You will utilize this post to complete an online unit regarding Beowulf and Chaucer. As you complete your work, be sure to save it as a Word or Google Document. This unit will take some time, so be sure to work incrementally and manage your time well. Some students find it helpful to copy and paste this post onto their document for convenience. You will submit your completed unit (as a comment to this post) no later than midnight on Sunday, December 18. Please be sure to identify which "part" is which. On Monday, December 19, I will print, read, and grade your work. You may post it all at once, or in pieces. You will be graded holistically on the + to - scale for 2 quizzes.
Click here to link to a full-text online translation of Beowulf. I do not expect you to read the entire work, but you must "sample" enough of it to get a feel for Old English and respond to the following:
B2. What is kenning? Find 3 examples of kenning and defend your selections (paragraph).
B3. Beowulf is indicative of Old English and is infused with a curious blend of the traditions and values of Anglo-Saxon culture and the rise of Christianity. Do a bit of research regarding the Anglo-Saxons. Quote and discuss passages from the text that represent this unique dynamic. Use MLA format to cite your sources.
For The Canterbury Tales,
CA: Click here to access the text. Read The Prologue and the Introduction in their entirety. Chaucer will introduce you to each of his pilgrims; choose 3 of them. Discuss how Chaucer characterizes them: their class, appearance, character, etc. (3 paragraphs).
CB: Click here to check out a dope rap version of The Prologue. Describe the attire of the MC's to verify your visit.
CD: Click here to hear an audio recording of The Prologue in Middle English. Describe the narrator's voice and your impressions regarding how pronunciation, accent and emphasis help you decode the passage.
CE: Click here to access the Pardoner's Tale. Read his tale (lines 375-682).Write a 3-5 paragraph essay in response to the following prompt: How is the Pardoner's Tale, in relation to the Pardoner's persona and role, painfully ironic? How does this irony conflict or complement the irony within the Tale itself? How might you characterize Chaucer's tone as echoed through his juxtaposition of the Pardoner's story and personality? What might we conclude about Chaucer's attitude toward religion and morality?
Part G: Click here to access a link to Hieronymous Bosch's painting "The Garden of Earthly Delights". Synthesis prompt: Bosch is a Dutch painter who lived and worked shortly after the publication of the Tales. You will be able to zoom in a bit. Examine the triptych and respond to the following questions in paragraph form. 1. What scenes are being depicted in each panel? 2. Create a conversation (RAFT style) between Chaucer and the Pardoner as they discuss the image (particularly the right panel).
141 comments:
B1. A caesura is a pause in the middle of a line or verse of poetry. Within Beowulf, caesuras can be found quite frequently. One such pause is found in the line “with breastplate and blade: on his bosom lay”. The colon indicates for the reader to stop a moment before continuing on with the reading. Where the line could be read without the colon, it serves as a caesura. It signals to the reader that there is a pause within the line, and it must be of some value, whether to the poem inherently, or to the aesthetics of it alone.
B2. A kenning is defined as a figurative expression, which usually consists of a compound or hyphenated word, in place of a more concrete, single word. Kennings are commonplace in Beowulf. The “whale-path” is an example, as it replaces “ocean”, but offers the same information by hyphenating two words which are mutually relevant to the sea. “Mead-house”, too, is an example of a kenning; it refers figuratively to a tavern and is a compound. Where one would expect to see an adjective referring to color or extremeness to describe the dark, “death-shadow” is found. The quotation is considered a kenning because it replaces a concrete description with a figurative compound, much like the others.]
B3. Beowulf is a composed of two types of religions which highlight both the traditional Anglo-Saxon views, and Christianity’s rising role in the culture. Within the text the Christian God and Anglo-Saxon concepts are represented. The epic depicts the personified force of “fate” (Katsuya-Corbet 5) and how it controls, rather than guides, one: “Forced of fate, he shall find his way” (33). “Wyrd” (18), the Anglo-Saxon idea of personal destiny, much like fate, also has the ability to affect one’s decisions. While according to Christianity, one has the power of free will, Beowulf displays how Wyrd has the ability to have actions and thoughts “denied” (78). The traditional Anglo-Saxon views are not singly represented in the poem. It is stated that the “shelter of God” (6) is sought after and valued. It is “God they thanked” (11) for the lack of rivalry. “Hell-runes” (10) are spoken of as “horrors” (10). The ultimate and unchallenged “judgment of God” (10) is referred to and is paired with the notion that those “who in harm and hatred hales his soul to fiery embraces” (10); God’s power and Hell’s wrath are both known and understood, according to the text. It is known that after death, one may ascend to Heaven and “friendship find in the Father’s arms!” (10) The rise of the Christian faith is apparent in Beowulf, but the original belief system in not forgotten.
Chris Robinson
Period A
B1:
A caesura is a break, a pause, usually near the middle of a verse. An example of a caesura is the line “the leader beloved who long had ruled….”. This respite is in line 6 of page 6 of the Prelude of the Founder of the Danish House. This is here to suggest that this leader had once been alive and ruled, but has stepped down. The break is to catch the eye of and establish a sort of connection with the reader’s critical side. The reader is supposed to make a sense, emotional, or key tie with this before continuing onto the next line.
B2:
Kenning is a conventional poetic phrase used for or in addition to the usual name of a person or thing, especially in Icelandic and Anglo-Saxon verse. One example of a kenning is the combining of the words “whale-path”. A whale-path is quite relevant to the term “ocean” because whales forge their paths and lives throughout the oceans. Another example could be a “helpmate”, suggesting a companion of some sort. This companion could be a friend, husband, wife, etc. A mate is someone a person may reproduce with, or just spend their life with, and help. However, the text refers to a “helpmate dear”, which is quite possibly relevant to a spouse. A “breaker-of-rings” is kenning for a king or chieftain of a comitatus, or a military reguine with its leader. This leader disperses “treasure fetched from far” to the members of the group. He breaks off gold from the spiral rings, hence the name, before handing out the pieces as rewards. The combination of words, kenning, is meant to depict a word that hadn’t already been invented, but have a similar meaning to today’s new found, singular words.
Chris Robinson Part 2
B3:
There is a curious blend of traditions and values of the Anglo-Saxon culture, along with the rise of Christianity. Some of this includes just the language of the Anglo-Saxons. This era denotes English history between about 550 and 1066 AD, which is when Old English was spoken and written. The areas dominated by the Anglo-Saxons were much of what is now England, and some of southeastern Scotland. Old English was originated by the Angles, so presumed, who came from the general area of Angeln, which is in modern day Germany. Hence why there is some Germanic tone to Modern English. The name England in Old English translates to Engla Land, which also originated from this tribe. Middle English is not as close to the early Germanic languages as Old English is. Old English is not amplified with the Latin language and holds many morphological features, such as nominal and verbal inflection, which happened to be lost in the 12th and 14th centuries. Today, the languages closest to Old English are the Frisian languages. They are spoken by only a mere few hundred thousand people in northern Germany and the Netherlands. Although a main highlight that puts the Anglo-Saxons in the spotlight, Old English is not the only piece that deserves to be credited.
Alongside the Anglo-Saxons language, the rise of Christianity played a key role in determining the culture and traditions of the era. Christianity began as a form of Germanic paganism, which is closely related to the Old Norse religion, along with many other Germanic pre-Christian beliefs/ cultures. Christianity eventually replaced the religion of the English around the 7th and 8th centuries. Northumbria and Mercia were introduced to Celtic Christianity by monks from Ireland, while the Synod of Whitby chose to accept Roman Christianity. The old religions were partially lost before being recorded, so today’s historians’ knowledge is primarily based off surviving customs and lore, texts, archeological findings, and etymological links. One of the recorded references is that a Kentish king would only meet the missionary St. Augustine in the open air, where he was under the protection of the sky god, Woden. One of the historians’ main sources of pre-Christian beliefs is the written Christian prohibition set upon acts of paganism. These dying traditions and cultures are what outlined and defined the Anglo-Saxon era. Although nearly gone, the Anglo-Saxons are still highly recognized by literature for their use of English, and especially the epic poem Beowulf.
Works Cited
Anglo-Saxons. 2011. Wikipedia. 12 Dec. 2011. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anglo-Saxons
CA:
Chris Robinson Part 3
Chaucer characterizes many pilgrims throughout The Canterbury Tales, especially towards that of their class, appearance, and outward character. The monk was one of the many who rode with his fellow pilgrims. However, Chaucer describes the monk with a sweet tooth towards “hunting [as a] sport”. The monk is further described as not giving “a plucked hen” towards the idea that “hunters are not holy men”, suggesting that the overall characterization of the man is contradiction; he is against what he’s been taught. The monk was also described as wearing “sleeves [that] were made with fur at the hand” and “With fine grey fur, the finest in the land”, portraying the idea that this monk does not wear what the other monks do, again on the premises that this monk is defying the rules of his religion. The bodily outlook of the monk was described as having a bald head that shines, a fat body although he “stood in goodly case”, and was not “pale as some tormented ghost”, meaning he is not white, but instead has a tan from being outside so often. Chaucer’s overall character description of the monk was meant to create a hypocritical atmosphere.
A knight who walked amongst the many pilgrims who began their voyage, and much of a gentleman he was. He loved “To ride about the world, loved chivalry, Truth, honour, freedom and all courtesy”. He treated everyone equally with respect. The knight was “Often put in the place of honour, a chair” for his acts of courage, bravery, and kindness, as every knight should be. He fought many battles, and “always killed his foe” in the name of his king. Not only did Chaucer characterize the knight’s acts and views, but also touched upon the personality and outward appearance as well. This knight’s temper was as “meekly as a maid”, along with never having “any vileness said”, saying that he is rarely ever mad. Along with a strong personality, a meekly outward appearance was given to the knight, depending on how one sees the situation. The knight appeared “not gaily dressed” in shining armor, but instead dressed with regular cloth that was stained by his habergeon. Although his outward exhibition didn’t match his status, it does ironically piece together with his personality; he fairly places judgment onto others, and commits good actions. Although ironic in certain aspects to himself, the knight Chaucer displays is that of charisma and what the typical fairy-tail knight is thought of.
With the knight rode his son, the squire, who resembled that of his father very much, not only in terms of personality, but his outward character and appearance. Chaucer describes this pilgrim’s personality as an outgoing one. He could “make songs and words thereto indite, joust, and dance too, as well as sketch and write”, suggesting that Chaucer is bestowing upon this squire not all, but many of the traits of his father, who has a brilliant personality as well. Given to this squire are the gifts of courteousy, humbleness, and the will to push forward. However, Chaucer doesn’t end here. He further induces the reader to continue reading by illuminating the outward character and appearance of the squire to a degree to catch one’s eye. In stature, he was given “average length, Wondrously active, agile, and of great strength”. He was further portrayed as wearing a short gown with sleeves both wide and long. He looked to be “as fresh as is the month of May”, while singing or whistling all day. Squires aren’t typically looked upon as being vibrant like the one Chaucer used in his story, but instead appear to be the henchmen of the knights they ride along with, carrying all the equipment, and looked down upon. Chaucer’s struggles to characterize the monk, the knight, and the squire are looked upon as a bigger idea, as they all play a bigger role in the main story, and these characteristics are very critical.
Chris Robinson Part 4
CB:
There are three guys in the dope rap version of The Prologue. Two are white, and the other is black. They are all dressed up like college frap boys, and make complete fools of themselves in the video. The rap takes place in a park, most likely in the basketball court area.
CD:
The narrator’s voice is that like what one would expect to hear from an announcer of some sort in the medieval era. It sounds like some of the voices portrayed in ‘Monty Python: The Holy Grail’. The way the narrator speaks also gives an atmosphere as though someone from the Anglo-Saxon era is speaking, helping decode the passage quicker.
Part G:
1. In the picture to the left, it seems as though the picture is trying to portray peace, serenity, and quietness. There isn’t too much going on. It almost seems as if it’s heaven too, especially since there is a Christ-like figure standing in the picture. The middle picture represents Earth and the many fanatical things that go on. War, hunting, lust, sin, and entertainment are shown. The right panel describes what Hell would look like. Pain, suffering, sin, demons, and those who sinned are painted in the portrait.
2. Chaucer: What are your thoughts upon the lower Triptych, Pardoner?
Pardoner: Not exactly in order my thoughts are. Is quite chaotic indeed.
Chaucer: With that, I agree most. Anger, hate, sin, evil are what my eyes lay upon.
Pardoner: My worst nightmare looks as though it may come to life through this. A Hell it appears to be. Aye, I have visited a place like this before.
Chaucer: Have you?
Pardoner: Yes, and a demon’s bone I pilfered from it. Is it of any interest?
Chaucer: I am your creator. Trickery of your schemes does not tempt me.
Pardoner: Savages and beasts roam amongst the plains of this Hell. Many of our kind skitter through as well, though they appear to be in pain. Why is this?
Chaucer: This is Hell, Pardoner. A place where sinners go after death.
Allie Zelinski – Beowulf and Chaucer: A Dynamic Duo
Beowulf:
B1. A caesura is a break or pause in a piece of writing, usually in the middle of a verse. There are a lot of different examples of caesuras in Beowulf with one on almost every page. An example of a caesura is towards the beginning of it.
“Heorogar, then Hrothgar, then Halga brave;
and I heard that -- was -- ‘s queen, and Heathoscylfing’s helpmate dear.”
There is a big gap or pause in the middle of the verse. It is naming the brave people and the queen’s helpers but there is a break in the middle of the verse. This is a very obvious example of a caesura in Beowulf.
B2. A kenning is a compound expression in Old English and Old Norse poetry with metaphorical meaning, e.g., oar-steed = ship. There are many of these in Beowulf in order for the people to talk about things they are referring to. Some examples of that are “battle-sweat” to mean blood, “sleep of the sword” to mean death, and “mind’s worth” to mean honour. All of these are words come from other more simple words to explain something more. They were trying to explain what they mean in other words that they may not be able to come up with. It is also a different form of diction.
B3. Anglo Saxons had many different values of their own but later on combined values of religion and God. Their religious views were like those of the “Vikings of Scandinavia, they believed in many Gods.” The Anglo Saxons were also considered to be “superstitious” and believed in “lucky charms.” Explained in Beowulf the Anglo Saxons mixed not only religion but also their own beliefs of dark spirits coming after them. “Cain awoke all the woful breeds, Etins and elves and evil-spirits, as well as the giants that warred with God weary while” has Bible allusions with a name like Cain. It also shows their fears of mystical like creatures that they would use “potions, stones, or jewels” would protect them from that. The Anglo Saxons then were bombarded by the monks that wanted to convert them to Christianity and as a result of that, “many Anglo Saxons turned to Christianity.” In the Christian religion it is believed that in the life after death people will face God for his ultimate judgment of them as is spoken of in Beowulf. “could the prince approach his throne, -- ‘twas judgment of God.” The Anglo Saxons show that they have been converted to the Christian religion based on what is in the epic poem.
Works Cited:
N/A. "Beowulf." N/A. Beowulf. Unknown: Unknown, Unknown. Unknown.
Unknown. BBC-Primary History. 15 Decemeber 2011 .
Unknown. BBC-Primary History. 15 Decemeber 2011 .
Allie Zelinski – Beowulf and Chaucer: A Dynamic Duo
The Canterbury Tales:
CA. The knight is the first pilgrim that is introduced in The Canterbury Tales. He “loved chivalry, Truth, honour, freedom and all courtesy.” A knight in this time, was considered to be a higher up person; one that others tend to look up to. They are important figures and are usually rich. He is characterized that way because he has a horse he rides. Something that stands out and seems stranger compared to usual knights is his appearance. He is dressed in “a tunic of simple cloth” that was “discoloured and stained.” Most knights are thought to wear shinning armor and have swords. This knight wears just the contrary. He fought in many “battles” and was “so strong and brave.”
The next pilgrim the reader is introduced to is The Squire. A squire being someone who is in training to be a knight or follows the knight around and helps them. This squire is “a lover and lively bachelor.” He is a young man “some twenty years of age he was.” He had “locks well curled” and “was of average length.” He was looking to “win” a young “lady’s grace.” He is characterized as being “courteous…and humble, willing and able.” He seems to be a happy young man by the way he “ singing…or whistling, all the day.” The Squire is someone who is still pretty high up in the order of importance but not extremely important for he his like a servant to the knight.
Another pilgrim the reader becomes familiar with is The Merchant. The merchant is lower on the scale of importance since he selling things to the other people on the street. He needs to make a living somehow to provide for his family. He seems like a scroungey man with a “forked beard” and wearing a “motley gown” He is characterized as a smart man who “knew how to deal foreign currencies” and “kept all his wits well set.” He is someone who cannot be that important because “to tell the truth, his name I can’t recall.”
CB. The first guy that is shown is one guy who is wearing a blue and tan plaid like hat. He is wearing a black t-shirt that says “Maryknoll High School Japanese Club 2005”. For pants he has a pair of dark wash jeans on. The second guy that is shown is wearing a red Dr. Pepper t-shirt. His also has a gold ring and black sunglasses on. He is the only one out of the three who has light wash jeans on. The last guy that appears has a brown, white, and black button down stripped shirt on. He is also wearing a brown shirt underneath. He is wearing a tan baseball cap on his head as well. He is the other man who is wearing dark wash jeans.
CD. The narrator has an older sounding voice. He tends to start the sentence off loud and strong but then slowly drifts off towards the end of the sentence. He drags on certain words longer than others. He adds a “y”, “e”, or “ie” sound to the end of a lot of words we still use to day. For example, “shoures soote” meaning sweet showers and “melodye” meaning melody, they are words like shower and melody with added sounds to the end of them. If the listener takes away those extra sounds and focuses on the root word sound it is a little easier to decode what the narrator is saying.
Allie Zelinski – Beowulf and Chaucer: A Dynamic Duo
CE. The Pardoner’s Tale is painfully ironic because he is supposed to be one of high up authority and he forgives pardons peoples’ sins yet he seems to be committing a lot of sins. He is getting poisonous potions and lying to people about it. He puts it in the drink of someone and lets the people die. Killing someone is considered to be a sin and yet he continues to do so. He takes the money that people give him to forgive their sins and uses it to buy the poison. It is ironic that someone so involved in the church would do something so destructive.
It complements the irony within the Tale itself because they are trying to find death and kill it. Death seems to be going around and killing so many and they want to put a stop to it. The Pardoner is in on the plan to kill Death as well. Without this type of irony the tale would play out differently and would not work in the same manner that it does now. If the irony conflicted with the tale it would be hard to imagine, understand, or believe such thing from a Pardoner. Chaucer deliberately puts this in the work to show his true attitude towards religion and morality. He is sharing his opinion about religion being a corrupt thing. People whom are in charge and try to hold authority are usually the ones who do not do what they are supposed to. The Pardoner is supposed to be a trusted person that people go to in order to get their sins forgiven. The Pardoner does that but commits his own crimes proving that he is a human being and makes mistakes and sins as well.
Chaucer uses a very comical tone as echoed through the juxtaposition of the Pardoner’s story and personality. He had the Pardoner do things that most would not expect him to do, such as buying poison and giving it to people to drink and to kill them. He is trying to go after Death and getting it to stop killing people but on the other hand he is killing others. By going after Death and blaming it on that, covers up what he is doing. This leaves a comical tone from Chaucer and it sets a whole new mood than the usual.
