Character Analysis: The Merchant Flashcards
What social class does the Merchant belong to?
The new middle-class
The Merchant is characterised as a salesman or merchant.
Describe the Merchant’s appearance.
Neat, forked beard, bright cloak, Flemish beaver hat, daintily buckled boots
His prosperous appearance reflects his status.
What skill is the Merchant noted for?
Expert in dabbling in money-changing
This indicates his involvement in financial dealings.
What is ironic about the Merchant’s financial situation?
He is in debt despite his prosperous appearance
Chaucer mocks his superficial nature.
How does Chaucer describe the Merchant despite his flaws?
As an excellent fellow with wit and wisdom
This highlights the complexity of the Merchant’s character.
What does the Merchant complain about?
His cruel wife who would outmatch Satan
This reflects his unhappiness in marriage.
How long has the Merchant been married?
Only two months
His brief marriage contributes to his misery.
What type of story does the Merchant tell when prompted?
An allegorical story
This choice reflects his cynical view of marriage.
What theme does the Merchant’s tale convey about relationships?
Ignorance and deceit are inherent in relationships
His repetition of a specific phrase emphasises this theme.
Fill in the blank: The Merchant’s tale repeats the phrase, ‘love is blynd alday, and may nat ______.’
see
This suggests a critical view on love and relationships.
