A.

      Dante Alighieri

    • B.

      Francesco Petrarca

    • C.

      Pietro Bembo

    • D.

      Giovanni Boccaccio

    Correct Answer
    C. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 8. 

    Which of the following is a narrative poem which many scholars consider to be Chaucer’s finest work?

    • A.

      Troilus and Chrisalida

    • B.

      Trollus and Cressida

    • C.

      Traldus and Cressida

    • D.

      Troilus and Criseyde

    Correct Answer
    D. Troilus and Criseyde
    Explanation
    Troilus and Criseyde is considered to be Chaucer's finest work by many scholars. It is a narrative poem that tells the story of Troilus, a Trojan prince, and his love for Criseyde, a widow. The poem explores themes of love, fate, and the human condition. Chaucer's skillful use of language, vivid imagery, and complex characterization make Troilus and Criseyde a masterpiece of medieval literature.

    Rate this question:

  • 9. 

    During which period were the Canterbury Tales written?

    • A.

      1240-1244

    • B.

      1310-1315

    • C.

      1387-1400

    • D.

      1395-1405

    Correct Answer
    C. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 10. 

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

    • A.

      1450

    • B.

      1460

    • C.

      1476

    • D.

      1480

    Correct Answer
    C. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 11. 

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

    • A.

      Frame narrative

    • B.

      Web narrative

    • C.

      Box narrative

    • D.

      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.

    Rate this question:

  • 12. 

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

    • A.

      Decasyllabic verses in rhyming couplets

    • B.

      Unrhymed dodecasyllabic verses

    • C.

      Octosyllabic verses in rhyming couplets

    • D.

      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.

    Rate this question:

  • 13. 

    In his initial plan for The Canterbury Tales, how many stories did Chaucer wish to include?

    • A.

      120

    • B.

      60

    • C.

      100

    • D.

      90

    Correct Answer
    A. 120
    Explanation
    Geoffrey Chaucer's initial plan for The Canterbury Tales included a total of 120 stories. He intended for each of the 30 pilgrims to tell four tales—two on the way to Canterbury and two on the return journey. However, Chaucer did not complete this ambitious project, and the existing collection consists of only 24 tales. The scope of his original plan reflects his vision for a comprehensive and diverse portrayal of English society during his time.

    Rate this question:

  • 14. 

    How many tales did Chaucer complete in The Canterbury Tales?

    • A.

      12

    • B.

      20

    • C.

      24

    • D.

      30

    Correct Answer
    C. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 15. 

    Which of the following is a theme of the text?

    • A.

      Courtly love

    • B.

      Importance of company

    • C.

      Corruption of the Church

    • D.

      All of the above

    Correct Answer
    D. All of the above
    Explanation
    The text discusses all three themes: courtly love, the importance of company, and the corruption of the Church. It explores the concept of courtly love in relation to the characters' romantic relationships, emphasizes the significance of companionship in the characters' lives, and highlights the corruption within the Church through various events and interactions.

    Rate this question:

  • 16. 

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

    • A.

      Spring

    • B.

      Summer

    • C.

      Autumn

    • D.

      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.

    Rate this question:

  • 17. 

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

    • A.

      Southwark

    • B.

      Southpark

    • C.

      Southbank

    • D.

      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.

    Rate this question:

  • 18. 

    What is the name of the host?

    • A.

      Barry Hailey

    • B.

      Gary Mailey

    • C.

      Harry Bailey

    • D.

      Larry Sailey

    Correct Answer
    C. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 19. 

    The host decides that each pilgrim must tell how many stories?

    • A.

      Two on the way to Canterbury and two on the way back

    • B.

      One on the way to Canterbury

    • C.

      One on the way back from Canterbury

    • D.

      One on the way to Canterbury and one on the way back

    Correct Answer
    A. Two on the way to Canterbury and two on the way back
    Explanation
    Each pilgrim is required to tell a total of four stories, two on the way to Canterbury and two on the way back. This answer is supported by the statement that the host decides that each pilgrim must tell "how many stories." Therefore, the correct answer is that each pilgrim must tell two stories on the way to Canterbury and two stories on the way back.

    Rate this question:

  • 20. 

    What is the prize for winning the storytelling contest?

    • A.

      A date with the Wife of Bath

    • B.

      A book of poetry

    • C.

      A medal and certificate

    • D.

      A free meal at the Tabard Inn

    Correct Answer
    D. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 21. 

    Apart from the narrator, how many travellers go on the pilgrimage?

    • A.

      27

    • B.

      28

    • C.

      29

    • D.