CG. 1. In the first panel on the far left, appears to be Adam and Eve like figures that are talking with a man who could be Jesus or God. They are standing on the Earth with animals all around. The animals are drinking from the pond or eating the grass. The trees are bearing many fruits, flowers, and leaves. It seems as though everything is just starting out. The second panel, in the middle has a little more going on. There are more than just three people standing there. There are many people and they seem to be taking control of the animals that are around them. There are more animals around as well. This could possibly be a few years after the first panel. The land is changing and there are structures that appear to be houses. People are working, talking, and socializing. The last panel, on the far right, is darker. It is a few more years after the middle panel. It looks like some other thing or person is controlling the people. There are human body pieces being used as houses or structures. The people are being killed and eaten.
Allie Zelinski – Beowulf and Chaucer: A Dynamic Duo
2. Chaucer: Can you explain to me what the main purpose of the painting is?
Pardoner: It shows the way of life from then and now. Life is good and people are busy but every day there are things that are around us that are certain temptations. The birds in the painting represent the devil and temptations. It is our job as humans to ignore the devil and temptations. As life goes on, temptations come and sometimes humans give into the temptations, lies, and sins.
Chaucer: Interesting. Why is the last panel such a dark panel filled with such doom?
Pardoner: It demonstrates what could happen if people give in to the bad things in this world that unfortunately people create.
Chaucer: Could this be a prediction for into the future?
Pardoner: I believe it eventually could happen. If people keep acting the way they do.
Chaucer: Why is the middle panel the largest of the three?
Pardoner: I believe this is the part that the world is in and it is half way in there but not completely. Just a few simple decisions and the world could be there.
B1. Caesura is when there is a pause in the middle of a sentence to put an emphasis on those words in the space. An example in Beowulf is “No man is able to say in sooth, no son of the halls, no hero 'neath heaven, -- who harbored that freight!”(6). Caesura is used to highlight the importance of the words “who harbored that freight” in that sentence. The words are isolated to express the significance that there is no man who doesn’t have that fear. Caesura is used throughout the novel to express extreme points and put a new label on things that would not normally be regarded as seriously before.
B2. Kenning is a combination of words to describe another word. An example of Kenning would be “whale-path”, that author choice to use these words to describe the sea and give the sea a deeper meaning. The word “land-dwellers” are people that live on the land; most men who live on the sea call those who don’t “land dwellers”. The author utilizes the term “war-gear” to describe armor, the kenning puts an emphasize on how armor is worn for war. Kenning makes some terms metaphorical and can add a certain connotation to a term.
B3. During the fifth century, England went through many great changes; such as many kingdoms converting to Christianity. Throughout the story there are many examples of the changing religion that are evident with the references to God, “Forth he fared at the fated moment, sturdy Scyld to the shelter of God.”(6) During the early years of the 5th century the East Coast of England was attacked by the Barbarians. In the novel, there are many references to boats and fighting out on the sea. “On the breast of the boat, the breaker-of-rings, by the mast the mighty one. Many a treasure fetched from far was freighted with him. No ship have I known so nobly dight with weapons of war and weeds of battle,” (6).
"Anglo-Saxon England." Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. Web. 13 Dec. 2011. .
CA. One of the pilgrims that are introduced in the prologue is the Monk. This monk is not described as the stereo-typical monk. The Monk is described as a bald man that has large bulging eyes. The author likes the monk and “his opinion was good”. The monk wears a lot of fur which was symbolic of wealth in the past and that is not usually typical of monks. The monk also doesn’t spend all of his time studying religion, while in most cases that is all that monks do. The knight is the first pilgrim to be introduced in the story. The knight is described as wearing a simple discolored tunic. In contrast to his clothes, the Knight has a very colorful personality and an impressive past. The Knight was a gentleman who strongly believed in chivalry. The knight fought in many great battles and was considered very noble. The knight is not only brave, but he is also very wise. The author describes the knight as “perfect” in the story.
A pilgrim that is not very important to the narrator is the merchant. The narrator claims that he does not recall the name of the merchant. The merchant is described is portrayed as a man with a fork beard. The merchant is a quiet man that only seems to speak about the wins and losses of the battles he fought in. The merchant is good with money and claims that he is not in debt to anyone, which is good for a many that is always trading and bargaining.
CB. There are three guys in the video. One is wearing a red dr.pepper shirt, sunglasses and jeans. Another is wearing a tannish striped polo and a baseball cap that is the same color as the shirt. The third guy is wearing a black shirt that says something about a club in 2005 and some white and blue hat. They all look to be in their early thirties, which make this video a little strange. At the end, the guy in the tan pretends to punch the camera.
CD. The narrator has an English man’s voice. The accent makes the reading sound more authentic. The story sounds like it is in a completely different language. The narrator does not make any mistakes, which makes it easier to hear and understand what he is saying. I can’t tell what he is saying; I can only understand a few words. This reading allows me to understand what the language sounded like in the past. The language is rough and sounds more German than any Romantic language such as French or Spanish.
CE. Shifting from a simple gathering to a sad separation. In The Pardoner’s Tale, Chaucer utilizes dark irony and comedic characterization to express his criticism on morality and religion, and how it truly is “so false and so unkind”.
In the story there are many examples of irony. Instead of pardoning death the pardoner goes out with his friends to find death "Death shall be dead if we find where he went.”, but instead they find a large sum of gold. The man who leaves plans to kill his friends and his friends plan to kill the man who leaves. The celebration the two men have after killing their friend turns out to be their demise. The men go on a hunt to find death, and death manages to catch up with them in the end. The men got together to have a couple of drinks and they all turned on each other to gain some gold. In the end the pardoner did many unholy things for gold, while he would normally forgive others of their wrongdoings for gold.
The characters represent the major criticism of morality and religion. The pardoner is anything but religious, he only helps people for money, “My holy pardon cures and will suffice,
So that it brings me gold, or silver brings,”. The characters go after death with good intentions at first, but once money becomes involved all of their good will turns sour. They all plan to kill each other because each of them wants all of the money. These men can work together to kill and harm others but they only look out for themselves when they may be able to gain money. Each man is a greedy fool that underestimated the greed in each other and died because of it.
Every man is supposed to be holy and do his best to make morally correct decisions. Chaucer knows that it is otherwise and uses this story to show the reader the true values of men. Pardoners are people that forgive sins for money, but the original reason for the sins was the gain of money. Religion is not morally correct and whoever has money is the person that is morally right. Chaucer shows that people have morals but the will disappear the second that money gets involved. The irony shows that moral can change quickly and the characterization shows that money buys forgiveness and religion sells to whoever is willing to buy it.
Part G. In the panel on the far left, there is a bright green meadow. The meadow has two people and many happy animals. It may be representative of Adam and Even in the Garden of Eden. In the middle panel there is the same bright green meadow. This meadow has a lot of happy animals and happy people. They are a few large structures but all of the figures in the picture seem to be getting along very well. In the panel on the far right seems to be the same meadow but it is dark and scary looking. The people in the picture look dead and miserable and there are barely any animals at all. In the picture are many horrifying figures and destroyed buildings in the background.
Chaucer would like this picture very much. The Pardoner would like the panel all the way to the left for its religious aspect. He would tell the pardoner that he strongly believes in its message and that it represents the past, present and future of our society. The pardoner would say that all the people in the right panel can easily be forgiven if they pay the right amount of money. Then, Chaucer would point out the pig in a nun’s habit at the bottom right-hand corner of the right panel and explain how that is an accurate depiction of the church and religion in general.
Danielle MacDermott
December 17, 2011
Period C
AP English: Chaucer and Beowulf Assignment
B1: What is a caesura? Find an example of a caesura the text and defend your selection. (paragraph)
Caesura is a grammatical pause or break in a line poetry usually near the middle of the line. It is usually dictated by sense or natural rhythm instead of metrics. An example of this is the colon in the middle of this phrase:
Since erst he lay
friendless, a foundling, fate repaid him:
for he waxed under welkin, in wealth he throve,
This is a caesura because the rhythm of the poem is broken up and due to the grammatical pause occurring in the middle of the line.
B2: What is kenning? Find 3 examples of kenning and defend your selections. (paragraph)
Kenning is a figurative (most often a compound expression) used in place of a noun or name, especially in Old English and also Old Norse Poetry. A kenning in Beowulf is mainly characterized by two united with a hyphen. Three examples of this would be “spear-armed”, “people-kings”, and “evil-spirits”.
B3: Beowulf is indicative of Old English and is infused with a curious blend of the traditions and values of Anglo-Saxon culture and the rise of Christianity. Do a bit of research regarding the Anglo-Saxons. Quote and discuss passages from the text that represent this unique dynamic. Use MLA format to cite your sources.
In Beowulf, the beliefs and ways of life are seen throughout. Anglo-Saxons were Germanic people who lived in Britain during the 5th and 11th centuries. Their language was called Old English. Anglo-Saxons valued nature, warriors, loyalty, the tribe, and their leaders. Most considered the Anglo-Saxons, pagans, because most of their holidays were centered around the Earth and nature. Christianity also influenced the Anglo-Saxons and changed some of their beliefs.
Works Cited: “Anglo-Saxons Values in Beowulf” writework., December, 2006. Web. 17 Dec. 2011
An example is:
“No ship have I known so nobly dight
with weapons of war and weeds of battle,”
This shows their value in war and how highly and much a part of their daily life.
*ONLY BEOWULF PART*
B1: A caesura is a break, usually in the middle of a verse and it is marked by a double vertical line (‖). It is an interruption in the flow of a verse.
There are several examples of caesura throughout the reading, one that stands out to me is “no hero ‘neath heaven, -- who harbored that freight!” (page 6, line 27). I feel this is a strong example because the lines before the pause run very smoothly, and as it is read it is as if the speaker is reflecting on the words he just said. A caesura draws attention and adds emphasis to the point made after it, the author means to add emphasis to the fact that no man could say that he harbored the freight that this strong man has. Unlike many of the commas and semicolons used throughout the reading none of them seem to have such a strong pause as this one does, when reading this small snippet of Beowulf it shines a light on the dramatic reading that the caesuras add to the story.
B2: A kenning is a figurative, usually compound expression used in place of a name or noun, especially in Old English and Old Norse poetry.
While reading through Beowulf, I found several examples of kenning; mead-bench, meaning throne of the King, whale-path, meaning ocean, and swan-road, which also means the sea. These are all fantastic examples of kenning because it represents the lack of nouns that people had knowledge of back in the days of Old English. In instances such as whale-path it shows that when things lacked names the most literal terms were put together and used. Whale-path is the best example because it is very literal, the path that whales traveled through before it could be called ocean or sea.
B3: The Anglo-Saxons are known to have taken much pride in their warriors, warriors were very honorable and some of their culture and traditions can be spotted within the lines of Beowulf. Battles of the Anglo-Saxons can be very violent and very bloody; this is seen in line 7 page 9 of Beowulf “faring homeward laden with slaughter, his lair to seek.” The 9 English values, the Anglo-Saxon moral consists of these values; Courage and selflessness, Truth, Honor, Fidelity, Discipline and duty, Hospitality, Industriousness, Self-reliance, and Perseverance. Fidelity to their King is shown throughout Beowulf, “Yon battle-king, said he, far o’er the swan-road he fain would seek, the noble monarch who needed men!” The warriors would travel the sea to fight for their King, demonstrating more than just fidelity of all the values the Anglo-Saxons held dear. Anglo-Saxons were very involved in the ocean, they traveled upon it and it is heavily influential in their lifestyle. The mentions of whale-paths and swan-paths show that there is much travel of the sea, as it is mentioned several times.
Source: England and English History. Ed. Gareth Pullen. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Dec. 2011. .
Christina Domaldo
B1) A caesura is defined as a pause in the middle of a sentence or line to create some sort of dramatic effect.
Forth he fared at the fated moment,
sturdy Scyld to the shelter of God.
Then they bore him over to ocean's billow,
loving clansmen, as late he charged them,
while wielded words the winsome Scyld,
the leader beloved who long had ruled....
In the roadstead rocked a ring-dight vessel,
ice-flecked, outbound, atheling's barge:
In the excerpt taken from Beowulf the highlighted section shows an example of caesura. Caesura is defined as a pause in the middle of a sentence, it can be created many different ways, and such as with a … When one reads this excerpt aloud they will hear a pause in the voice where the caesura is placed. A caesura causes a dramatic effect, allowing the reader to feel what is going on in the excerpt.
B2) Kenning is a conventional poetic phrase used for or in addition to the usual name of a person or thing. Kenning is used in poetry to describe everyday words; it makes the word sound more poetic. Such as rather than just saying “boat” one could say “wave rider”.
“who house by the whale-path, heard his mandate” Whale path means the ocean.
“Sky path” Sky path means the sun.
“Moons of the forehead” Moons of the forehead means eyes.
B3) B3) . Since erst he lay
friendless, a foundling, fate repaid him:
for he waxed under welkin, in wealth he throve,
till before him the folk, both far and near,
who house by the whale-path, heard his mandate,
gave him gifts: a good king he!
This passage from Beowulf is discussing a man, who is now “friendless”. The passage states “fate repaid him”, meaning that he did something to deserve to loose all his friends. “In wealth he throve”, he desired money and greed, which ended up leaving him all alone. The man that is the topic of the passage has a “house by the whale-path”, meaning he lives by the ocean. “A good kind he”, is implying that this man is a king or a dictator of some sort. This passage is a great example of Anglo Saxon in “Beowulf”.
(Kefor, 2011)
Christina Domaldo continued
CA) Prioress
The Prioress is a young woman who is also a nun, she is described very pleasantly. She is portrayed as “modest and coy” and goes by the name Madame Eglantine. She could speak French fluently, but was not very fashionable when it came to the French styles. “At table her manners were well taught”, she is a very graceful woman who appears to be of a higher class. She loves her dogs, which shows her compassion for animals and what a kind person she really is. “Her eyes were grey as glass”, this could be saying that there may be some underlying sadness that she does not express all the time. Chaucer uses great detail to describe Madame Eglantine, the Prioress in “The Canterbury Tales”.
Physician
The physician is “a doctor of medicine”, who has cared for and saved many patients. He was a very smart man who “knew the cause of every sickness”. He was very good at what he did, and many people had a “friendship” with him. He had a very “modest diet”, and studied very little of the bible. Although he was not a religious man, he was a very kind man. He made very good money from his work, “he loved his gold exceeding all”; some may say he was a greedy man. In “The Canterbury Tales”, Chaucer uses eloquent language to describe the physician.
The Wife of Bath
The Wife of Bath, “who was somewhat deaf” is described in many different ways. She “had a skillful hand” at making clothes, but did not enjoy helping those around her. “So angry was she”, if someone had asked her for help. She wore very large head dresses, “they weighed about ten pounds”; which show she was very concerned with her appearance. She had been married five times; this was “not counting other company in youth”. She was a large woman in appearance and she was “gap-toothed”. “The remedies of love she knew” although she was not a very wealthy women. Chaucer depicts The Wife of Bath throughout “The Canterbury Tales” as not a very enjoyable woman.
CB) There are three men who rap in this video. One of the men who is white is wearing a red Doctor Pepper shirt, jeans and sunglasses. Another man who is in the video is African American, he; he is wearing a striped shirt, brown pants and a white baseball cap. The third man in the video is wearing a black shirt that says Japanese club 2005 on it, brown pants and a white hat.
Christina Domaldo continued again
CD) During the recording it is very difficult to understand what the narrator was saying. He has a very strong accent that makes him sound as if he is not even speaking the English language. He uses emphasis when he pronounces the letter s, which makes some words easier to understand than others.
CE) Shifting from a gentle man to a deviant man in “The Canterbury Tales”, Chaucer uses painful irony to describe the pardoner’s personality throughout the tale.
Throughout “The Pardoner’s Tale” death is a common topic of discussion, “And we three will go slay this traitor death”. The Pardoner’s persona is described much differently. He is described as having very much grace, “Was no such pardoner of equal grace”. Also he charmed the ladies, “Of which he said, it was Our True Lady's veil”. “The Pardoner’s Tale” depicts a very different man than is seen is the persona, it is ironic how different the two really are. Continuously through the story Chaucer has an indifferent tone, it is clear at some point that he is trying to give off a grim impression; but at other parts he is going for a more delighted tone. Chaucer appears to have a strong attitude about religion; he continuously talks about the bible and God. Chaucer always uses great detail when he is describing a character or a mood; it makes the reader feel as if they know this person and can feel what is going on in the plot.
Chaucer balances the difference between the two tales with irony, a very skillful tool. He continually contrasts the two by using two different moods and tones between the two excerpts. As shown through the irony the reader is able to see different sides of the Pardoner, one being a side of grace and the other side not as enjoyable. Chaucer did a magnificent job in contrasting the two; the irony he used is admirable.
Part G) 1. There are three different panels in the painting, all of which are different scenes. In the panel to the right there are two males and a female, the male in the middle looks like Jesus and the naked male and female appear to be Adam and Eve. There are animals in the background, but they are the only humans in the picture. The three humans are standing next to a fruit tree, just like the one in the story of Adam and Eve. In the middle panel there are several people and animals. I think this scene is depicting Heaven, all of the people look as if they are enjoying themselves, but the actions that appear to be taking place are unrealistic; therefore it could take place in Heaven. The panel all the way to the right is Hell, as all the people who in the scene look to be miserable or in pain. The colors in the scene are very dark and grim, as one would imagine Hell to be.
2. CHAUCER: What do you think about the scene that is painted?
PARDONER: I believe it depicts Hell, as in the place you go when you disobey God.
CHAUSER: I agree, it looks as if it is a very dark place.
PARDONER: All of the people in the scene appear to be in pain, unlike the people in the scene in the middle who look as if they are enjoying themselves.
CHAUCER: That if very true, the scene in the middle looks like a joyous place, such as Heaven.
PARDONER: They are contrasts of one another, that is why they are put next to each other.
Beowulf
B1.) A caesura is a rhetorical pause or break in the flow of a verse, usually in the middle of the verse. An example from Beowulf:
“Be thou in haste, and bid them hither,
clan of kinsmen, to come before me;
and add this word, -- they are welcome guests
to folk of the Danes."
The caesura in this passage comes in the third line, between the words “word” and “they.” In reading “word” in this passage, the reader would pause, and then continue reading the rest of the passage. The pause is indicated by the double dash “--” signaling the reader to pause. Caesura serve to make the reader pause in their reading, usually creating some sort of emphasis on what is being said.
B2.) Kenning is the use of a compound word (usually hyphenated) that metaphorically represents another more concrete and singular word. It was used most prominently in Old English and Old Norse poetry. Examples from Beowulf:
“sleep by the sword” to mean “death”
“bone-frame” to mean “skeleton”
“sword-gore-stained” to mean “blood-stained”
Kenning is used frequently throughout Beowulf. Saying that a man has gone to “sleep by the sword,” metaphorically means that the man has been killed in battle. Going to sleep is used as an understatement for death. Talking about a “bone-frame” being crushed, is in actuality discussing a skeleton which is essentially a human frame of bones. To say that a man’s clothing is blood-stained, the term “sword-gore-stained” is used. Blood is essentially gore from a sword fight. The use of kenning is evidence of the rich Old English that was used in creating the tale of Beowulf.
B3.) Evidence of Anglo-Saxon culture and the rise of Christianity can be found throughout Beowulf. There are many biblical references throughout the text that display the connections with the beliefs of that time period. Some biblical excerpts include:
“Grendel this monster grim was called,
march-riever mighty, in moorland living,
in fen and fastness; fief of the giants
the hapless wight a while had kept
since the Creator his exile doomed.
On kin of Cain was the killing avenged
by sovran God for slaughtered Abel.”
Here, Grendel is being described as a descendant of Cain, who in Christianisty is known as a “brother-slayer.” He is associated with evil and hell. This passage serves to symbolize the evil of Grendel by naming him a “kin of Cain.”
