Character Analysis of The Wife of Bath

The Wife of Bath, one of the most memorable characters in Geoffrey Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales, is a complex and intriguing figure. Known for her lusty liver, meaning her passionate and insatiable desires, she defies societal expectations of a medieval woman. This essay will delve into the character of the Wife of Bath, exploring her unique traits and motivations. By analyzing her relationships, her personal history, and her views on sexuality and marriage, it becomes evident that the Wife of Bath is a multifaceted character who challenges traditional gender roles and expectations.

One aspect of the Wife of Bath's character that stands out is her numerous marriages. She proudly boasts about her five husbands and the control she exerted over them. This lusty liver of hers not only refers to her sexual desires but also to her desire for power and dominance in relationships. The Wife of Bath believes that women should have control over their husbands, and she uses her experiences to justify her point of view.

According to the Wife of Bath, she knows the secret to a happy marriage: women must have the upper hand. In her Prologue, she states, "Experience, though none authority / Were in this world, is right enough for me / To speak of woe that is in marriage" (Chaucer, 45-47). By emphasizing the importance of experience, the Wife of Bath suggests that her wisdom comes from firsthand knowledge. She views marriage as a power struggle, and her lusty liver drives her to assert her dominance in each relationship.

Furthermore, the Wife of Bath's marriages reflect a desire for financial independence. She is not content relying on her husbands for sustenance. Instead, she seeks to accumulate wealth through her marriages, as evidenced by her numerous trips to Jerusalem. This pursuit of wealth aligns with her assertive and dominant nature, demonstrating that her lusty liver extends beyond sexual desires.

To truly understand the Wife of Bath's character, it is crucial to examine her personal history. She is proud of her experience and believes it gives her authority to speak on marriage and relationships. The Wife of Bath uses her personal stories to defend her actions and views.

One of the most significant aspects of her personal history is her ability to manipulate men. The Wife of Bath recounts how she manipulated her first three husbands, using both her sexuality and her wit to control them. She proudly proclaims, "In wifhood I will use my instrument / As freely as my Maker has it sent" (Chaucer, 139-140). This statement reveals the Wife of Bath's belief in using her feminine charms to her advantage. Her lusty liver empowers her to navigate the patriarchal society she lives in and assert her own agency.

Additionally, the Wife of Bath's personal history includes encounters with various men, both in and out of marriage. Her sexual experiences outside of marriage challenge societal norms and expectations. Instead of conforming to the idea of chastity and fidelity, the Wife of Bath embraces her lusty liver and acts upon her desires.

The Wife of Bath's views on sexuality and marriage are radical for her time. She embraces her sexual desires and rejects societal norms that dictate female submission. Her lusty liver is a symbol of her rebellion against the patriarchy.

Throughout her Prologue, the Wife of Bath justifies her actions by citing biblical and historical examples of powerful women who exercised their sexual agency. She argues that if Solomon, known for his wisdom, had many wives and concubines, then women should be allowed the same freedoms. This argument challenges the notion that women should be monogamous and submissive.

Furthermore, the Wife of Bath believes that sex is a fundamental aspect of a marriage. She argues that sexual pleasure is a gift from God and should not be denied within the confines of wedlock. Her lusty liver drives her to seek sexual satisfaction, and she encourages other women to do the same.

In conclusion, the Wife of Bath is a character who defies societal expectations and challenges traditional gender roles. Her lusty liver represents her passionate desires for both power and pleasure. Through her relationships, personal history, and views on sexuality and marriage, it becomes apparent that the Wife of Bath is a complex and multifaceted character. She uses her experiences and wisdom to assert her dominance and independence, ultimately advocating for women's agency in a patriarchal society. The Wife of Bath's character serves as a reminder that women have always had a voice and a desire for freedom, even in the medieval period.