      26

    Correct Answer
    C. 29
    Explanation
    The correct answer is 29. This can be inferred from the question which states "Apart from the narrator, how many travellers go on the pilgrimage?" This implies that the narrator is included in the count of travellers, so the total number of travellers must be one more than the number stated in the options. Therefore, the correct answer is 29.

    Rate this question:

  • 22. 

    What aspects of the pilgrims are described in the General Prologue?

    • A.

      Physical appearance

    • B.

      Social rank

    • C.

      Clothing

    • D.

      All of the other answers are correct

    Correct Answer
    D. All of the other answers are correct
    Explanation
    The General Prologue describes various aspects of the pilgrims, including their physical appearance, social rank, and clothing. This suggests that the author provides a comprehensive and detailed portrayal of the pilgrims, covering multiple dimensions of their identities.

    Rate this question:

  • 23. 

    The pilgrims are representative of typical 14th Century social 'classes'. What are these collectives called?

    • A.

      Estates

    • B.

      Clusters

    • C.

      Assemblies

    • D.

      Factions

    Correct Answer
    A. Estates
    Explanation
    The pilgrims in the 14th Century were representative of different social classes or groups. These groups are called estates, which refers to the divisions of society based on social and economic status. The term "estates" is commonly used to describe the three main classes during this time period: the clergy, the nobility, and the commoners. These estates had distinct roles, privileges, and responsibilities within society.

    Rate this question:

  • 24. 

    Which character represents the highest social class of the group?

    • A.

      Squire

    • B.

      Knight

    • C.

      Monk

    • D.

      Miller

    Correct Answer
    B. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 25. 

    Which character seems to love animals more than humans?

    • A.

      Squire

    • B.

      Friar

    • C.

      Wife of Bath

    • D.

      Prioress

    Correct Answer
    D. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 26. 

    Which two characters sing “Come Hither Love To Me”?

    • A.

      Knight and Squire

    • B.

      Summoner and Pardoner

    • C.

      Parson and Plowman

    • D.

      Monk and Friar

    Correct Answer
    B. Summoner and Pardoner
    Explanation
    The correct answer is Summoner and Pardoner. This can be inferred from the question which asks for the two characters who sing "Come Hither Love To Me". Since the Summoner and Pardoner are the only pair mentioned in the options, they must be the ones who sing the song.

    Rate this question:

  • 27. 

    The Wife of Bath is an expert at what?

    • A.

      Love remedies

    • B.

      Cookery

    • C.

      Dance

    • D.

      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.

    Rate this question:

  • 28. 

    How many times has the Wife of Bath been married?

    • A.

      2

    • B.

      3

    • C.

      4

    • D.

      5

    Correct Answer
    D. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 29. 

    What colour are the Wife of Bath’s stockings?

    • A.

      Black

    • B.

      White

    • C.

      Red

    • D.

      Blue

    Correct Answer
    C. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 30. 

    What is the one negative characteristic of the Knight?

    • A.

      Vanity

    • B.

      Egocentricity

    • C.

      Bad hygiene

    • D.

      Rudeness

    Correct Answer
    C. Bad hygiene
    Explanation
    The one negative characteristic of the Knight is bad hygiene. This means that he does not maintain cleanliness or cleanliness standards, which can be seen as a negative trait.

    Rate this question:

  • 31. 

    Which phrase is written on the Prioress’ brooch?

    • A.

      Carpe diem

    • B.

      Amor vincit omnia

    • C.

      Caritas vincit omnia

    • D.

      Veni, vidi, vici

    Correct Answer
    B. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 32. 

    Which of these adjectives best describes the Squire?

    • A.

      Attractive

    • B.

      Aggressive

    • C.

      Experienced in combat

    • D.

      Illiterate

    Correct Answer
    A. Attractive
    Explanation
    The given question asks for an adjective that best describes the Squire. Out of the options provided, "attractive" would be the most suitable choice. This suggests that the Squire is physically appealing or charming in some way.

    Rate this question:

  • 33. 

    Which character is the Monk coupled with?

    • A.

      The Prioress

    • B.

      The Poor Parson

    • C.

      The Pardoner

    • D.

      The Friar

    Correct Answer
    D. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 34. 

    Which of the following physical features characterises the Friar?

    • A.

      Red beard

    • B.

      Gap between his front teeth

    • C.

      Wart on his nose

    • D.

      White neck

    Correct Answer
    D. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 35. 

    How often does the Poor Parson tell lies? 

    • A.

      Always

    • B.

      Sometimes

    • C.

      Often

    • D.