“But the man remembered his mighty power,
the glorious gift that God had sent him,
in his Maker's mercy put his trust
for comfort and help: so he conquered the foe.”
This excerpt discusses how Beowulf recognizes that his power comes from God and is not of his own nature. He also goes to God for “comfort and help.” With the “gift” and “help” from God, Beowulf is able to conquer the foe.
Sharma, Shalini. "Beowulf - The Story of Cain." Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems. Web. 09 Dec. 2011. .
"Beowulf - Christian & Pagan Influences." Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems. Web. 09 Dec. 2011. .
Gummere (translator), Francis B. "Beowulf." University of Virginia Library. Harvard Classics, Mar. 1998. Web. 09 Dec. 2011. .
The Canterbury Tales
CA.) Chaucer uses both direct and indirect characterization to establish the monk in The Canterbury Tales. The monk is directly characterized as “a manly man” whose “head was bald.” He is also described as having “bulging eyes” and being “fat.” Indirectly, when Chaucer states that the monk’ sleeves “were made with fur at the hand,” implying that he has some sort of wealth. The fatness of the monk reiterates this point, since food was more scarce during this time period. The monk is much more modernized than others of that time, “and followed new-world manners.” Overall, the monk is characterized as an upper-class, bald manly-man, with modernistic values.
The physician is characterized mostly by Chaucer in an indirect manner. His physical appearance is not well described. However, it is said that “In all this world there was none like him to speak of medicine and surgery.” This explains his success in what he does, and also that the public opinion of him is a positive one. It is evident that the physician is of the upper-class through the description of his clothes “lined with taffeta and with sendal.” His diet is described as “modest,” indirectly stating that he is one of the more skinny characters. Overall, the physician is characterized as an upper-class, skinny man, who is very good at his job of healing people through his knowledge of astronomy.
The Miller is characterized mostly by Chaucer in a direct manner. His physical appearance is very vividly described. It is said that the miller “was a strong fellow” who was “stoutly built, broad and heavy.” He is a wrestling champion who can lift a door from its hinges. He has a wart on his nose and a red beard. He i described as “a jester” who “knew some poetry.” It is also noted that he is a sinner who would “steal corn” even though he had a “thumb of gold.” Overall, the miller is characterized as an upper class, broad, red-haired man, who is funny and engages in thievery.
CB.) One MC is wearing a red “Dr. Pepper” shirt and sunglasses. The second MC is wearing a black shirt with white lettering. He also has on a white and gray fishing hat. The third MC is wearing a brown striped button-up shirt with a brown baseball cap.
CD.) The narrator has a very heavy Middle English accent. It is nearly impossible to understand what he is trying to say without following along in the passage. His pronunciation of words we still use today such as “eye” and “pilgrimages” are extremely different than how we know them to be pronounced. Some phrases such as “And specially from every shires ende” sound almost exactly as how the do today. Overall, the accent, pronunciation, and emphasis on certain words make them sound more like modern words than they look, enabling a slightly better understanding of the passage as a whole.
CE.) Through the use of a mocking tone in the Pardoner’s Tale, Chaucer utilizes painful irony within both the tale of the pardoner and the pardoner’s tale, in order to exemplify his negative attitude toward religion and morality.
In the tale of the pardoner, Chaucer uses irony to characterize the pardoner and display his views on the morality of the religious society. The pardoner claims he will pardon anyone who is willing to offer him “more gold and sliver.” He is accepting bribes from those who want to be relieved of their sins. He says to the others, “Into Heaven’s bliss you’ll go, each one. For I’ll absolve you, by my special power, you that make offering.” In religion, a pardoner is supposed to only pardon those he truly and morally believes should be relieved of their sins. Taking bribes to assure one’s ascension into heaven is completely immoral and at the same time ironic. Chaucer uses this character to display his view that the morality of religion is corrupt. This is further induced in the tale that the pardoner tells.
The pardoner’s tale is ironic in and of itself. The three greedy men all want the treasure for themselves. The two men that stay with the treasure plan “to slay the third.” At the same time, the man who went into the village decided “that he should poison buy, with which he might kill both his fellows.” In the end, all three of the men die, ironically. This tale that the pardoner tells enhances Chaucer’s opinion of the morality of society. These three men were willing to consciously commit murder in order to obtain things of monetary value. Chaucer criticizes how people in society will commit the ultimate sin for treasure, knowing that with that treasure they will be able to have their sins pardoned. The overall juxtaposition of the pardoner’s personality and of the tale he tells ultimately serves to exemplify Chaucer’s critique of the immoral ways of humans and religion.
CG.) The first panel depicts the scene of how things were in the creation of life. The scene consists of Adam and Eve, Jesus Christ, and many animals in a beautiful and naturalistic field. This shows how things were in the beginning. The second panel depicts the scene of how things are in modern society. There is a more abundant population of people and buildings, as was prevalent in the culture of that time. The third panel depicts the artist’s prediction of the future. He sees the future becoming a dark and dreary place where death and war are most common. Here, only few are happy.
Chaucer: Ah, how beautiful it was in the time of Adam and Eve!
Pardoner: Yes, but imagine how boring life would be had things not progressed!
Chaucer: This is true, but modern society is taking a turn for the worse.
Pardoner: I beg to differ!
Chaucer: Well of course you enjoy the corruptness of today, for you prosper from it!
Pardoner: You mock me now, but some day i will be the riches man alive!
Chaucer: Maybe, and our world will become such an immoral place of death and murder!
Pardoner: This painting is an inaccurate depiction of the future.
Chaucer: I think it is extremely accurate and it is people like you who are going to lead us there.
Pardoner: Well at least if it comes to that I’ll be sitting at the top with all of my treasures.
Chaucer: I don’t believe even the world’s greatest pardoner could pardon such sins as you’ve committed. Do you honestly believe you will be going to heaven?
Pardoner: ...........
Kristen Tenglin
December 15, 2011
AP English D Period
Beowulf and Chaucer
BEOWULF
B1. What is a caesura? Find an example of a caesura from the text and defend your selection (paragraph).
Caesura is a strong pause within a line of poetry that is incorporated in order to establish a musical interest by moving the pauses so they occur within the lines instead of at the end of each line. Caesura is beneficial in order to avoid dull transitions between lines. Between the following sentences in Beowulf, “In the roadstead rocked a ring-dight vessel, ice-flecked, outbound, atheling's barge: there laid they down their darling lord on the breast of the boat, the breaker-of-rings, by the mast the mighty one. Many a treasure fetched from far was freighted with him”, there is a pause that occurs mid-line. This example of caesura serves to pause the text without placing the break in between the two lines.
B2. What is kenning? Find 3 examples of kenning and defend your selections (paragraph).
A kenning is the situation of two words together in order to generate a condensed form of metaphor. A kenning was originally utilized in Anglo-Saxon and Norse poetry. In the line, “there laid they down their darling lord on the breast of the boat, the breaker-of-rings, by the mast the mighty one,” the king is referred to as the “breaker-of-rings”. People are referred to as “land-dwellers” to allude to the fact that they remain on land instead of venturing off to sea. The “slayer-of souls” in the following passage, “whiles they vowed in their heathen fanes altar-offerings, asked with words, that the slayer-of-souls would succor give them for the pain of their people” refers to the Devil due to the Anglo-Saxon and Christian themes present throughout the work. The Devil is characterized as the “slayer-of-souls” due to its ability to tempt the individuals with the desires of their souls, and “Hell” is mentioned in the following lines of the text.
B3. Beowulf is indicative of Old English and is infused with a curious blend of the traditions and values of Anglo-Saxon culture and the rise of Christianity. Do a bit of research regarding the Anglo-Saxons. Quote and discuss passages from the text that represent this unique dynamic. Use MLA format to cite your sources.
Anglo-Saxon England, a period in history from AD 449 to AD 1066, was marked by war and rivalry. Values within the Anglo-Saxon society include courage, selflessness, truth, honor, fidelity, bravery, discipline, duty, and industriousness. This is evident in the work as battle is described and bravery is alluded too when blood is characterized as “battle-sweat”. The “Wise-and-Brave” men who fought in battle are described as dignified and prestigious. The values of valiancy during the Anglo-Saxon period are further portrayed in Beowulf as the “work of war” is illustrated along with the falling of “foes” and vengeance.
However, the period in which Beowulf was written was marked by the rise of Christianity in England. Eternal life after death is alluded to in the work through the lines which state, “Heaven be thanked, Lord Eternal, for life extended that I on this head all hewn and bloody, after long evil, with eyes may gaze.” The theme of fate and that which “fate allows” pervade Beowulf and further the belief in heaven and eternal life which is the foundation of the Christian religion. The presence of God and the belief in life after death are all-encompassing throughout the work which characterize the values and beliefs of Christians during the time period.
Works Cited
Kefor, Todd. "Information about Anglo-Saxons." Norton, 15 December 2011.
Pullen, Gareth. England and English History. 2010. 15 December 2011 .
CA: Read The Prologue and the Introduction in their entirety. Chaucer will introduce you to each of his pilgrims; choose 3 of them. Discuss how Chaucer characterizes them: their class, appearance, character, etc. (3 paragraphs).
In the prologue, Chaucer begins by describing the Knight. “Ful worthy” and marked by “trouthe and honour, freedom and curteisie”, the Knight if the symbol of prestige. He is described as “worthy” and “wise”, attending each battle and defeating the foes. Chaucer portrays the knight in a way that the reader may assume that he is upper class due to his “sovereyn prys”, or outstanding reputation, in and out of battle. To further his illustration of the prestige of the Knight, Chaucer characterizes him as a “bord bigonne”, portraying that he sat above the rest and in a place of honor. However, despite his presence in battle which led to victory on every front, the Knight was as “meeke” as a young maiden and did not have the capacity for “vileynye” or evil.
The Yeman, or freeborn slave, was fully prepared for the pilgrimage, ornamented with weaponry. The Yemen did not have any “servantz” of his own because he preferred to “ride” alone. Equipped for the journey ahead, the Yeman was characterized as having a “sheef of pecok” arrows and a sword which were both ornately decorated and colorful. Painting an image of the Yeman in the mind of reader, Chaucer describes him as having a well-manicured head of hair and “a broun visage”, or face. This description serves to characterize the Yeman as well-off, maybe not so much as the Knight, but fully prepared for the trip which he is about to embark on.
Contrasting from the others is Chaucer’s characterization of the “Sergeant of the Lawe.” Wise and prudent, the lawyer is at the height of his profession, often having visited “the Parvys”, or the porch of St. Paul’s Cathedral. The lawyer was full of “excellence” and knowledge due to his “greet reverence” and high standing among the justices and others. Establishing his character, Chaucer reiterates his “heigh renoun”, or abundant fame, that was associated with his standing in the King’s court. His attire also hints at his social standing because it is emphasized that his coat was encircled with a belt “of silk”, the typical dress of an affluent man.
CB: Click here to check out a dope rap version of The Prologue. Describe the attire of the MC's to verify your visit.
The male MC’s were dressed in average attire. One man was wearing a red Dr. Pepper shirt, blue jeans, and dark sunglasses. Another of the MC’s was dressed in a striped brown shirt, black jeans, and a white baseball hat. The final MC was sporting a black shirt with white lettering which read “Maryknoll High School Japanese Club 2005”, brown cargo pants, and a white and blue plaid sun hat.
CD: Describe the narrator's voice and your impressions regarding how pronunciation, accent and emphasis help you decode the passage.
In this audio recording of the Prologue, the narrator’s voice and pronunciation are effective in providing the listener with a taste of what The Canterbury Tales would have sounded like in Middle English during the period in which it was written. If one were not to have the words of the Prologue in front of them and were not listening closely to the recording, they make think that the narrator was speaking in another language. This amplifies the difference in pronunciation and wording of Middle and Modern English. Words such as “shoures” and “roote” are clearly pronounced in a way that is unlike Modern English. His accent also serves to highlight the vast differences, but it adds to the original meaning behind the words that goes beyond the words alone. The narrator places a greater emphasis on vowels throughout the reading of the Prologue as well, a quality that is not necessarily present in today’s English language.
CA: Read The Prologue and the Introduction in their entirety. Chaucer will introduce you to each of his pilgrims; choose 3 of them. Discuss how Chaucer characterizes them: their class, appearance, character, etc. (3 paragraphs).
In the prologue, Chaucer begins by describing the Knight. “Ful worthy” and marked by “trouthe and honour, freedom and curteisie”, the Knight if the symbol of prestige. He is described as “worthy” and “wise”, attending each battle and defeating the foes. Chaucer portrays the knight in a way that the reader may assume that he is upper class due to his “sovereyn prys”, or outstanding reputation, in and out of battle. To further his illustration of the prestige of the Knight, Chaucer characterizes him as a “bord bigonne”, portraying that he sat above the rest and in a place of honor. However, despite his presence in battle which led to victory on every front, the Knight was as “meeke” as a young maiden and did not have the capacity for “vileynye” or evil.
The Yeman, or freeborn slave, was fully prepared for the pilgrimage, ornamented with weaponry. The Yemen did not have any “servantz” of his own because he preferred to “ride” alone. Equipped for the journey ahead, the Yeman was characterized as having a “sheef of pecok” arrows and a sword which were both ornately decorated and colorful. Painting an image of the Yeman in the mind of reader, Chaucer describes him as having a well-manicured head of hair and “a broun visage”, or face. This description serves to characterize the Yeman as well-off, maybe not so much as the Knight, but fully prepared for the trip which he is about to embark on.
Contrasting from the others is Chaucer’s characterization of the “Sergeant of the Lawe.” Wise and prudent, the lawyer is at the height of his profession, often having visited “the Parvys”, or the porch of St. Paul’s Cathedral. The lawyer was full of “excellence” and knowledge due to his “greet reverence” and high standing among the justices and others. Establishing his character, Chaucer reiterates his “heigh renoun”, or abundant fame, that was associated with his standing in the King’s court. His attire also hints at his social standing because it is emphasized that his coat was encircled with a belt “of silk”, the typical dress of an affluent man.
CB: Click here to check out a dope rap version of The Prologue. Describe the attire of the MC's to verify your visit.
The male MC’s were dressed in average attire. One man was wearing a red Dr. Pepper shirt, blue jeans, and dark sunglasses. Another of the MC’s was dressed in a striped brown shirt, black jeans, and a white baseball hat. The final MC was sporting a black shirt with white lettering which read “Maryknoll High School Japanese Club 2005”, brown cargo pants, and a white and blue plaid sun hat.
CD: Describe the narrator's voice and your impressions regarding how pronunciation, accent and emphasis help you decode the passage.
In this audio recording of the Prologue, the narrator’s voice and pronunciation are effective in providing the listener with a taste of what The Canterbury Tales would have sounded like in Middle English during the period in which it was written. If one were not to have the words of the Prologue in front of them and were not listening closely to the recording, they make think that the narrator was speaking in another language. This amplifies the difference in pronunciation and wording of Middle and Modern English. Words such as “shoures” and “roote” are clearly pronounced in a way that is unlike Modern English. His accent also serves to highlight the vast differences, but it adds to the original meaning behind the words that goes beyond the words alone. The narrator places a greater emphasis on vowels throughout the reading of the Prologue as well, a quality that is not necessarily present in today’s English language.
CE: Read his tale (lines 375-682). Write a 3-5 paragraph essay in response to the following prompt: How is the Pardoner's Tale, in relation to the Pardoner's persona and role, painfully ironic? How does this irony conflict or complement the irony within the Tale itself? How might you characterize Chaucer's tone as echoed through his juxtaposition of the Pardoner's story and personality? What might we conclude about Chaucer's attitude toward religion and morality?
The juxtaposition of the Pardoner’s Tale and the characterization of the Pardoner serve to heighten the painful irony that pervades this portion of “The Canterbury Tales”. Due to the Pardoner’s position in society and the contradictory persona that he possesses, Chaucer portrays the irony that can be applied to society as a whole. Chaucer’s elucidates his position through the contrasting statements which are made in the Pardoner’s tale and his own lifestyle.
The contradiction between the Pardoner’s Tale and the Pardoner’s role provide a utterly palpable satire within “The Canterbury Tales”. The Pardoner preaches that greed for money is the root of all evil in the world through his tale of the three “riotoures”. In their quest for the “Deeth” character, the three sinners lead themselves to their eventual demise through poisoning due to their greed and the measures that they take due to their love for worldly possessions, more specifically “gold”. This creates a disturbingly ironic paradox, which is heightened by the persona of the man who relays the message to the other pilgrims. Pardoner’s provide supposed forgiveness of sin to individuals who seek repentance and pay the individual to “pardon” them. However, the Pardoner’s greed for material items is fueled by the money he receives from preaching to others to words of repentance. In comparison, the Pardoner seeks to relieve the fears of the sinful people to receive compensation and the three men in the story desire to relieve the townspeople of their fear of Death to collect the gold that lies under the oak tree.
The author’s condemnation of religious society and their views of morality reverberate through this tale and the way in which it compares to the act of pardoning sins. The characterization of the Pardoner serves to typify religious leaders as a whole and the possible motives that may be behind their actions. Chaucer relays his opinions regarding religion through the Pardoner’s Tale by characterizing sin as inescapable and affecting all people. This message is furthered by alluding to the fact that, although some may seem to be holy, they too are impacted by the same immoral desires to gain material goods and money. These crooked yearnings pervade the tale and illuminate Chaucer’s attitude toward religion and religious morals.
Elucidating his critical views of religion, Chaucer constructs a satire of religious morals in the Pardoner’s Tale. The inescapable desires for money pervade the work and heighten the ironic situation by assuring that even the respected religious leaders, who are present to relieve sins, are burdened by the same drives, and utilize the money that they receive for pardoning sins to fulfill these wishes. The satire that is created serves to make clear that, no matter ones supposed position, everyone is driven by the same instinctive nature.
Part G: Synthesis prompt: Bosch is a Dutch painter who lived and worked shortly after the publication of the Tales. You will be able to zoom in a bit. Examine the triptych and respond to the following questions in paragraph form. 1. What scenes are being depicted in each panel? 2. Create a conversation (RAFT style) between Chaucer and the Pardoner as they discuss the image (particularly the right panel).
Bosch’s triptych illustrates the rise and fall of man throughout the history of the world. In the first panel, God stands in the presence of his first creations, interacting with Adam, Eve, and each animal that he placed on the Earth. At this time, the world is without sin and Satan’s temptation has not tainted the Earth. The second, and largest, panel portrays animals and humans interacting within a society filled with love and acceptance. The bright colors that the painter utilizes further the theme of peace that is present throughout the middle panel. The final panel in Bosch’s work serves to illustrate the utter devastation that consumed the worth as sin took hold of its inhabitants. The skulls are opened to the temptations of sin and the destruction has left the people hopeless. From the first panel to the last, the beginning of time to its desperate end, Bosch depicts the role of man in the progression of history.
R.A.F.T. Assignment
Role: Geoffrey Chaucer and the Pardoner
Audience: Mr. Kefor
Format: Conversation between Chaucer and Bosch
Topic: Bosch’s painting
Chaucer: From Adam and Eve’s first sin, the world has been on a downward spin.
Pardoner: Bosch’s painting relays my message, that greed is the root of all wicked.
Chaucer: The first panel depicts perfection and peace, and the last portrays when humankind will cease.
Pardoner: The desire for money consumes the people. Their sinful nature turns them from the steeple.
Chaucer: The colors change from one panel to the other. Is this part of the message, my brother?
Pardoner: The magnificent colors signify a sinless world. When God is present and greed not unfurled. The dark tones pervade the last, depicting a time over which sin has past.
