{Tiara Desire-Brisard, Trinity College} Most of Chaucer’s works can function as commentaries for social class, religion, and even the politics of his day. His mastery of language and characterization allow him to create complex storylines... more
{Tiara Desire-Brisard, Trinity College} Most of Chaucer’s works can function as commentaries for social class, religion, and even the politics of his day. His mastery of language and characterization allow him to create complex storylines that are hyper-realistic in both the medieval world and our modern one. Regarding the Knight and the Squire, their familial bond can be seen through the descriptions in their “General Prologue” portraits, and in a more nuanced way, it can be seen within the stylistic elements of their stories. Since the Knight and the Squire are nobility, they are expected to represent chivalry and honor within their language and actions. Yet, while the Knight appears to perfectly emulate this, the Squire falls short and gives into the youthful trends of the day. Even though they hold similar values, the Squire’s lack of maturity, desire to travel, and romantic ideals distance himself from his more traditional father.