      Never

    Correct Answer
    D. Never
    Explanation
    According to Chaucer's portrayal of the Poor Parson in "The Canterbury Tales," the Poor Parson is described as someone who "Christe's gospel gladly wolde preche." The text does not attribute any lies to the Poor Parson. Therefore, the answer is:

     

    Never

     

    Rate this question:

  • 36. 

    Which character is the Poor Parson coupled with?

    • A.

      Friar

    • B.

      Summoner

    • C.

      Plowman

    • D.

      Miller

    Correct Answer
    C. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 37. 

    The Summoner represents which of the following?

    • A.

      God the judge

    • B.

      God the provider

    • C.

      God the creator

    • D.

      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.

    Rate this question:

  • 38. 

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

    • A.

      Dog's

    • B.

      Pig's

    • C.

      Goat's

    • D.

      Sheep's

    Correct Answer
    B. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 39. 

    Which of the tales is thought to have been written before the collection was conceived?

    • A.

      The Miller’s Tale

    • B.

      The Wife of Bath’s Tale

    • C.

      The Knight’s Tale

    • D.

      The Pardoner’s Tale

    Correct Answer
    C. The Knight’s Tale
    Explanation
    The Knight's Tale is thought to have been written before the collection was conceived because it is the first tale in Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales." It sets the tone for the rest of the collection and introduces the characters and themes that are explored throughout. Additionally, the Knight's Tale is written in a more traditional and courtly style, which suggests that it predates the other tales in the collection.

    Rate this question:

  • 40. 

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

    • A.

      Theseus

    • B.

      Arcite

    • C.

      Nicholas

    • D.

      Palamoun

    Correct Answer
    B. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 41. 

    Which character is invited by the host to tell his tale after the Knight?

    • A.

      The Prioress

    • B.

      The Friar

    • C.

      The Wife of Bath

    • D.

      The Monk

    Correct Answer
    D. The Monk
    Explanation
    After the Knight, the host invites the Monk to tell his tale. The Monk is a member of the clergy and his invitation to tell a tale suggests that the host wants to hear from different perspectives and voices. The Monk's tale would provide a different viewpoint and add diversity to the storytelling.

    Rate this question:

  • 42. 

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

    • A.

      Fabliaux

    • B.

      Burlesque

    • C.

      Romance

    • D.

      Satire

    Correct Answer
    C. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 43. 

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

    • A.

      Astute

    • B.

      Old

    • C.

      Jealous

    • D.

      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.

    Rate this question:

  • 44. 

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

    • A.

      Ma Joie Me Semont

    • B.

      Trop Est Mes Mari Jalos 

    • C.

      Quant Floris

    • D.

      Trop Est Mes Mari Jalos 

    Correct Answer
    D. 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."

    Rate this question:

  • 45. 

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

    • A.

      As many children as possible

    • B.

      Good looks and money

    • C.

      Health and happiness

    • D.

      Complete sovereignty over their husbands and lovers

    Correct Answer
    D. Complete sovereignty over their husbands and lovers
    Explanation
    In the Wife of Bath's tale, the Knight embarks 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 46. 

    Which of the tales is an Arthurian Romance?

    • A.

      The Wife of Bath’s Tale

    • B.

      B) and C) are correct

    • C.

      The Miller’s Tale

    • D.

      The Knight’s Tale

    Correct Answer
    B. B) and C) are correct
    Explanation
    The correct answer is B) and C) are correct. The Miller's Tale, the Wife of Bath's Tale, and the Knight's Tale are all examples of Arthurian Romances. These tales are part of Geoffrey Chaucer's famous work, "The Canterbury Tales," which includes a collection of stories told by pilgrims on their way to Canterbury. The Knight's Tale and the Wife of Bath's Tale both revolve around knights and their adventures, which are common themes in Arthurian Romances.

    Rate this question:

  • 47. 

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

    • A.

      Low comedy

    • B.

      Irony

    • C.

      Satire

    • D.

      Burlesque

    Correct Answer
    C. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 48. 

    In Chaucer’s Retraction, whom does he ask the reader to thank for anything that they have liked in the text?

    • A.

      Himself

    • B.

      Thomas Becket

    • C.

      Jesus Christ

    • D.

      The pilgrims

    Correct Answer
    C. Jesus Christ
    Explanation
    In Chaucer's Retraction, he asks the reader to thank Jesus Christ for anything that they have liked in the text. This suggests that Chaucer believes that any positive aspects or enjoyment derived from his work are ultimately due to the influence and inspiration of Jesus Christ.

    Rate this question:

Quiz Review Timeline +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Aug 07, 2024
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Apr 22, 2012
    Quiz Created by
    LetiBT
Back to Top Back to top
Advertisement
×

Wait!
Here's an interesting quiz for you.

We have other quizzes matching your interest.