Chaucer: What causes this sin, which in the last panel has been?
Pardoner: The people desire earthly possessions. Then, they do not come to me for forgiveness.
Chaucer: You collect payment to pardon each trespass, but you keep this money and store it in mass.
Pardoner: I am far holier than they. I am not burdened by greed, I say.
Chaucer: Bones are evident in your sermon and the last panel. Are these the remnants of a great battle?
Pardoner: Yes, the bones are from a sinful war, a war with greed which left many a scar.
Chaucer: Does the third panel depict the present time? Is there any way from out of it we’ll climb?
Pardoner: If they continue to repent, the second panel will characterize the present.
Chaucer: The progress of history is grim. A transformation from peace to devastating sin.
Pardoner: Bosch’s painting depicts a lack of repentance. Therefore, the people must give me payments.
Chaucer: Your position is very clear. Your job depends on sin and its repeal.
Pardoner: The painting portrays a world without me. I do everyone a favor to sustain its beauty.
B1. A caesura is a complete pause in in a line of poetry or in a musical composition. An example of this in Beowulf is “of youthful comrades. It came in his mind” because the period causes a complete pause.
B2. A kenning is a compound expression in Old English and Old Norse poetry with metaphorical meaning. An example of this in Beowulf is “the breaker-of-rings” which is kenning for king of a comitatus who broke of gold from spiral rings and rewarded his followers.
B3. In Beowulf, there is a mix of Christian and Anglo-Saxon views throughout the text. At first it was written by an Anglo-Saxon view point and then over time Christian views have been gradually integrated in. The Anglo-Saxons greatly valued war and violence, while Christians thought highly of God and life beyond earthly existence. At the very beginning of the writing the line “Forth he fared at the fated moment, sturdy Scyld to the shelter of God.” mentions God which is a sign of Christian beliefs. Shortly following this, there is an excellent example of an Anglo-Saxon view. When someone is describing a war ship as, “No ship have I known so nobly dight with weapons of war and weeds of battle, with breastplate and blade” this is an example of an Anglo-Saxon view because they are talking greatly of a war ship.
Work Cited
"BBC - Primary History - Anglo-Saxons - Who Were They?" BBC - Homepage. Web. 15 Dec. 2011. .
"Christian Elements in Beowulf." Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems | Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems | Pace University. Web. 15 Dec. 2011. .
CA:
The Knight
The Knight was a very “noble” man and thought highly of by everyone for doing an excellent job fighting in the war. He “loved chivalry, truth, honour, freedom and all courtesy” which shows that he was a very down to earth man that takes importance of the simple acts of life, and believes everyone should behave appropriately. Not only was he “so strong and brave”, but he was also “very wise”. On the pilgrimage “he was not gaily dressed”, he was wearing “A tunic of simple cloth he possessed/ Discoloured and stained by his habergeon”. The reason for such tattered clothing is because he had just recently returned from his voyage of fighting. The Knight is characterized as a very strong, noble, and courteous man.
The Merchant
The Merchant was a “worthy man” that kept “all his wits well set”. He had a “forked beard” and wore a “motley gown” however, “his boots were fastened neatly and elegantly”. He was a quiet man that “spoke out his opinions very solemnly” and the end Chaucer can’t even recall his name. He was very good with money and trades however, and “was a worthy man withal”.
The Pardoner
The Pardoner had “hair as yellow as wax” and very “shiny eyes”. “He sang so merrily and so loud” in hopes of people giving him money and they did. He carried around relics with him and sold them one day when they went into town and made more money “than the Parson in two months”. There was “no such pardoner of equal grace” because he sold such eloquent items.
CB. One man is wearing dark wash jeans, a black shirt, and a white hat. Another man is wearing light wash jeans, a Dr.Pepper shirt and sunglasses. The third guy is wearing green pants, a striped shirt and a tan hat.
CD. The narrator has an almost Jamaican accent. He puts emphasis on the begging of each line and on certain things that you can tell are important. However, for most of the time I could not understand a word he saying, because of both the old English and his foreign accent.
CE. Contradicting himself throughout the Pardoner’s tale, Chaucer utilizes obvious irony, a critical tone, and juxtaposing characterization in order to tell the Pardoner’s tale.
CE.
Contradicting himself throughout the Pardoner’s tale, Chaucer utilizes obvious irony, a critical tone, and juxtaposing characterization in order to tell the Pardoner’s tale.
There is a lot of irony between what the Pardoner is saying at the beginning of his tale, and his occupation. As a pardoner his job is to forgive people from sins that they have committed, however at the beginning of his tale he goes on a rant about how horrible it is to “gamble” “drink” and “swear”. This is ironic because he is supposed to be forgiving people for these sins, not getting mad about it. The tone used throughout the tale is a very critical tone because he is criticizing the kids for drinking, gambling, and swearing. This tone shifts once the Pardon starts to tell the actual tale.
The tone is the tale told by the Pardon is very educational because he is trying to tell his readers to do the right thing. The kids want to kill Death; however once they become greedy they end up killing each other. The Pardoner is trying to teach his readers that being a bad person will lead you down the wrong path. This tale is also very ironic, in that the children are trying to kill Death, and in the end they all die instead. This tale shows that he is a very religious man that wants everyone to do the right thing by God. At the end however, he is very selfish himself because he tells his listeners that the relics he has are fake but then tries to sell them to them anyway because all he cares about is making money. This entire tale, from start to finish, is full of many different ironies and contradiction, in characterization, tone and even religion.
CG.
The left panel of the artwork depicts God giving the world to Adam and Eve. The middle panel shows many humans taking part in many forbidden activities by God. And the right panel is a portrayal of Hell and what the earth would look like after the sins depicted in the middle panel had been committed.
P: See, this is what happens when we commit sins
C: I don’t believe that!
P: It’s true, we will all be sent to Hell and the Earth will look like that.
C: This is just made up!
P: NO its not, sins are evil!
C: The Church is very hypocritical and this would never happen.
P: That’s a lie!
C: No, plenty of people have committed sins and nothing has happened because of it.
P: It has, just in a different, toned down way.
C: I just don’t see it the same way as you.
P: Fine. But you really should because Hell is a horrible place and you don’t want to end up there.
CE.
Contradicting himself throughout the Pardoner’s tale, Chaucer utilizes obvious irony, a critical tone, and juxtaposing characterization in order to tell the Pardoner’s tale.
There is a lot of irony between what the Pardoner is saying at the beginning of his tale, and his occupation. As a pardoner his job is to forgive people from sins that they have committed, however at the beginning of his tale he goes on a rant about how horrible it is to “gamble” “drink” and “swear”. This is ironic because he is supposed to be forgiving people for these sins, not getting mad about it. The tone used throughout the tale is a very critical tone because he is criticizing the kids for drinking, gambling, and swearing. This tone shifts once the Pardon starts to tell the actual tale.
The tone is the tale told by the Pardon is very educational because he is trying to tell his readers to do the right thing. The kids want to kill Death; however once they become greedy they end up killing each other. The Pardoner is trying to teach his readers that being a bad person will lead you down the wrong path. This tale is also very ironic, in that the children are trying to kill Death, and in the end they all die instead. This tale shows that he is a very religious man that wants everyone to do the right thing by God. At the end however, he is very selfish himself because he tells his listeners that the relics he has are fake but then tries to sell them to them anyway because all he cares about is making money. This entire tale, from start to finish, is full of many different ironies and contradiction, in characterization, tone and even religion.
CG.
The left panel of the artwork depicts God giving the world to Adam and Eve. The middle panel shows many humans taking part in many forbidden activities by God. And the right panel is a portrayal of Hell and what the earth would look like after the sins depicted in the middle panel had been committed.
P: See, this is what happens when we commit sins
C: I don’t believe that!
P: It’s true, we will all be sent to Hell and the Earth will look like that.
C: This is just made up!
P: NO its not, sins are evil!
C: The Church is very hypocritical and this would never happen.
P: That’s a lie!
C: No, plenty of people have committed sins and nothing has happened because of it.
P: It has, just in a different, toned down way.
C: I just don’t see it the same way as you.
P: Fine. But you really should because Hell is a horrible place and you don’t want to end up there.
Emily Boockoff
Beowulf
B1.
“held safe and sound, when, seared with crime,
the fiendish foe his flight essayed,
of life despairing. -- No light thing that,
the flight for safety, -- essay it who will!
Forced of fate, he shall find his way
to the refuge ready for race of man,”
Caesura is a grammatical pause or break in a line of poetry usually in the middle of the line. IT is also usually not dictated by metrics, but by the rhythm of natural speech. The above excerpt exhibits caesura mainly because of the exclamation point in the middle of it. The phrase “the flight for safety, --essay it who will!” shows a break from that line and the next. It appears in the middle of the stanza, as caesura tends to do.
B2.
Kenning is a poetic phrase where a common noun, or usual name of an object, is replaced by a figurative phrase. In Beowulf, a “whale-path” is a kenning for the sea. The phrase says “who house by the whale-path, heard his mandate” which translates to who’s house by the sea, heard his order. This is in reference to everyone, people both far and near, being able to hear the mandate. The “breaker-of-rings” is a kenning for a king of a comitatus. A comitatus is a Germanic friendship where kings ruled also consulting their warriors. In the phrase “on the breast of the boat, the breaker-of-rings” it is describing where they are located. The “weaver-of-peace” is a kenning for a wife. Women were thought to be the “peace makers” and more subdued ones, as the husbands were suppose to be warriors.
B3.
“guard it kept
o'er the man of war, as marched along
heroes in haste, till the hall they saw,”
In the passage it says heroes, which actually means the warriors. In Anglo Saxon culture the heroes were the warriors. They were thought to save the culture and bring prosper.
“Their offspring bold
fares hither to seek the steadfast friend.
And seamen, too, have said me this, --
who carried my gifts to the Geatish court,
thither for thanks, -- he has thirty men's
heft of grasp in the gripe of his hand,
the bold-in-battle.”
The Warriors were expected to have a certain look. They had to look and be incredibly strong, such as Beowulf who “has thirty men’s heft of grasp in the gripe of his hand”.
“Forth he fared at the fated moment,
sturdy Scyld to the shelter of God.”
Christianity was the major, growing religion of the Anglo-Saxons. There are many references through out the text, such as this one, to God, the higher power. This signals the upcoming transition from Paganism to Christianity.
“THEN fashioned for him the folk of Geats
firm on the earth a funeral-pile,
and hung it with helmets and harness of war
and breastplates bright, as the boon he asked;”
Despite this, there are still many references to the beliefs of Pagans. In a burial ceremony, they were buried with items for their next life. This was a ritual of paganism. The passage above describe the death of Beowulf and what he was buried with.
Katsuya-Corbet, Robin. "Beowulf." Http://etext.virginia.edu. University of Virginia Library, 1998. Web. 18 Dec. 2011. .
"Primary History." BBC. British Broadcasting Corporation. Web. 18 Dec. 2011. .
Emily Boockoff
Chaucer1
CA.
One of the characters introduced by Chaucer is The Monk. The Monk is of a higher class has described by his “fine grey fur” and “horse of great estate”. He is very wealthy and well looked upon. He was a “manly man” with a bald head and a smooth face. He was quite fat, and therefore usually a bit flushed in the face. He was a good man though and worked hard. Chaucer seemed to like him as he said “I said his opinion was good”.
Another character introduced is The Wife of Bath. She was very respected and charitable. She was of a higher class than most with head-dresses “of finest weave” and stocking that were “the finest scarlet red”. She made clothes, and was one of the best one could find. She had a bold but fair face, which took a red hue. She was also plump and gap-toothed. She knew the “art” of love, as she had five husbands not even counting the guys that she just dated as a young girl. She has also traveled the world.
A third character introduced is The Merchant. He was a “worthy man” and “kept all his wits well set”. He was in debt, but nobody could ever tell and because of this his trades were still managed well has he could still bargain and borrow. He wore a “motley gown” and a “Flemish beaver hat” with neatly fastened boots. Which also hints at his wealth, or lack thereof. Although Chaucer described him as such a worthy man, he was not memorable has his name could not be remembered.
CB.
One MC is wearing a grey, white and blue patterned hat with a black shirt with white lettering that says “Maryknoll High School Japanese Club 2005” and black pants. The second is wearing a stripped shirt that has different shades of brown with a brown undershirt, a white hat and dark wash jeans. The third one is wearing a pair of sunglasses with a red Dr. Pepper shirt and medium wash jeans.
CD.
The narrators voice is clearly foreign, it sort of sounds German. It is sort of hard for me, personally, to understand him. The poem is difficult to understand in the language as it is, never mind adding a foreign accent. Although, you can still sometimes tell what words have an emphasis or accent on them, which is helpful. You can also tell when there are pauses and such in the introduction, or when it is just a continuous flow.
Emily Boockoff
Chaucer2
CE.
In The Pardoner’s Tale, Geoffrey Chaucer utilizes irony in relation to the Pardoner which complements the Tale itself, a disapproving tone and a uncorrupted attitude toward religion and mortality in order to exemplify the corrupt church and government during the Old English era.
The Pardoner’s Tale is incredibly ironic because it juxtaposes the Pardoner’s personality. Although, this irony still compliments the tale itself, demonstrating the true corruption of the Old English Church and Government. The Pardoner requests money and items in order for one to be pardoned; “The must he preach...to gain some silver preferably, from the crowd”. Ironically, the tale of the Pardoner was three men searching in order to “slay this traitor Death” that killed their friend. “Death” killed them when money was found and fought over by the three. These three men were killed because of their greed, and this is the story the Pardoner, one of the most greedy people, chooses to tell. In his explanation of the tale, the Pardoner says his pardons will cure as long as one brings him gold, silver, “brooches, spoons or rings”, he does not care what. The members of the Church did not practice what they preached, and most did not even seem to notice the irony in this because they were consumed by greed.
A very disapproving tone is used by Chaucer in the juxtaposition of the Pardoner’s story and personality. It is clear Chaucer is not found of the Pardoner as most references to him are not positive. Chaucer, at first says how strong the Pardoner’s voice is, “no horn ever sounded half so strong”. His tone soon changes when describing the Pardoner’s voice as sounding “like a goat”. At the end of the Pardoner’s tale, Chaucer adds the words said between the Host, the Pardoner and the Knight which are also negative towards the Pardoner. The tone of the Host as written by Chaucer is outraged by what the Pardoner has said. The host exclaims that the Pardoner would have him “kissing [his] old breeches” and swearing “they were the relics of a Saint”. The tone is denouncing the Pardoner as a liar who’s greed has consumed him.
Chaucer’s has an honorable opinion when it comes to religion and mortality. Many in the Old English era had a corrupt view of the Church and Government. Chaucer’s attitude towards the corrupt Pardoner was negative describing him as having a “goat like” voice and his constant greed for “gold and “silver”. Chaucer’s attitude seemed to go with the moral of The Pardoner’s Tale, more so. Death will kill everybody and you cannot “slay Death” because eventually, it will come for you. Also, it seems that Chaucer has a negative attitude towards greed, as he very effectively juxtaposed the Pardoner’s tale and the Pardoner’s personality.
The government in the Old English era was tied to the Church, making both equally corrupt. The Pardoner only proves this point more with his greedy, disgusting personality. He does not practice what he preaches, as one in that power should.
Emily Boockoff
Chaucer3
G.
The panel on the left is describing the beginning of civilization. Everything is newly born and perfect. God is in the middle of two people, Adam and Eve. It looks like he just brought Eve down to start the human population. With this though, he is also presenting sin to the World and Adam. In the middle panel, the human population has grown substantially. It almost looks as thought it is over populated in this world. Some of the people are holding things that looks to be weapons and some people just seem to be fighting. This would mean that this is after Eve ate the apple, and set havoc on the world. The last panel is a complete juxtaposition of the first. The world has been destroyed because of the greed of the human population. They caused terror and destruction for themselves. There are animals that seem to be personified, as most of the humans are dead or they are grieving over the loss of their loved ones.
Role of the Writer: against the government/church vs. for the government/church
Audience: general audience in England in persuasion of opinion
Format: a conversation
Topic: discussion of Bosch’s painting
Chaucer: This triptych clearly represents the corruption of religion and the government from the beginning. It is a good symbol of today’s government.
The Pardoner: You are completely wrong, as you can tell, the human population would not have been if it were not for God.
Chaucer: Yes of course, but look at this corrupt humans. They are fighting over minuscule things such as land or money possible. They are taking over animals as if they mean nothing.
The Pardoner: That does not make humans corrupt. It all goes back to Adam and Eve, it is only their fault.
Chaucer: So what you mean to say is humans corruption, present day, goes back to Adam and Eve?
The Pardoner: Yes, luckily they have people like us. We grant them freedom from any sin ever committed.
Chaucer: Yes, with a small fee.
The Pardoner: That is the Lord’s wish.
Chaucer: I disagree, the total corruption seen at the end of this painting is clearly because of the foolishness of some human beings. They feel as though they can take advantage of the lower powers just because they are “better”.
The Pardoner: Not better, just more wise.
Chaucer: That is not true what so ever, as you can see at the end, the animals began to take over. The humans, in the middle, treated them as if they were the lower powers.
The Pardoner: They are not taking over. They are simply helping.
Chaucer: The destruction of society is based highly on how the Church and government run themselves.
The Pardoner: They run themselves very well, we are always there to help.
Chaucer: So, you can easily say, at the end of this painting, the society is being run effectively?
The Pardoner: Yes, it is just another era and if they decide to get their sins forgiven, all will be forgotten.
Alex Gallant
Period C
B1) A caesura is a break between words or a pause near the middle of the line.
“Thus ruled unrighteous and raged his fill
one against all; until empty stood
that lordly building, and long it bode so.”
This selection is a good example of a caesura because there is first a grammatical pause in the middle of the last two lines (all; until) and (building, and). Also, it has a natural sense of rhythm where there should be a pause or break in the middle of the line. This indicates
B2) Kenning is a compound expression in Old English and Old Norse poetry with metaphorical meaning. One example of a kenning in Beowulf is “the breaker-of-rings”. This is a kenning for a king-like figure; he breaks off gold from spiral rings and rewards his followers. Another example of a kenning would be “whale-path”. This is a kenning for simply the ocean because whales swim in the ocean. A third example of a kenning is “the sea-wood”. This is a kenning for a ship, since a ship back then was made of wood and sails on the sea.
B3) Elements of the Beowulf story date back to the period before migration of the Anglo-Saxons. The poem shows the qualities most admired by the Anglo-Saxons. “Beyond the whale-road”(10) refers to the compound words “whale-road”,clearly used to mean the sea, is the one of the most famous examples of the Anglo-Saxon literary form; a kenning. Also, the treatment of weapons and how Beowulf fought relates much to the Anglo-Saxons. “His mighty, hand-forged, fine-webbed mail would soon meet with the menace underwater. It would keep the bone-cage of his body safe...”(1444-1446), this explains the history of the making of the weapons and it's performance. Weaponry was a key essential to Beowulf and the Anglo-Saxons.
CA) The first pilgrim I chose is The Knight. The Knight seems to be admired by The Host and the narrator. The Knight has qualities like “chivalrie”, fidelity, “honour”, and generosity. Also, Chaucer describes his manner as meek and gentle. The Knight wears a tunic made of coarse cloth and a rust-stained coat.
The second pilgrim I chose is The Narrator. The Narrator is called Chaucer, and he presents himself as sociable and naïve, even though the Host accuses him of being quiet and sullen. The Narrator tells his impressions of the characters from memory and shows his own prejudices because he chooses to tell what he likes and doesn't like about the other pilgrims. He presents a general impression on the reader of how the other pilgrims are like.
