Canterbury Tales: The Monk Character Analysis

The personality of the Monk in Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales is a complex one, reflecting the contradictions and tensions of the medieval society in which he exists. The Monk is portrayed as a figure who defies the traditional expectations of his religious order, embodying a luxurious and worldly lifestyle. This essay aims to explore the various aspects of the Monk's personality, shedding light on his motivations, actions, and their implications.

Monk's Personality

The Monk in Canterbury Tales possesses a personality that deviates from the typical expectations of a monk in the medieval period. He is described as a man who enjoys hunting and fine dining, indulging in luxurious pursuits rather than dedicating himself to the ascetic lifestyle associated with his religious order. Chaucer writes, "He loved a hunting, as it were his meed, / his bridle jingled as he went. / He was a fat and personable priest..." (Canterbury Tales, Prologue, lines 165-167). These lines emphasize the Monk's fondness for hunting, a pursuit typically associated with the nobility rather than the clergy. Furthermore, his physical appearance is described as being "fat and personable," suggesting that he prioritizes physical pleasure and self-indulgence over spiritual discipline.

While the Monk's personality may seem contradictory to his religious vocation, it is important to consider the context in which he exists. The medieval period was a time of great social and cultural change, and the Monk's indulgent lifestyle can be seen as a reflection of the shifting values and priorities of society. The Monk's actions can be seen as a rebellion against the strict hierarchical structure of the Church and an assertion of his individuality and freedom.

Implications of the Monk's Personality

The Monk's personality has several implications, both for his own character and for the broader themes and messages of Canterbury Tales. Firstly, his indulgent lifestyle raises questions about the sincerity of his religious commitment. By prioritizing worldly pleasures over spiritual devotion, the Monk calls into question the integrity of the clergy as a whole. His actions suggest that the Church, as an institution, may be corrupted and focused more on material wealth and personal gain than on the well-being of its followers.

Furthermore, the Monk's personality highlights the tension between the secular and religious spheres of medieval society. The fact that a member of the clergy can engage in activities traditionally associated with the nobility, such as hunting, suggests that the boundaries between different social classes and roles are becoming increasingly blurred. This blurring of boundaries can be seen as a reflection of the changing social dynamics of the time, as well as a critique of the rigid social structures that characterized medieval society.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Monk in Canterbury Tales possesses a personality that defies the traditional expectations of his religious order. His indulgent lifestyle and pursuit of worldly pleasures raise questions about the sincerity of his religious commitment and the integrity of the Church as an institution. However, it is important to consider the context in which he exists and the broader societal implications of his actions. The Monk's personality reflects the tensions and contradictions of the medieval period, highlighting the blurring boundaries between different social classes and the changing values and priorities of society. Through his character, Chaucer invites readers to reflect on the complexities of human nature and the challenges of living in a rapidly changing world.

Bibliography

Chaucer, Geoffrey. The Canterbury Tales. Edited by Jill Mann, Oxford University Press, 2005.