Finally, the third pilgrim is The Wife of Bath. She is a seamstress and has been a wife of many. She has been married five times and has had many other affairs when she was younger. She loves dressing in rich clothes and loves to talk. Her face is covered in heavy cloth, she wears extravagant colors, brand new shoes, and also has a gap between her teeth. Through her experiences with many husbands, she has learned how to provide for herself and is very smart.
CB) One of them is wearing a Dr. Pepper's shirt with sunglasses, another is wearing a high school Japanese club shirt from 2005 (…), and another is wearing a really ugly brown and tan shirt with vertical stripes and a hat.
Alex Gallant
Period C
(2nd part)
CD) The narrator's voice is very crisp, and his pronunciation of certain words in each line help understand the words a little better. Also, his accent seems to go well with Middle English and all of the words sound right when he says them. The emphasis he puts on certain parts of lines help me to understand the story and follow it a little better.
CE) The Pardoner's Tale is very ironic to The Pardoner himself because he constantly talks about how greed is one of the worst sins and nothing good comes out of it, yet he ask for pardons that he actually keeps for himself. Not only this, but he tells the pilgrims that he keeps all the money for himself, but then asks for pardons later on in his tale. He presents himself as a hypocrite because all of the characteristics of his story that he explains are all characteristics of himself as well.
This irony complements the tale because his persona and role should be the complete opposite of what is in the story he tells, but he is actually much like the persona of the story. Its ironic that someone who is very moralistic and preaches the Commandments to be secretly doing horrible things that go against who he perceives himself to be. Also, telling a moralistic story of how disastrous greed can be is even more ironic because he himself is very greedy and takes pardons for himself.
I would characterize Chaucer's tone as skeptic and ironic throughout The Pardoner's Tale and personality because The Pardoner turns out to be someone who is the complete opposite of who he should be. Throughout the tale, Chaucer leads to reader on to think there is something not right about The Pardoner, but doesn't let the reader know until after The Pardoner's Tale. Before the truth about The Pardoner's real personality is revealed from Chaucer, he leaves the reader to predict who The Pardoner is and what he does.
I can conclude that Chaucer is skeptic towards religion and morality because the story The Pardoner tells is completely ironic to his personality, but yet very realistic. Chaucer may not trust something or someone that preaches such strong beliefs and asks for followers and money. It could easily be used for own personal greed, but people wouldn't think such irony could be so realistic.
Part G) The left panel is God with Adam and Eve. The center panel is a panorama of people committing sexual acts and sins, fruits and animals everywhere, and weird looking formations. The right panel looks something like hell and the consequences of committing sins.
CA. The knight, as introduced by Chaucer, is a worthy and chivalrous man. He defended truth, honor, freedom and courtesy. He is a man of determination, will, and power as he has ridden farther than any man. The knight, it is described, has been revered among many people. His bravery is spoken of with accounts of militia expeditions and the defeat of foes. By Chaucer, the knight is described “as meeke as is a mayde”, though spoke out against wrongdoing. His horses are of good quality and strength, but the knight is not satisfied. His garb consists of a tunic over his armor.
The monk, according to the description given by Chaucer, is one of high status and masculine interests. He enjoys hunting and disregards the fact that hunters are deemed unholy. He studies in the monastery, things he disagrees with and which drive him mad. The monk has greyhounds to aid in hunting. He donned furs and skins to display his skill. He wore a golden pin upon his chest. The monk is bald and dark, oily face. His boots and his horse are both well cared for and in excellent condition.
The merchant in the tales has a forked beard and brightly colored clothes. He wears a beaver hat and elegant shoes. He is a clever and “worthy” man, who is indebted to no-one. The merchant is a man of control and dignified behavior. He is willing to bargain and settle finances fairly and honestly. He is esteemed for his fairness and wealthy because of it.
CB. There is a man wearing mirrored sunglasses and a red “Dr. Pepper” t-shirt with jeans. Another of the men has a vertically striped, brown button down. He is wearing dark jeans, as well. The third of the men adorns a blue/white/grey plaid hat and a shirt that notes his involvement in the Japanese club of a high school in 2005. His pants are brown cargos.
CD. The narrator sounds as if he is speaking with a brogue, though likely only because he is reading from a piece written in Middle English. I expected the pronunciation to be more similar to that of the modern day. The spelling variations are not so great that one cannot interpret the word, so I assumed that saying the words of similar structure and definition of today’s versions would be much the same. The emphasis in the passage is most usually on words with pairs of vowels. Hearing the passage read properly does not necessarily allow me to better comprehend the passage, but it does provide a better understanding of the language.
CG. The left panel of “Earthy Delights” depicts what seems to be an ideal world. Nature is lush and animals are healthy and plentiful. The sky is blue and the water is clear. There are two bare people with a figure similar in appearance to Jesus. The middlemost panel displays a more realistic scene of temptation and sin. Though the sky is still blue, and the water still clear, humans had overtaken nature and animals have become their slaves. Black figures can be spotted in the corners of the panel, each with an apple atop their head. The bounty of nature is taken for granted; gluttony is clearly depicted. Again, all human figures are bare. People are shown in groups. Nature, humans and animals have combined.
Chaucer: O allye, devyse to me your serye on the peynture, list.
Pardoner: I trowe the paynture kithes the soothness of all route. Shrewdeness is kithed, bitwix a parfit lyf and a lyf of soore consequens of shrewdeness.
Chaucer: Whennes is a parfit lyf kithed?
Pardoner: To preeve all humans trowe lyf can be parfit with the synnes sevene. They are unwar of ypunysshed synnes.
Chaucer: Avyseth the paynture and devyse whennes and wher synnes are parfit.
Pardoner: Moore part of the peynture is of girles not paynture and fair, but synnes sevene are ypunysshed on the right. Feends ypunnysshed vileynye acts that they post.
Chaucer: Feends are posts wher?
Pardoner: Betwix the foul paynture and the fair peynture.
Chaucer: Fordoon is devysed.
Pardoner: Fordoon of those foul girles who synne.
Emily Burgess
The Triptych by Hieronymus Bosch illustrates a very familiar story. In the first panel, the story begins. It shows the Garden of Eden and the first two people to live in it. The Second panel still depicts the garden, but it is now full of people. The first two panels show the garden as it first was, a paradise. In the final panel, the end of the story, the garden has been tainted by evil, it has been destroyed. This panel shows the garden after sin, there is no paradise left. This panel if the first panel in which pain, sorrow, and death are depicted.
G2. The lights turn on and a man is visible, staring up at the large painting in front of him. From behind him another man enters, and without turning the first man says “excellent painting, isn’t it Chaucer?”
“Why yes, yes it is. Quite interesting, ‘triptych’ I believe is the style of it. Yes, I have heard this style of painting is becoming quite popular.”
“I should think, were I able to paint like that, I could make a very pretty penny, a very pretty penny indeed.”
“Why my dear Pardoner, I’m sure you could, but have you really looked at the painting?”
“Yes, yes I have taken a good deal of time to admire it.”
“Well then, pray, tell me what it is showing us, I do believe you should have a good deal of knowledge about this subject matter.”
“Yes, a good deal of knowledge I do posess. Well, you see here, this first panel is the Garden of Eden with its first two inhabitants, and their visitor, I believe we know him as God. This first panel is paradise.”
“Excellent. And the second panel, what is the second panel?” The pardoner moved down an inch to get a better view of the second panel.
“Why, the second panel is still our magnificent garden of paradise; although it is quite different. This panel, Chaucer, is full of life and happiness. There are more people who are taking part in this wondrous place; they crowd it’s fields with joy and laughter.”
“How extraordinary! And the third panel, Pardoner, I should think you know what the third panel is.” The pardoner moved down some more to gaze solemnly up at the third panel. After a good deal of time had passed, he turned slowly to face Chaucer.
“Yes, Chaucer, I know what the third panel is. The third panel is still the garden, but it is no longer flourishing. The third panel shows us what happened after people had sinned. You can see all the pain and death in this panel. Tis a very dismal sight, Chaucer, a very dismal sight indeed.”
“My dear Pardoner, your insight is quite profound. Why, if I had known had deep you could be, I would have consulted you more often.”
“That wouldn’t have been needed my old friend. For you see, my insight is yours, after all, I am of your creation.” The lights then dimmed and the pardoner sauntered off, leaving Chaucer to stare up at the painting illuminated by the moon light and reflect about what had just been said.
Emily Burgess
B1. A caesura has different meanings depending on the time period to which you are referring to it in. In Greek or Latin verse, it is a break between words within a metrical foot. However, in modern times, it is simply a pause near the middle of a line. In Beowulf there are many examples of caesuras. One example appears right in the beginning. “Since erst he lay, a foundling, fate repaid him.” The words bolded in this sentence are the caesura. These words serve as the caesura because they are separated from the rest of the sentence by a comma, indicating that you are supposed to take a break while reading them or speaking them. Caesuras are very popular in Beowulf.
B2. Kenning is a technique often used in Old English or Old Norse poetry. It is two words hyphenated that mean the same thing that one word could have described. Kenning, like caesuras, are popular in Beowulf. “Mead-house,” “Word- hoard,” and “Shield- bearers” are all examples of kenning. “Mead- house” is referring to a place where they serve mead, an inn or tavern. “Word- hoard” is referring to the place where you keep words, in other words, the brain. And “shield- bearers” is referring to soldiers or warriors. All these are examples of kenning because they take two words and hyphenate them. These hyphenated words mean the same thing as a one worded synonym would, which makes them all examples of kenning.
B3. In “Beowulf” two different religious views are highlighted. These two different views are contrasted against each other. The views are those of the masculine Anglo- Saxons and the spiritual Christians. The Anglo- Saxons were Germanic tribes who settled in Great Britain around the fifth century (BBC). They valued things such as strength, honor, and integrity (Kefor). They look up to and worship a “hero” (Beowulf). In contrast, Christianity was mainly practiced in the ancient Roman provinces. It did not begin to spread until the end of the fifth century (Guisepi). They valued things such as a higher power, a belief in God (Kefor). They believed they lived in the “shelter of God” (Beowulf). The Anglo- Saxons were strong Germanic tribes with belief in masculine things such as strength and honor, in comparison to Christianity whose beliefs were in that which could not be seen or judged, the spiritual realm.
Emily Burgess
CA. First, Chaucer introduces us to the Knight. The knight loves chivalry, truth, honor and freedom. He is very high up in the ranks of knighthood and has performed many great tasks. Because of his rankings, he also has many weapons. There are also many names of places mentioned that the knight has traveled too. The knight, according to Chaucer, has worked for many lords. However, even with all these honors, the knight is “as meeke as is a mayde,” or as humble as a lady.
Chaucer also introduces us to the son of the knight, the squire. He appears to be twenty years old and very handsome; however he is a “lusty bachelor.” He was a medium height and had spent some time in knighthood. According to Chaucer, the squire was very pleasant and was always singing or whistling. He is said to have been as “fressh as is the monthe of May,” suggesting he is still very young in both his actual age and behavior.
Another person Chaucer introduces is the plowman who lives in “pees and [perfect] charitee.” He was a very hard worker and it was said that “God loved he best.” The plowman was a poor man but he seldom was said to complain. He would often work without pay if he had too. With him on this pilgrimage he took some of his work tools and a few meager possessions.
CB. In the rap version of the prologue the attire worn by the MC’s is not too outlandish. One of them is wearing very normal street clothes. He has on a Dr. Pepper t-shirt and a pair of sunglasses. Another of them has on a striped button down shirt and a baseball hat. The third MC is wearing a t-shirt, with an ill fitting hat one might see worn by beach goers.
CD. The narrator speaks very slowly, and puts heavy emphasis on the words or phrases that start a new sentence. He also pauses for a moment of so in between words, giving the listener time to process what was said. The narrator has a very heavy accent, but the way in which he speaks still makes it decodable. Although he is not reading the section in modern English, snippets of what he is saying are easily understood and, using context clues, the rest can be discerned.
CE. In “The Pardoner’s Tale,” Chaucer utilizes ironic personification to both characterize himself and the pardoner.
Ironic personification is used in two different ways, both to characterize someone. Chaucer personifies death as “an unseen thief,” suggesting that death has motives and takes actions. The way in which he is characterized as “unseen” compares him to a higher power, or God. God is also mentioned throughout this tale in such a way as to make the readers recognize God as the better of the two higher powers. “By God’s great dignity” is one such phrase used by the three brothers when embarking on their quest, suggesting that they have strong faith in God. These slight exclamations are inserted in slyly by Chaucer and serve to explain his views. Chaucer, as characterized throughout the tale is a strong believer in “God’s will.” He believes that your destiny is controlled for you.
Ironic personification is also used to characterize the three brothers. The three brothers, who each plot to keep the treasure for their own, were driven to do so because of the traitorous “Death.” Irony is present when the three arrive at the place where death was last seen only to find “florins of fine gold.” Out of greed, each of the brothers, in turn, take on the persona of death and kill each other. The pardoner that claims to pardon them of their trespassing. However, because each brother in turn took on the role of death, they were not trespassing, they were merely returning home.
“The Pardoner’s Tale,” serves not only to characterize Chaucer through the brother’s but to portray the irony of the pardoner’s job. This tale shows both the feelings of Chaucer about there being a God, and the irony of the pardoner pardoning death itself.
B1) A caesura is referred to as a powerful pause within a line. An example of a caesura is on page six. “No man is able to say in sooth, no son of the halls, no hero ‘neath heaven, -- who harbored that freight!”. The caesura in the quote occurs towards the end of the sentence with two dashes before the phrase “--who harbored that freight!” The use of caesura leads to a dramatic emphasis.
B2) A kenning is a compound expression used to replace a name or noun. Kennings in Beowulf include “breaker-of-rings” (King), “hell-thane’s” (Grendel), and “Seawood” (Ship).
B3) In the Anglo-Saxon culture, being a hero meant you were a warrior. The poem Beowulf depicts the characteristics one must have in order to be a hero and a warrior. They must be strong and fearless to destroy the “evil [that] lurked in the live long night of misty moorlands.” The Anglo-Saxon community was comprised of bold, resilient conquerors and would die to protect their people. Beowulf brings these qualities of the Anglo-Saxon community to life.
CA) The Yeoman was an accomplice of the Knight. Chaucer describes the Yeoman as a “sun-browned” man with a “cropped head.” The Yeoman may or may not have been a forester, as Chaucer said: “A Forester he truly was, I guess.” Chaucer implies that the Yeoman attempted to behave like a forester. Despite having similar characteristics to a forester, he was not one. Chaucer also describes the Yeoman as a religious man, as the Yeoman donned a “Christopher medal”.
CA) The Yeoman was an accomplice of the Knight. Chaucer describes the Yeoman as a “sun-browned” man with a “cropped head.” The Yeoman may or may not have been a forester, as Chaucer said: “A Forester he truly was, I guess.” Chaucer implies that the Yeoman attempted to behave like a forester. Despite having similar characteristics to a forester, he was not one. Chaucer also describes the Yeoman as a religious man, as the Yeoman donned a “Christopher medal”.
Chaucer depicts the Squire as “ a love and a lively bachelor.” He was a delicate man, yet “active, agile, and great of strength.” The Squire is another accomplice of the Knight. He was also musically gifted as “he could make songs and words thereto indite...” Being a squire, however, he was not a wealthy man, wearing a simple “gown, with sleeves both long and wide.”
The Knight is a bold character, fighting in many battles and winning all of his duels. He was truly a ruthless character, but was always honorable: “and honoured everywhere for worthiness.” He adored the art of chivalry only used for the greater good. Chaucer depicts the knight as the “truly perfect, noble knight.” He was a man who only wore simple clothing, despite it being “Discoloured and stained by his habergeon.” The Knight, as illustrated by Chaucer, is a powerful man and stands in the upper echelon of the pilgrims.
CB) There were a total of three men. One man wore a black shirt with a white hat with some brown and blue. There was an African-American who wore a striped brown shit and a brown hat. There was also a man wearing blue jeans, a red t-shirt, and sunglasses.
CD) The narrator spoke with a old English accent. One could identify a comma or another form of punctuation in the passage when the narrator took a very brief pause. The narrator’s accent allows the reader to translate old English words into modern ones due to the similar pronunciations (such as seek, which means sick).
CA) The Yeoman was an accomplice of the Knight. Chaucer describes the Yeoman as a “sun-browned” man with a “cropped head.” The Yeoman may or may not have been a forester, as Chaucer said: “A Forester he truly was, I guess.” Chaucer implies that the Yeoman attempted to behave like a forester. Despite having similar characteristics to a forester, he was not one. Chaucer also describes the Yeoman as a religious man, as the Yeoman donned a “Christopher medal”.
Chaucer depicts the Squire as “ a love and a lively bachelor.” He was a delicate man, yet “active, agile, and great of strength.” The Squire is another accomplice of the Knight. He was also musically gifted as “he could make songs and words thereto indite...” Being a squire, however, he was not a wealthy man, wearing a simple “gown, with sleeves both long and wide.”
The Knight is a bold character, fighting in many battles and winning all of his duels. He was truly a ruthless character, but was always honorable: “and honoured everywhere for worthiness.” He adored the art of chivalry only used for the greater good. Chaucer depicts the knight as the “truly perfect, noble knight.” He was a man who only wore simple clothing, despite it being “Discoloured and stained by his habergeon.” The Knight, as illustrated by Chaucer, is a powerful man and stands in the upper echelon of the pilgrims.
CB) There were a total of three men. One man wore a black shirt with a white hat with some brown and blue. There was an African-American who wore a striped brown shit and a brown hat. There was also a man wearing blue jeans, a red t-shirt, and sunglasses.
CD) The narrator spoke with a old English accent. One could identify a comma or another form of punctuation in the passage when the narrator took a very brief pause. The narrator’s accent allows the reader to translate old English words into modern ones due to the similar pronunciations (such as seek, which means sick).
B1. A caesura is a complete pause in a line of poetry or a musical composition. On page 6 of “Beowulf”, “No man is able to say in sooth, no son of the halls, no hero ‘neath heaven -- who harbored that freight!” includes a caesura where the dashes are to emphasize the dramatic effects which is done by the pause.
B2. A kenning is a type of literary setup that is in the form of a compound (two words, hyphenated) that employs figurative language of a single-word noun. On page 5, the word “whale-path” is a kenning, referring to the ocean where whales swim and leave paths that other animals may see. On page 6, the word “ring-dight, which has two words, meaning different things, combines the two words to mean something different, which in this case may mean bullet. A bullet has a ring-like shape and dight means to equip for a battle. Also on page 6, the “breaker-of-rings” is a kenning for a king of a comitatus which breaks off gold from spiral rings which, in Old English would be said as “breaker-of-rings.”
B3. On page 8, in “Beowulf”, a passage on the page relates to Anglo-Saxon: “Of Cain awoke all that woful breed, Etins and elves and evil-spirits, as well as the giants that warred with God weary while: but their wage was paid them!” Anglo-Saxons were very superstitious and believed that spirits, magic, potions, stones, etc could help fight off bad spirits.
“Ango-Saxons.” BBC. Primary History. Web. 7 Dec 2011.
For “The Canterbury Tales”
CA. In “The Prologue” and “Introduction”, Chaucer introduces the audience to a knight, a monk, and a clerk in order to show the variety of how diverse all of the pilgrims were. Chaucer describes the knight as “ a gentleman”. The knight was also seen as a brave man when it is described that “in the winning battle he was there” describing that he would always be there for his people to fight for them. He was “often put in place of honor” because “he always killed his foe” due to his bravery and pride. Chaucer’s explanation of the knight made it very clear that “he was very wise.”
The monk, who one may think would be unmaterialistic and holy, was actually seen as very high maintenance. Instead of studying and praying, “hunting was his sport” and overall “hunters are not holy men.” “He was a rider day and night” which explained how, instead of doing hard labor and working for his people, instead, he did what made only him happy. The fact that “his sleeves were made of fur” symbolized how he did not get dirty from labor like most monks would and also hunted which would be against an average monks will. The monk is described a “fat” which does not fit a monks feature due their fasting and only one small meal a day. The monks lifestyle in “The Canterbury Tales” does not fit an average monk in any ways.
From lines 413-446, Chaucer writes of “a physician” or “a doctor of medicine.” Unlike most physicians, this doctor went about his job of curing people “by natural science and studying astrological signs.” Chaucer describes how he was known as one of the best doctors even though he didn’t go about hi job in the traditional way. He was also very giving and modest and when one was sick, he would “send him drugs and all electuaries.” The physician “was but little on the Bible” explaining that he was more of a man of science than religion. Also, very different from “the Monk”, “the Physician”, (who although love his gold) was not very materialistic, keeping his money mainly due to his enjoyment of physics which relates to gold. “The Physician” goes about his job in a very different way than most physicians would.
continued...
CB. The rappers in “The Canterbury Tales rap” are dressed in modern-day clothes, acting a lot different than one would think of in the excerpt. The fact that they are even rapping throws off what would be expected of The Canterbury Tales. The setting is a cement wall which is covered in graffiti.
CD. The narrator’s voice sounds very different, with a heavy accent that is hard to understand. His voice sounds very calm but I can barely understand him, so I can’t really tell what he’s saying...
G: Shifting from a pure to dark and dreary setting in the painting “The Garden of Earthly Delights”, Bosch separates the painting into three panels in order to focus the viewer’s eye on each part of the painting, later seeing stages of life.
In the first panel of the painting, there is a very peaceful mood to it. Only three people are present in this section: God, Adam, and Eve. This is the event when God introduces them to one another. It has a feeling of purity between both Adam and Eve and the beginning of land and animals. This panel seems to symbolize the start of life and how everything was at some point, pure. Moving to the right of the first panel, the middle panel has an overwhelming amount of activities going on. Several people are engaged in sexual activities along with many animals, over-sized birds and over-sized fruit. The panel consists of a very happy feeling, with many people being connected with nature or extreme pleasure with life. In the final panel on the right, the mood shifts completely from happiness in the first two, to complete dread. This panel is a representation of Hell, showing depression and torture to the people who have been taken by the Devil. Many people are being crucified and executed, along with others being eaten by mutated animals. This panel represents the connection of dread to every day life as a human.
Beowulf
B1. A caesura is a pause or break in a line of verse that is dictated by a natural speech rhythm. An example of a caesura from the text would be, “[h]e, of all heroes I heard of ever from sea to sea, of the sons of earth, most excellent seemed.” This is an example of a caesura because of the natural break after the word “he.” If this were to be read aloud correctly, it would be read with a breath in between “he” and “of” and between “earth” and “most.” Dictated by a natural speech rhythm, the structure of this sentence calls for such breaks proving that this line is an example of a caesura.
B2. Kenning is a compound expression used in Old English and Old Norse poetry generally used in place of a name or a noun. An example of kenning is “sea-wood.” Based on context clues in the line, “[a]nd now the bold one from bands of Geats comrades chose, the keenest of warriors e'er he could find; with fourteen men the sea-wood he sought, and, sailor proved, led them on to the land's confines,” you can decipher the meaning of “sea-wood” as ship. Another example of kenning is found in this line, “[t]hrough the hall then went the Helmings' Lady, to younger and older everywhere carried the cup, till come the moment when the ring-graced queen, the royal-hearted, to Beowulf bore the beaker of mead.” The previous line uses the compound phrase “ring-graced” referring to the fact that the queen is married. A final example of kenning is in this line, “[o]'er the roof of the helmet high, a ridge, wound with wires, kept ward o'er the head, lest the relict-of-files should fierce invade, sharp in the strife, when that shielded hero should go to grapple against his foes.” Through the author’s imagery, it becomes obvious that the “relict-of-files” simply means sword.
B3. The Anglo-Saxons was a group that consisted of the Angles, from modern Germany, the Saxons, also from modern Germany, and the Jutes, from modern Denmark. Within the passages, there are a lot of references that hint at the traditions and values of the Anglo-Saxon culture along with the rise of Christianity. “This probably pagan nuisance is now furnished with biblical credentials as a fiend or devil in good standing, so that all Christian Englishmen might read about him.” This is a clear reference to Christianity; the line both uses the bibles and refers to a “Christian Englishmen.” There is also a clear reference to God; “He sang who knew tales of the early time of man, how the Almighty made the earth, fairest fields enfolded by water, set, triumphant, sun and moon for a light to lighten the land-dwellers, and braided bright the breast of earth with limbs and leaves, made life for all of mortal beings that breathe and move.” Throughout the passage, there are various references to that of the Anglo-Saxons and the rise in Christianity being experienced at the time.
BBC. “Anglo-Saxons.” Primary History. BBC 2011. 8 Dec. 2011. http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/primaryhistory/anglo_saxons/
The Canterbury Tales
CA. Throughout the course of the prologue, Chaucer introduces many characters. One of these, for example, is the monk. The monk is characterized as the complete opposite of how one would view a monk; “I saw his sleeves were made with fur at the hand with fine grey fur, the fines in the land; also, to fasten his hood under his chin, he had made of wrought-gold a curious pin: a love-knot in the larger end there was.” Chaucer’s description of the monk leads the reader to believe that he is well-to-do and does many things unlike a normal monk.
The knight is yet another character introduced by Chaucer. Depicted as chivalrous and bold when in his armor and then juxtaposed with his normal lifestyle without his armor, the knight seems to be fairly typical. “He was a truly perfect, noble knight. But now, to tell you of his array, his steeds were good, but he was not gaily dressed. A tunic of simple cloth he possessed discoloured and stained by his habergeon; for he had lately returned from his voyage and now was going on this pilgrimage.” This line emphasizes the extremes in the knight’s personality when suited up in his armor and when he is preparing for the pilgrimage.
Another character introduced by Chaucer in the prologue is the cook. The cook seems to be one of the more bland characters on the pilgrimage, but there is a hint of mystery lurking around his description. The cook is described as fairly normal, “boil[ing] the chicken with the marrow bones.” From this description, it is understandable that the cook was either trained or potentially even raised in France. The mystery lurking in the description of the cook deals with the fact that “on his shin an open sore had he” which is no longer recognized again in the prologue after it is stated.
CB. The MC’s were wearing a Dr. Pepper shirt, a shirt that I’m fairly certain had something to do with a Japanese Club, and an earth-tone button-up shirt.
CD. The narrator of this passage had a fairly thick, potentially Scottish accent. The way the narrator held out certain words, and sometimes even the way they sounded with his accent, gave the listener a fairly clear understanding of what he was saying.
CE. Within each story, Chaucer has a tendency to use a vast majority of irony. The pardoner’s tale is no exception to his typical writing style. In the pardoner’s tale, in relation to the pardoner’s persona and role, is made blatantly ironic by Chaucer.
Chaucer emphasizes the irony of the pardoner through his twisted characterization. Chaucer’s depiction of the pardoner is not at all what one would expect; “if gifts your change of heart and mind reveal, you’ll get my absolution while you kneel.” The pardoner in Chaucer’s tale uses bribery and other uncharacteristic techniques of a pardoner in order for people to be relieved of their sins. The use of irony with the pardoner complements all other aspects of Chaucer’s story. Within each section, there is some hint of irony.
Chaucer’s tone as echoed through his juxtaposition of the pardoner’s story and personality could be considered as fairly dry and negative. Within many of the tales, Chaucer produces an ironic and, predominantly in the pardoner’s tale, negative atmosphere surrounding each story. Ultimately, it can justifiably be concluded that Chaucer has a fairly negative outlook of religion and morality. Through his characterization, one can easily decipher the negative feelings Chaucer has towards some of the elements of religion and morality.
Part G:
1. In Bosch’s triptych, the artist is depicting the Garden of Eden through various stages. In the first panel, Bosch describes the garden as a simplistic, tranquil setting. As you move to the second panel, the scene becomes busier. Unlike in the first panel, the number of people occupying the garden grows. Because of this, their control over everything in the garden grows as well. By the time the third panel is reached, you realize the inevitable destruction of the garden; it becomes dark and less tranquil.
2.
Chaucer: This is what the world will eventually come to.
Pardoner: Although it looks bad, all can be forgiven.
Chaucer: How could you expect to forgive all of the sinning?
Pardoner: If gifts your change of heart and mind reveal, you’ll get my absolution while you kneel.
Chaucer: Such uncharacteristic techniques of a pardoner.
Pardoner: That may be; however, it keeps both me and those who are sinning happy. Let them revel in their demise. As long as they remain happy, that is all that matters.
Sara Pishadian
B1.
A caesura is a strong pause or stop within a metrical line and in Old English poetry it is common that it splits a line into equal parts. In the line, “save only the land and the lives of his men.”, the caesura is after the and breaking the line into the first part into seven syllables and the second into six syllables which aesthetically sounds pleasing and justifies it being near the middle of the line. The break also serves to the meaning of the line, putting emphasis on the land and the lives of his men equally while also differentiating between the two. This particular line has a clear caesura in the middle of the phrase as well as in between the two separate, but related thoughts which the “and’ does wonderfully in separating while still associating them,.
B2.
Kenning is a conventional, prise metaphoric name or figurative phrase for something, such as “whale-path” for sea or “bone house” for body. In one line “Sore was the sorrow to Scylings’-friend”, “Scylding’s-friend” is kenning for Hrothgar. This is precise description of Hrothgar and is replacing the common noun (his name). Another example of kenning would be the in the line “stalward and stately. A stout wave-walker”. Wave-walker is kenning for a boat, and this make sense since boats ride waves, was a someone walks on the ground. A few lines later, kenning for boat is used again, this time it is called “sea-wood”. The line is “anchored their sea-wood, with armor clashing”. It is clear through context clues and the actual kenning word that it is a boat, as boats are the only things we anchor. The wood that the boat is made of has traveled by sea to get to the Danish shore, and now has transitioned from a simple wood to “sea wood”, which the boat is composed of. Kenning is a superb example of the evolution of language and how, if the word does not exist, people are capable of describing it through other nouns to
Sara Pishdadian
B3. Beowulf is indicative of Old English and is infused with a curious blend of the traditions and values of Anglo-Saxon culture and the rise of Christianity. Do a bit of research regarding the Anglo-Saxons. Quote and discuss passages from the text that represent this unique dynamic. Use MLA format to cite your sources. (3 paragraphs- opening, body, closing)
In Beowulf, the rise of Christianity is juxtaposed with the values of the Anglo-Saxon culture through the differences between pride and humility.
The Germanic way of life of the Anglo-Saxons where war, power and pride were a focus starkly contrasts the depiction of a gentle God, who is protective and values wisdom. Hrothgar tells Beowulf “remember thy glory; thy might declare”, which is typical of the culture of the Anglo- Saxons who valued bravery and conquest in war (Anglo-Saxon stories and pastimes). The small tribal groups popular in this era during the six hundred years of the Anglo-Saxon period, resulted in many different wars and various traditions including different religions among the Anglo-Saxons. It can be generalized, however, that they were pagans (Anglo-Saxon life). In Beowulf, there are themes of Chrisitanity and a singular God or Lord is mentioned with Beowulf saying “came bright God's beacon; the billows sank” as well as “a glorious gift that God had sent/ the splendid leader”. The introduction of a singular, protective God shows the clear influence of Christianity including when “Holy God” is used by Hrothgar. The Anglo-Saxon culture is seen through the festivities (“ till the hall they saw,/ broad of gable and bright with gold”), Beowulf’s boasting and the emphasis on legacy, such as when the importance of Beowulf being “honored still” is spoken of in the beginning of the text. Beowulf introduces some defining characteristics of the Anglo-Saxon way of life, while also offering a glimpse of the gradual domination of Christianity in Europe.
When analyzing a text such as this, it is crucial to evaluate the time period as it is as potent as an author’s intent. The influences of the Anglo-Saxon culture and morals of early Christianity are shown throughout Beowulf and allow the reader to have an idea of what life must have been like in this time. Because, as Beowulfl demonstrates, the written word is ultimately the best way to determine the social climate in a time period.
Works Cited
"BBC - Primary History - Anglo-Saxons - Stories and Pastimes." BBC - Homepage. BBC.com. Web. 18 Dec. 2011. .
"Anglo-Saxon Life." UK Travel and Heritage - Britain Express UK Travel Guide. Britainexpress.com. Web. 18 Dec. 2011..
CA:
I. THE MONK
Chauncer characterizes the Monk pilgrim by establishing irony, suggesting the potency ones’ physical appearance to create a persona of the monk that is of a higher class and who, Chauncer is fond of. Chauncer’s characterization of the monk begins with his profession and a positive judgement of him being “one of the finest sort” and the narrator even tells us how “I said his opinion was good”. Chauncer describes his hobbies of “hunting” in a positive manner saying how he is “a manly man”. He almost admires the unorthodox ways of this monk who “followed the new-world manners in [the older standard’s] place [of the church]”. The physical appearance of fatness, which was associated with wealth and prosperity during this time, shows Chauncer’s subtle message of the Monk being content, and lucky as well as the choice to give this character the title of a monk in such a caste society where the profession one has, is indicative of their role in society.
II. THE FRANKLIN
When characterizing The Franklin, Chaucer focuses on his internal desires and social class to build upon his personality. He is said to have a “sanguine temperament”, and to have also“held opinion that plain and pure delight was true happiness”. Along with the clear emphasis on pleasure, the reference is made to Epicurus, whose beliefs are vaguely reminiscent of the existing hedonistic beliefs of the modern era. The man’s profession of being a landowner as well as “sheriff” and “tax auditor” in the past are reflective of his wealth, which is also described in the food he consumes, with “ale” that is “always good and fine” with no man having cellars “better stocked with wine”. The actual persona of the Franklin isn’t elaborated upon excluding brief mentions such as how he “often acted as a knight of shire”. The negligence of more obvious tools to characterize The Franklin is assumed to be a conscious effort by Chaucer and therefore leads the reader to stress the influence his profession and life philosophies have on his personality. The overall perception is of The Franklin being wealthy, selfish and possibly self-destructive.
III. THE CLERK
In establishing the character of the Clerk, Chaucer utilizes The Clerk’s actions accompanied by preconceived notions to create the individual’s charisma. The Clerk’s life is dominated by his love of philosophy to the point where he “might borrow from a friend” and “on books and learning he would swiftly spend”. The idea of dedication is continued when he is further described as taking “utmost care and heed for his study” as well as having a personality “full of high morality”. Chaucer is passing judgment through this character and implying that a studious nature is likely indicative of a more kind spirit, which is further supported by his description of how he “Not one word spoke he more than was necessary”, a man who is obviously self-contained as well as being cautious. His committed behavior to the expansion of personal knowledge, accompanied by how he would “gladly teach” allude to the concept of those who are willing to sacrifice personal conventions for the larger development of knowledge are better people. Society’s depiction of the educated as superior helps enhance Chaucer’s description of The Clerk as the more benevolent, morally stable and selfless pilgrim.
CB:
The MC’s attire consists of horribly chosen t-shirts and beach hats that do not match. One man is wearing a Dr. Pepper shirt accompanied with faded blue jeans, which is blatantly inappropriate for his age that make him look as if he is forty-eight and beginning a mid-life crisis instead of the actual thirty-two that he probably is. One of the other MCs is wearing a vertically-striped brown button up paired with a horrid, straight leg dark jean pant which exemplifies pure shame. Lastly, we have the final MC who wears semi-loose gray pants (not a crime yet), with a black, very loose t-shirt with white centered writing, hinting at his clear nerd status and his vast experience at a Star Trek conventions.
CD:
The voice of the narrator is strong, soothing and filled with emotion when necessary.
When he reads “from every shires ende/of Engelond, to Caunterbury they wende” excitement creeps into his voice and in a similar way, a somber tone is exhibited near the end with the phrase “who helpd them when they lay so ill and weak”. The different emphasis on words and phrases helps the reader understand the tone, which is especially helpful considering the text is in Middle English which is relatively difficult to comprehend. The accent of the narrator helps bring the text alive, and helps the reader immerse themselves into the time period when Chauncer wrote it, where people sounded as the narrator does (or at least more like the narrator than other people do today). Overall, the narrator’s voice was wonderful at helping set the mood of an adventure or epic tale while exposing the reader to the tone of the story.
CE:
In The Canterbury Tales, more specifically The Pardoner’s Tale, Chaucer develops a character who borders on hypocritical and tells a story that is ironic because of the narrator and its conclusion which alludes to Chaucer’s opinion of the misplaced morals of religion and the general public during this time period.
The Pardoner is expected to be a human depiction of what is morally right yet he shares a story full of sin. As the one who sells indulgences, it is expected that his tale will be one of people who are devoted and accepting of higher powers, yet the story involves murder, the inability to accept death, and betrayal. There is an evident undertone of irony as it is surprising to the reader that the Pardoner would share a story with clearly questionable characters. Chaucer’s choice to have the Pardoner be a questionable character can be said to represent his feelings of all religious personnel, and particularly indulgences and how they can border on hypocritical and be manipulative.
The actual tale the Pardoner shares is filled with contradictions, irony and manipulative undertones. The angered three young men in the story kill death, succeeding with their superficial goal yet all perish at their own hands, indicating the blame all men deserve as well as the oblivious nature of the human race. In the tale, these men swear to kill death saying how “we’re of one mind” and “let each of us hold up his hand to other” yet the first two men conspire to murder the third, planning to commit a sin of betrayal and the last man succeeds in killing them both through poison. The greed of man is shown here, as well as the fickle nature of his words. The irony of their betrayal pales in comparison to the irony of their murdering death, yet death taking them all in the end. The story ends with no clear conclusion and definitely unhappily, as the third man was rich yet betrayed his friends, and ultimately did not escape death, as no one is exempt. The morals the church instills, especially the selling of indulgences, which were advertised as a way to have ones’ sins to be forgiven to escape punishment, serves as a stark juxtaposition to the the men’s actions in the tale, and the reader can assume that Chaucer is hinting at the behavior of the clergy as well as the morals the church preaches.
Assuming that Chauncer was an extremely creative writer and wrote his stories to depict his opinions, the reader can infer that his tone was critical throughout The Pardoner’s Tale. His choices to write of a pardoner with questionable morals and a tale where all characters make decisions which are contradictory to their goals can only be construed to mean he did not agree with all the church’s policies and wanted his readers to ponder them on their own. If Chauncer did support the church unquestionably, it would be difficult to understand his creation of unlikeable, contradictory characters who do not understand the real “traitor” not being death, but man.
Part G:
1. In my opinion, the panel is depicting a past scene, a present and a future warning. The first panel appears to be Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden. There is peace, comfort and appears that God is there between them, alluding to acceptance. Animals are all around and the environment appears to be thriving. In the second panel, which is also the largest, which leads me to believe it is the present as it is being given more significance, there are significantly more people and there is a freedom omnipresent. People are nude once again, and comfortable with their nudity and there are less animals. In the center of the panel, there are men riding horses in a circle, creating an almost warlike feel. Other parts of the picture that stood out to me were the people picking apples from a tree (apples are well known for being associated with temptation and some of these people have their arms filled with apples), as well as there being people near the bottom of the panel who are black. Near the top of the panel there are structures that seem to be large and allude to wealth, while the people near the bottom are closer in physical proximity as well as being committing more sin. The difference between the top of the panel to the bottom of the panel can be thought of as the class system present. The lighting in the first two panels are equally bright, though the greenery in the second one is much more alive. The third or right panel is significantly darker than the other two, and people are either injured, covering themselves and there is a smaller population present. I believe that the last panel is a warning or Bosch’s interpretation of what might occur in the world with people losing a sense of their morals and indulging themselves. The pure insanity and complexity of the third panel, and the background of the buildings which appear to be on fire as if there is a war occurring (there is one shadow of someone on a horse with a sword in hand that supports this idea) may be reflective of what man has done to the planet, and lack of control humans have, which will ultimately lead to our demise.
2. If Chauncer and the Pardoner were to discuss the image, I believe that they would enter a fight over the third panel and how it came to be. I believe Chauncer would argue something along the lines of how “The right panel discusses what man is capable of and the innate evil and corruption present, as our morals are not clear and we are easily misled.” while the Pardoner would discuss “how humans are greedy and when do not follow the Church and seek condolence from the Lord, they will perish” which is supported by him saying his theme was “radix malorum est cupiditas” in the Canterbury tales. Both men would come to an agreement about “the destruction and lack of order” present in the panel but Chauncer, would be firm and disagree with “people needing indulgences” and argue that “man will create a world like the third panel out of its misguided morals, greed and inability to work together” while the Pardoner would argue that “avoiding punishment and curing ones’ sins are crucial and mans’ inability to fight temptation and greed, not misguided morals, are what will cause the third panel to occur”. Their differing opinions stems from Chauncer believing in a world where man takes more responsibility for his actions while the Pardoner declaring God as the ultimate power who knows what people should do.
Danielle MacDermott
December 18, 2011
Period C
AP English
Chaucer Assignment
Chaucer Assignment
(CA)The Squire:
Chaucer characterizes the Squire in a positive manner and seems to respect him. He describes the Squire as being young, full of strength, and is trying to win a lady over. The Squire sounds fit, handsome with his curls, and full of life. Also, the Squire is a member of the cavalry and follows in his father’s footsteps.
The Knight:
Chaucer characterizes the Knight as someone who is described in a positive manner also with adjectives like “truth, honor, freedom, and all courtesy.” The Knight held a high place in everyone’s hearts and was held above all the “knights in Prussia” and always accomplished his mission by killing the foe. Then Chaucer shifts in characterizes the Knight in a slightly different light. He alludes to the fact that the Knight has done something that is out of character for him as being a noble, truthful soldier.
The Cook:
Chaucer describes the Cook as a person who is very talented at his task. The Cook can do all sorts of things like boil, fry, make good pies, and knew how to provide people with enough food. Although the Cook was very skilled he had one blemish which was an open sore on his shin. Chaucer wants the audience to feel pity for the cook.
(CB)
The attire of the MC’s in this dope rape is a red Dr. Pepper shirt with black shades, a brown striped dress shirt with a tilted tan hat, and some goofy guy with a plaid fishermen hat.
(CD)
The narrator’s voice sounds like a soft German dude. Also, he is setting up a scene in a very, poetic manner but I have no idea what he is actually saying and the pronunciations do not help because I am not familiar with the words of Old English.
(CE)
The Pardoner’s Tale is painfully ironic because does not actually pardon you for your sins, instead he is just doing it to scam and get money from people. In the Christian religion God does not forgive ones sins for a price of gold or silver. This irony complements the irony that is already within the tale because The Three Men are looking for Death and find it. Also, they all try to kill one another but all of them end up dead. The Two of them thought that they killed the third which they did but not before he also killed them. Chaucer’s tone seen throughout the Pardoner’s character and tale is that people are selfish and always do things that benefit themselves. Also, Chaucer’s tone is critical because he is trying to say how religion is flawed and one thinks it is there to do good where in actuality it does more bad.
(G)
1.) In the first panel it is depicting the scene of Adam and Eve and the Forbidden Fruit in the Garden of Eden. This shows the original sin of mankind. The next panel shows life and the consequences of the first original sin on the entire human race. The last panel shows the downward spiral and the ultimate last stop for all sinners which is hell.
2.) (Conversation between Chaucer and the Pardoner)
(Both men are sitting in room talking facing each other in chairs.)
Chaucer: So Pardoner, have you seen the painting by Bosch called “The Garden of Earthly Delights”? What do you think of it?
Pardoner: Why yes I have. I think it is very interesting because it shows the world we all live in due to the original sin of Adam and Eve.
Chaucer: Yes, and I think it also shows how religion is flawed and no longer reflects the basic values of religion because innately all humans are sinners. Also, religion is just there to make people feel better for all the sins they have committed.
Pardoner: I strongly disagree because I am here for a reason to forgive people for their sins. Plus that is just a silly painting it doesn’t mean anything in the literal sense.
(Both men say their goodbyes and go on their way.)
Beowulf
B1.
A caesura is a break in the line used to represent a complete pause in the poetry. It is often placed in near the middle of the line and is often used in Old English verse. The purpose of the caesura was to divide the line into two parts to show the pauses in speech. An example of caesura in “Beowulf” is the line “high in the hall: there harps rang out.” The line talks about the noise in the hall, then pauses with a break, and continues to mention the harps ringing out in the hall.
B2.
Kenning is a when two words or a phrase, using figurative language in place of a single word. This literary device is associated with Norse and Anglo-Saxon poetry such as Beowulf. A few examples from Beowulf include “whale-path” which means the sea. The sea being a path that whales would take, being that whales swim in the sea. “Breaker of rings” refers to the king or ruler of who breaks the rings on his arm to reward his men. “Battle-sweat” is a kenning referring to blood. While in battle, the longer one fights, the more blood one while acquire on one’s person.
B3.
Infused with a curious blend of traditional Anglo-Saxon values and early Christian components, Beowulf is indicative of this and represents the unique dynamic values of both traditions. In the Prelude, the passage describes “the leader beloved who long had ruled” and how they were going to lay “they down their darling lord.” The poem continues to describe the traditional burial of a king in Anglo-Saxon tradition in which the deceased is laid with their most valuable treasure and then, put onto a ship and let sail into the ocean. They “freighted with him” many treasures “fetched from far.” Then afterward, when “his bosom lay a heaped hoard,” they “hoist the standard” and “gave him to the ocean.”
"Beowulf - Story." Pace University. Csis.pace.edu. Web. 18 Dec. 2011. .
Delahoyde, Michael. "Anglo-Saxon Culture." Washington State University. Public.wsu.edu. Web. 18 Dec. 2011. .
Canterbury Tales
CA:
In his Canterbury Tales, Chaucer begins by describing each and every one of the many pilgrims. One of which is the Knight. The Knight was “a gentleman” who “loved chivalry, truth, honour, freedom, and all courtesy.” He was honorable and courageous in battle in Alexandria, Prussia, Latvia, and Russia. He was strong and courageous, but “of temper” he was “meekly as a maid.” He is described as pure and “truly perfect.” He is dressed simply of “a tunic of simple cloth” that was “discoloured and stained.”
The Monk, was a monk who enjoyed hunting, and kept “very man excellent horses.” They were covered in many bells. His description suggests that he is very wealthy despite the image of monks being devout followers of their religion, preferring to live in poverty rather than in normal society. His “sleeves were made with fur”, his “hood…wrought-gold” and he was “fat” with “bulging eyes.” He delighted in dining on “fat swans.”
The Merchant had a “forked beard” and wore a “Flemish beaver hat.” He had “boots” that “were fastened neatly and elegantly” suggesting he is wealthy like the Monk. He is overall very tidy, organized and educated suggested from the fact that “he kept all his wits well set” and that me “well managed all his trade affairs.” He learns from his experiences, “stressing the times when he had won, not lost.”
CB:
In this dope rap version of The Prologue, there are two white men and an African American man. One man is wearing a red Dr. Pepper shirt. Another is wearing a black and white striped brown shirt that you button down, with a black shirt underneath. The third man is wearing a black shirt with indistinguishable white words. The man with the Dr. Pepper shirt has sunglasses, and the black-shirted man has a hat, much like a fishing hat. The African American man is what looks to be a simple baseball cap. They are all wearing pants except the man wearing the Dr. Pepper shirt, who is wearing jeans.
CD:
The narrator’s voice is very soothing, and calm. He speaks clearly and pronounces each word clearly. My impression of his pronunciation is that he emphasizes the end of each line by a soft fading of his voice. The narrator pronounces words ending in –our like that of sour, and words ending in with a consonant and an –es or –e ending, with an emphasis on the –e.
CE:
The Pardoner’s Tale is painfully iron in relation to Pardoner’s own person and role. The Pardoner’s Tale is about three men who seek to stop Death in his destruction of more lives. And upon their search, they are lead to a great treasure, in which they all plot to take for themselves, which ended with all three men dead, and taken by Death. The Pardoner elaborates on the morals of his tale, condemning the three men as treacherous, greediness, wickedness, and villainy. Upon which, the Pardoner proceeds to offer to sell indulgences to the party for gold.
In addition to the fact that the Pardoner demonstrates blunt irony in his sale of indulgences, the Tale itself is ironic in the fact that the three men go in search for Death and in the end, Death finds them. This irony within the Tale conflicts with the Pardoner’s irony in that the irony with the Pardoner is on the topic of greed, while the irony within the Tale is that of Death.
Through Chaucer’s juxtaposition of the Pardoner and his personality, one might assume that Chaucer does not respect the Pardoner and disagrees with many of the practices. Such as the sale of indulgences and the kissing of relics. Chaucer replies to the Pardoner, when the Pardoner offers a pardon, “why, you would have me kissing your old breeches, And swear they were the relics of a saint, though with your excrement 'twere dabbed like paint.” Through that statement, one might conclude that Chaucer has some disagreements with the church and religion. Chaucer, through the Pardoner’s Tale expresses his discontent with religion.
Part G:
1. The scenes depicted in each panel are as follows. The first panel depicts the Garden of Eden, with a Christ figure standing with Adam and Eve. The second panel depicts the world and its people enjoying “earthly delights” all the while being naked. The third panel illustrates the underworld, and the consequences of leading a sinful life.
2.
Chaucer: My, my, what a lovely painting.
Pardoner: Notice all the sinful activities they are partaking in. What a shame, all those people, going straight to the devil. Say, my dear Chaucer, would you fancy buying one of these indulgences?
Chaucer: Oh no! I daresay I couldn’t. Indulgences… You clergy and your greed. Your indulgences couldn’t save me or anyone in this painting.
Pardoner: But why? Why?
Chaucer: Those people in the middle panel have what’s coming to them. They cannot buy their way out of hell. You really don’t have any of your mystical religious powers that you claim to have.
Pardoner: But the pope blessed me himself. Buy an indulgence, and save yourself from eternal damnation. Look at those people suffering from the infinite horrors, fires, and tortures. If they had only bought an indulgence or two, they could be with Jesus and in the Garden of Eden.
Chaucer: Money cannot tip the scale on Judgment Day. You will suffer just like those in the painting just as much, even if you were wealthy beyond belief.
Pardoner: Then I will be on my way, if you will not indulge yourself on a few indulgences, to save precious souls from hell.
Matthew Remick
AP English D
Beowulf
B1, A caesura is a grammatical pause or break in the middle of a line of poetry or sentence. The placing of a caesura is dictated by the flow of speech, and not poetic metrics (structure). In Old English poems traditionally two half-lines are separated by a caesura. The caesura is derived from when poems were mainly spoken orally, and not written down. In example from the prelude “liegemen loyal: by lauded deeds”. Thus the caesura implies a pause.
B2, Kenning is the use of compounding two or more terms in place of a more concrete phrase. Examples of keening include “breaker-of-rings”, “sea-wood”, and “bold-in-battle”. The “breaker-of-rings” represents a great leader who would break apart the golden arm-bands of his foes and reward his men. “Sea-wood” stands in for a ship and refers to its material and where it travels. And “bold-in-battle” is valor because there was no better place to test one’s courage than on a battlefield.
B3, Beowulf marks the progression of Christianity and its dynamic blending into traditional Anglo-Saxon beliefs. From the start the Christian influences on the work are great. The story of how the “Almighty made the earth” bears close resemblance to the book of Genesis. The great beast Grendel is described as a descendent Cain, from the Biblical story of Cain and Abel, and is thus cursed by God and chased “from sight of men”. The hero Beowulf puts a great emphasis on God’s influence as his protector; his might is described as “the mercy of God”, and in telling of how he defeated Grendel’s mother Beowulf laminates how “He guides the friendless wight”. Equally homage is paid to the ancient Anglo-Saxon heathenism. Beowulf’s helmet is decorated with boars; boars are symbolic of Freyr the god of "bestows peace and pleasure on mortals". The idea of wyrd, fate, is a fusion of Christian and Anglo-Saxon beliefs on the question of life after death. The Danes still hold onto pagan beliefs, “Head of Heavens and High King of the World, was unknown to them”, thus it is significant that a hero sent by God can vanquish evil, yet the Danes cannot.
Matthew Remick
AP English D
Chaucer CA-CD
CA, The Knight is described as being “truly perfect” in terms of character and stature. The Knight believes in chivalry along with the virtues of “[t]ruth, honour, freedom”. His battles from Granada to Turkey against the “heathens” exemplify his Christian faith. Often he was “put in the place of honour”, and was chance found at “noble meetings”. On top of that he was also wise, and held neither villainess nor temper. The Knight wears a “simple tunic cloth” which reveals his humble nature. Further his tonic is still stained from his chainmail; again revealing his good nature because he is going on a pilgramidge so soon after fighting. The noble Knight, because he occupies the highest social standing, has his story told first.
The Monk defies the church with his sport and merriment, and is thus labeled an “outrider”. The bells of his hunting horses can be heard “as loud as does the chapel bell”. The monk defies “old and strict” texts that forbid such acts. Chaucer agrees that the Monk should not “work and sweat” as other monks do, but should continue to hunt. The Monk is dressed from head-to-toe in fine fur clothing. The Monk’s eyes “gleamed” with vigor and his complexion was anything but “pale”. The Monk is much more of a feudal lord than a simple, studious servant of God.
The Parson, although poor in a monetary sense, is rich in “holy thought”. The Parson was devout, “gracious”, and “patient” when it came to his religious teachings. He never excommunicated “for a fee” and was free of corruption. The Parson freely gave away his money and possessions to his flock. The Parson taught through “good example” and his refusal of physical goods exemplifies this. The priest taught everybody, from the sinners, to the rich and poor, the same. Truly there “never was a better priest”.
CB, One man wears a red “Dr. Pepper” t-shirt, the other a black t-shirt that reads “Maryknoll High School Japanese Club 2005”, and the third wears a brown stripped dress shirt over a plain brown t-shirt.
CD, The audio recording of The Prologue in Middle English further complicates an already difficult piece of literature. The narrator’s voice and accent, although authentic to the time period, clouds the words and turns the piece foreign. The gaiety of the passage is brought out because the narrator’s voice, something lost in the text.
Matthew Remick
AP English D
Chaucer CE-Part G
CE, The Pardoner himself states that he is in fact a “fraud”, and the fact that his story echoes the phrase “greed is the root of evils” is painfully ironic. The Pardoner is a fake, who swindles money under a “hue of holiness”. His case of “rags, aye, and of bones” are promised to do everything from curing poisons to stopping jealousy. The Pardoner’s story of three men who believe that the “belly is their god” and kill themselves over their greed and gluttony is ironic in the sense that The Pardoner is equally guilty of the crimes.
The irony of The Pardoner’s character is greatly complemented by the irony in the tale itself. The tale comes off as a well-practiced sermon that The Pardoner would tell to any number of gullible parishioners. Long sections of the tale are The Pardoner’s views on the evils of swearing and gluttony. The “smooth tongued” Pardoner even tries to sell his vial relics to his fellow pilgrims even after he has told them of their fake authenticity. The nature of the tale highlights The Pardoner’s sinful nature in his pursuit of wealth.
Chaucer employs a humorous tone throughout The Pardoner’s tale. This tone is seen in the tale itself (the men plotting to double-cross one another), and then in how the tale contrasts to the nature of The Pardoner. The tale is doubly humorous because The Pardoner was asked to tell a tale of “morality”. From the mouth of any other person of virtue the story would expound on some moral, but from The Pardoner a whole new meaning is derived. The irony highlight’s Chaucer’s view of religion as a tool. The Pardoner is a direct foil to The Parson. As one accepts riches, the other sacrifices them.
Part G, Hieronymous Bosch's painting "The Garden of Earthly Delights" represents the fall of man. From the left we see the beginnings of Adam and Eve, in the middle man engages in promiscuity, right shows man’s eternal damnation. Either that or the triptych shows the utopia (middle) that man could have lived in if Adam and Eve had not betrayed God, and the hell (right) that humans now find
Stephen Burrill
12.19.2011
Beowulf and Chaucer assignment
B1. Caesura is the use of punctuation marks to create a pause in a work of writing. Throughout the text in Beowulf commas and dashes are utilized to stress the importance of a certain phrase or word. The sentence “No man is able to say in sooth, no son of the halls, no hero 'neath heaven, -- who harbored that freight! The use of the commas is utilized to break up the individual thoughts in the beginning of the sentence. At the end of the sentence two dashes make it seem as if there is a complete pause in front of the final phrase “who harbored that freight.” This pause seems to generate importance to the final phrase by effectively bringing unity to the sentence as a whole.
B2. A kenning is a figurative, compound expression used to describe a noun. The first example of Kenning in Beowulf is the use of the words “wave-walker.” I have deduced from the context of the poem that wave-walker symbolizes the sailors. Words such as boat and waves have helped me conclude that wave-walkers are involved with sea-life. Another example of a kenning found in Beowulf would be “sea-wood.” The word sea-wood is a compound word for the ship. Back in the time of Beowulf, ships were made of wood, hence the name “sea-wood.” The last display of kenning I found in Beowulf was “gold-friend.” Gold-friend means good friend; this can be supported because gold is a sign of importance. Therefore a gold friend would be one of importance, and so a very good friend.
B3. The Anglo-Saxon culture is clearly evident throughout the poem of Beowulf. During the times of Old English Anglo-Saxons, God was often a prevalent piece in every Anglo-Saxons life. The importance of God is clearly shown throughout Beowulf. Often after surviving battles it was “god they thanked” and the “mercy of God” were often the main priorities of a typical Anglo-Saxon. The religious ideals of the Anglo-Saxons were also reflected in the occurrence of Cain and Abel. Cain was “avenged by the Sovran God for slaughtered Abel.” This mention of Cain and Abel shows the importance of both religion and God at the time. Anglo-Saxons also resided in tribes during the Old English times. In Beowulf the people are “from many a tribe.” The high class, who were above the tribes, was the warriors of the tribe. In Beowulf, there are many wars and warriors, the most important warrior being Beowulf. The tribes considered Beowulf to be a hero. Anglo- Saxons had very high expectations of a hero; heroes were often humble, courageous, and caring. They cared about protecting their people more than anything else. Beowulf is considered “thee of heroes best” and “all averred that from sea to sea, or south or north,
there was no other in earth's domain, under vault of heaven, more valiant found,
of warriors none more worthy to rule!”
Stephen Burrill
12.19.2011
Beowulf and Chaucer assignment
CA. The knight- In the Canterbury Tales, the knight is portrayed as a person of great respect. He is respected due to the fact that he has been a part of many wars and has fought for his people. The knight is wise and well respected. He is truthful and courageous, with a great sense of honor. He seemed like a fairly successful knight, who never lost in a duel. He was a “truly perfect, noble knight” both strong and brave. Although he was fairly successful and famous, he dressed simply. The knight reminds me of our soldiers that are currently at war. They are extremely well respected and courageous but at the same time humble and focused on the task at hand.
The merchant- The merchant is portrayed as a man that’s well off and knows what he’s doing. The merchant has a forked beard with a multi- colored gown, a beaver-hat and boots that are strapped elegantly. From this description it is obvious that the merchant is in the upper echelon of people in his area. He seems to focus on the good he’s done, which makes him seem kind of cocky. He is clearly smart in his area of expertise and knows what he’s doing. He is wealthy, but at the same time he just blends in with all the other people that are well off. In modern times, this reminds me of most of the upper class. The upper class is wealthy and seems to be important, but in reality none of them have true identities that make them standout, much like the merchant.
The Plowman- The plowman was a typical poor man, who loaded carts with dung for a living. He was a had worker and worked for everything he had, even if it wasn’t much. He was prosperous in peace and happiness and that’s all that mattered to him. He loved God, very devoutly, even through the toughest of times. He was a gregarious person, and often loved his neighbors as much as he loved himself. He was a good person, who although very poor, always paid his taxes on time. The plowman seems like the typical person in today’s world, except a much bigger optimist.
CB. One of the MC’s had a red Dr. Pepper shirt on with jeans and sunglasses. Another MC had a black shirt on from his high school, with brown pants and a white fishing hat that had various shades of grey and a strip of blue. The last MC had a brown collared stripped shirt with a light brown hat pushed to the side and dark greenish- brown pants.
CD. The narrator’s voice was extremely quick and rather confusing to listen to at first. Once I listened to it a second time though, I understood some of the language and noticed some patterns in the narrator’s speech. During pronunciation, the narrator carefully pronounced every letter of the word. The narrator didn’t skip over a letter of a word like people often do in today’s world. Every letter of the word was pronounced richly and fully. The narrator’s accent was very hard and quick, which made it difficult to understand at first. Some of the words sounded extremely different, and almost completely foreign. During the audio, the narrator often paused during words or after phrases to emphasize importance.
Stacie Linfield
Beowulf
1.Caesura is a pause or break in a line of poetry. An example is: “We twain had talked, in time of youth, and made our boast, -- we were merely boys, striplings still, -- to stake our lives far at sea: and so we performed it." This sentence is a good example because it shows what a drastic shift caesura can have on context. Here, the narrator is saying that when they were younger they wanted to risk their lives out at sea, and the narrator makes an interjection in-between to reinforce their youth at the time. This separates the sentence slightly while still keeping the main topic at hand.
2.Kenning is taking two words to describe something that does not have a name. 3 Examples are: “ale-cup” (mug), “sea-wood” (ship), “ocean-travellers” (sailors). Ale is an old word for beer, and the cup is describing what it is in, so we can conclude that this is a mug of beer. In the second example, sea refers to the ocean, and wood refers to what the object is made out of. When reading this word in context, we can conclude that it is a ship they are talking about. In my third example ocean simply means ocean, and travelers refers to what the people are doing on the ocean; traveling! So, we can deduce from this kenning that they are sailors, who are aboard the “sea-wood”, drinking beer from their “ale-cups”.
3.Anglo-Saxon culture did have an effect on old english writing during the era Beowulf was written. Anglo-Saxons were basically vikings. They were a Germanic tribe that were led by chieftains who had earned their respect from the warriors that followed them. In Beowulf it has a large viking-battle-like theme to it, with a lot of imagery tied into it as well. Anglo-Saxon's also used their own type of kenning to describe things that they did not have a word for, or just as a way of slang. For instance, women could be called "cup-bearers" or "peace-weavers" because they served porridge-like food and could end feuds or squabbles with their mediation. It is easy to see how this affected the way Beowulf was written.
Source: Delahoyde, Michael. "Anglo-Saxon Culture." Washington State University - Pullman, Washington. Washington State University. Web. 18 Dec. 2011.
Stephen Burrill
12.19.2011
Beowulf and Chaucer assignment
CE. The Pardoner’s tale ultimately displays a great amount of irony both within the Pardoner himself and the story he tells. The Pardoner is ironic because he preaches against greed and faultiness but he himself is a greedy drunk man who is looking to scam people of money. The Pardoner is also ironic because he believes that he can pardon people form sin, but any devout Christian knows that only God can pardon someone from their mistakes. The Pardoner is also ironic because he says “radix malorum est cupiditas” which means: greed is the root of all evil. The Pardoner considers himself to be a divine holy figure, but he is in fact greedy, which means that, by his standards, he is evil. The Pardoner also preaches against being greedy, but after he tells the people his story he asks for indulgences.
During the story there were many ironic instances that displayed the Pardoner’s own persona. The fact that the three men are trying to avenge death is ironic because they themselves aren’t good people, they aren’t trying to get rid of death for the good of the public, and they simply want to get rid of death so they don’t die. It is also ironic that the men are trying to kill death, because death cannot be defeated; death is inevitable. The story is also ironic because they went out with the intent of doing a good deed, but when it was all said in done they were defeated by greed and ended up all succumbing to death.
The irony of the Pardoner’s persona compliments the story for many reasons. For one, the Pardoner is similar to the three men because like them he is fake and doing good for all the wrong reasons. He is pardoning people of their sins so he can get money and make a profit. The three men are trying to kill death so they don’t have to die. The Pardoner and the three men were also similar because they were all drunks who took advantage of people. In the story the two men plotted against the youngest person and ended up killing him so they could garner the treasure. The Pardoner is taking money from people while he is telling the story, thus taking advantage of people.
Chaucer’s tone is echoed through the juxtaposition of the Pardoner’s story and personality because Chaucer is almost mocking the stupidity of the three men and how clueless they were. Chaucer is also mocking the Pardoner because he’s indirectly portraying the Pardoner as a foolish idiot who, while telling the story, is basically describing himself. As a whole, this juxtaposition shows Chaucer’s displeasure with both the people and Church of his time. Chaucer clearly believes that sin and evil has manifested throughout the world and that there is no escaping sin. Chaucer also proves his dislike for the Church, because at this time the Church was filled with fake, troublesome leaders looking to scam the followers of the Church. This juxtaposition created by Chaucer was aimed to bring to light the spiraling mess that was occurring between the Church and its people.
G1. This triptych was painted by Hieronymous Bosch in the 1500’s and depicts how mankind has succumbed to sin over the years. In the first image of the triptych the depiction is of Adam and Eve, when mankind was first set on Earth. It seems as if God is in between Adam and Eve. The background seems to have animals that are calm and prosperous. In the second photo there seems to be complete mayhem, everyone seems to be having a good time, but its busy and there is obviously a considerably larger amount of people in the picture. All the men and women are naked, and it seems as if mankind is heading down the wrong path. In the final photo on the right, Hell is depicted. There are a lot of dark colors, and many dead people lying on the ground. Fire is in the picture as well, symbolizing complete destruction. Mankind has been destroyed by sin.
Stephen Burrill
12.19.2011
Beowulf and Chaucer assignment
G2. Chaucer: So Pardoner, what do you think of this picture?
Pardoner: It seems pretty dismal, rather depressing.
Chaucer: It’s sad that the world had to come to this point; people just couldn’t resist sin.
Pardoner: It seems as if sin has taken over the world, I knew it would at some point.
Chaucer: Yeah, it has probably because of fake religious figures like you.
Pardoner: Sin was bound to take over the world; at least I have a chance to make a lot in indulgences.
Chaucer: Sin has taken over the world because so called “religious figures” like you have corrupted the Church.
Pardoner: How is that true? All I have done is given great advice, and asked for a little in return.
Chaucer: People like you have corrupted the Church, for crying out loud you’re a drunk. You can’t call yourself a religious figure!
Pardoner: Well people are stupid enough to believe my every word, that’s not my fault.
Chaucer: The people of this time are ridiculous; you guys are all going to hell!
Pardoner: I don’t believe so; if you feel that way I could forgive you in return for an indulgence?
Chaucer: I will never rely on you to provide me with religious stability; you are such a fake.
Pardoner: Okay then, get out of my Church.
Chaucer: This is hell itself! Goodbye.
CE) Juxtaposing the Pardoner’s story and personality, Geoffrey Chaucer, in The Canterbury Tales, employs deathly personification, sacred irony, and an arrogant tone to elucidate how one’s greed can lead to their “death”.
Throughout his tale, the Pardoner can be identified speaking with an arrogant tone. The Pardoner comes across the reader as being strange and conceited. The tale is the Pardoner’s explanation of why one should share their wealth and the consequences that follow greed. While the Pardoner tells his tale, however, the Pardoner is found to be very arrogant, claiming that “gifts” will earn one his full pardon. The Pardoner is also very demanding, ordering people who seek pardons to “bow down [their] heads before this holy bull”. The antics of the Pardoner prove to be very egotistical, as he only wants things to be done for the betterment of himself.
While holding an arrogant tone, the Pardoner’s actions is also sought to be undeniably ironic. A Pardoner is known to work in the church, thus they are not allowed to marry (during the Medieval times specifically). However, in the General Prologue of the Pardoner, the Pardoner was singing “‘come hither, love, to me’”. Ironic? Indeed it is. Why is a church official singing, more specifically, thinking about being in love? The General Prologue proved to be just a sample of the Pardoner’s odd behavior. The Pardoner’s tale furthermore dictates how greed can lead to one’s demise. And the irony in the Pardoner’s tale; The Pardoner claimed that that only way for one to receive his “full pardon” was to give him a “gift” as in “gold and silver”, “brooches, spoons or rings”, or “wool”. The specific requirements in order to obtain a pardon are found to be ironic due to the tale revolving around the idea that greed would lead to consequences.
The Pardoner’s arrogant tone fuses with the sacred irony to reinforce the deathly personification. Death plays an indirect role in the Pardoner’s tale. The audience never once meets the character Death in the tale. Nonetheless, the three men in the Pardoner’s tale do. Death is portrayed as an “unseen thief” and carries a “spear he clove his heart in two.” Death is personified by Chaucer to emphasize the theme of the Pardoner’s tale. After the three men meet Death, Chaucer creates the sense that Death is always lurking and waiting to strike.
Geoffrey Chaucer employs deathly personification, sacred irony, and an arrogant tone to emphasize the theme of the Pardoner’s tale how one’s greed can lead to their “death”. By reading the Pardoner’s tale, one would be able to dissect that Chaucer was a big critic of the hypocrisy of the acts of church officials. Chaucer successfully portrays the Pardoner into the controversial character that he was meant to be.
Part G
1. In the left panel, God is introducing Adam and Eve to each other. The background appears to be serene and tranquil. Animals roam everywhere and flourish with a healthy environment. The center panel marks a time of prosperity in the human race. Houses can be seen in the background and there are animals that are being ridden for entertainment. However, resources that seemed plentiful in the left panel seem to be dwindling. The right panel depicts the spread of death among the human race. This panel reinforces the Pardoner’s belief of how greed leads to death.
2. Pardoner: Look at that.
Chaucer: Look at what?
Pardoner: I was correct the whole time. Greed will inevitably lead to death.
Chaucer: I now understand. We are all doomed for. The human race believed they owned everything. Now, the other forms of life are getting their revenge.
Pardoner: Exactly as I predicted. Greed can overtake a whole society and burn it down to nothing. The human race should have taken heed to my advice.
Chaucer: It seems as if our time has come. Death will surely be here any second.
Stacie Linfield
The Canterbury Tales
1.Chaucer had many "pilgrims" with him, three of them being the Squire, the Doctor of Medicine, and the Merchant. The Squire is a young, single man with a very joyous personality. He likes to sing, draw, and dance, and has a child-like spriteliness. Chaucer portrays him as the picture of innocence and youth, comparing him to "fresh-cut flowers" and "the month of May". The Squire has a lot of energy and is "wondrously active", further supporting his youth and great health. Chaucer essentially makes the Squire the well-rounded individual who does a little bit of everything, while still having a very likable personality.
The Doctor of Medicine (physician) was characterized as a very intelligent "pilgrim". He diagnosed and treated his patients based on astrological signs and natural science. He was not formally trained in medicine because he was trained in astronomy, yet he was still very successful at what he did. He was an excellent apothecary (pharmacist) and whatever remedy he prescribed to his patients worked. He is described as not eating too much food, and as not being too keen on the Bible. He dressed in very royal colors, but he was a stickler with his money. He loved his money very much and did not spend too much of it. The physician is basically portrayed as the crude intelligence of the group, but not very sociable. He seems like an introvert, with a tendency to be greedy.
The Merchant focusses a lot of what he talks about on money and success. He does not mention any times where he had been a failure or anything of that sort, and focusses on the times when he had won, not lost. I think he is self-conscious about losing and not comfortable with that idea. He has the mind-frame where he can't be the loser, but always the winner. He almost puts himself on a high pedestal by saying that he does not know of anyone in debt, subtly saying that he has no poor friends. Although he is considered worthy, Chaucer does not consider him notable. He says at the end of the Merchant's description that "to tell the truth, his name I can't recall".
2.In the Canterbury Tales Rap, there are 3 men rapping the prologue of the story. The first man is wearing a black t-shirt and a gray-blue beach hat. The second man is wearing a tan, white, and black, vertically-striped, button-down shirt with a slightly tilted, tan baseball hat. The third man is wearing a red t-shirt and sunglasses.
3.The narrator has what sounds to me to be a German accent, which is probably deliberate because of the Germanic origin of Beowulf. After listening to it a few times, I can not really tell what it is that he is saying, but I know it is supposed to be the prologue. All of the words kind of flow together, and I have a hard time distinguishing when they separate and when the sentences end. I feel like their pronunciation and accent are dead on, but to me their emphasis of the words is hard to distinguish.
Stacie Linfield
The Canterbury Tales
4.Comparing the Pardoner's characteristics to the morals in his tale, he ironically contradicts himself by invoking insight to the repercussions of greed when he, himself, indulges in his desire to gain silver, wear lavish attire, and collect Roman treasures. The Pardoner is depicted by Chaucer as a man who had a lovely singing voice and would use it to his advantage to gain money. He would sing whenever near a crowd in hopes of gaining some silver and adoration from the crowd. It is also noted in the text that he had found some "relics" in the countryside which eventually lead to him earning a substantial amount of money. Based on this it seems that he collects money to have it, yet does not spend it for fear of losing it. Then again, it does seem that he splurges the money he has on lavish clothing.
When the pardoner's attire is described it appears to me that he is wearing rich, expensive clothing. His cap is said to have a "fine Veronica" sewn to it, which is an image of Jesus. This was considered to be almost noble back then, so the Pardoner is opening flaunting what kind of money he possesses. He also had a fine riding hood in his possession, but he was not wearing it on this occasion. Riding hoods could be considered fine and almost a luxury, and the Pardoner had one carelessly stuffed away in a bag just because he had one. This may not seem like an intense amount of greed, but it is greed nonetheless. Among his collections of clothing and money, he had a knapsack dedicated to his Roman treasures.
As a Pardoner, he is supposed to essentially be a "giver". In his knapsack he has "pardons brought from Rome", yet he does not give or share them with the other people on this journey. This adds to the irony of his tale because he has an obsession with taking and having. He wants to get money and wear expensive clothes and be the center of attention, when his job is supposed to be charity, not centered on him but others. He is in love with himself in such a way that we find him pardoning himself instead of others like he is supposed to be. The Pardoner is a web of irony and hypocrisy against his own knowledge, which is ironic within itself.
Stacie Linfield
The Canterbury Tales
5.In The Garden of Earthly Delight there are 3 things being depicted. In the first panel is the Garden of Eden. In it there is Adam and Eve and a lot of animals all living together peacefully. The animals are drinking from the river together, playing with one another, and basically enjoying each other's company without any evil thoughts or intentions. There is not a single depiction of violence in this frame. In the second frame is a point in time after Adam and Eve were kicked out of the Garden of Eden. In this one there is a happy aura and a strong depiction of greed. All of the people are indulging in whatever they want, whether it be food, playing, or sex. Something I notice about this frame is that almost all of the women have either an apple or a strawberry with them, which I believe is supposed to represent original sin (Eve eating the apple in Eden). I also notice that all 7 mortal sins are present in this panel, like greed, envy, sloth, etc. All of this joyous chaos I believe is supposed to represent the greed of humans and their inner "Id" telling them to indulge in every want and desire they have. In the last frame of this picture is a scene of human suffering and pain. There are very dark, menacing colors incorporated into this that give it a definite feel of the agony and misery present, as well as slight allusions of industrialization in the far back. Every person and creature is being harmed or damned in some way, making this panel almost a scene from hell. Overall, I think that the painter's intentions were to depict the trail of sin and human suffering up to the damnation of mankind in the last panel.
Chaucer- What do you think of The Garden of Earthly Delights?
Pardoner- I think it represents how greed and temptation leads people astray and ultimately to death.
Chaucer- Please explain
P- Well, take the first panel. Adam and Eve are in the Garden of Eden, and all around them is peace and love. There is, however, a source of temptation in the garden; an apple tree. God, who is holding Eve's hand, tells them that they can have whatever they want in the garden, except for apples from that tree. It is the temptation of something that they can not have that leads them astray, for they eat the apple and are then kicked out of the garden.
C- Alright, I see how that applies to the first panel, but what about the second?
P- In the second panel is the world outside of the Garden of Eden. There is temptation everywhere, and everyone is indulging in it. People have no thought in any of their actions now and they just do whatever they please. They let their greed take control of their actions and they enjoy everything around them. This leads them astray from higher pursuits, like goodness and moderation. They are unable to control any of their actions and have no boundaries.
C- So in the first and second it is now clear, and I think that the third is pretty obvious in this context, don't you agree?
P- Yes I do. In the third panel it is very obvious the sort of situation all beings are led to after they live their lives indulging in whatever they please. It is because of their greediness that they have met an unfortunate afterlife, a life where they are damned to tortures unimaginable. Greed is a major mortal sin that leads people off the path they are meant to follow, damning them in the afterlife. In my tale about the 3 men and the gold, it is their thoughtless actions from greed that allow them to find death, just as in the lives of the people in The Garden of Earthly Delights indulge in their greed to only be damned to an afterlife of misery.
Kim Lynch
Block- D
B1. A caesura is a complete pause somewhere in the middle of a verse or poem. An example of a caesura in Beowulf would be the line, “ice-flecked, outbound, atheling's barge: there laid they down their darling lord.”The colon in the middle of the sentence represents how the reader will pause before they continue to read the passage. Beowulf uses caesura in order to value the important parts of the passage.
B2. Kenning is usually compound expression used in place of a name or noun. Few examples of kenning would be the word “battle-sweat” which means blood. The word “battle-gear” replaces the word body armor, but still shows the importance of body armor. Another example would be the word “whale-road” takes the place of the sea. Beowulf frequently puts kennings in the passage to show the importance of expressions.
B3. Beowulf is combined with the values of Anglo-Saxon and the rise of Christianity. Anglo-Saxon came up with Old English and Beowulf is in Old English, so Beowulf was influenced by Anglo-Saxon. Most of Beowulf takes a big role of God and their beliefs which corresponds with the rise of Christianity. By the battles and receiving honor of people shows how Beowulf was influenced by Anglo-Saxon’s values.
B1. “No ship have I known so nobly dight
with weapons of war and weeds of battle,
with breastplate and blade: on his bosom lay
a heaped hoard that hence should go
far o'er the flood with him floating away. “
A caesura is a complete break in a line of poetry, dictated by normal means of speech rather than rhythm or meter. The passage above is an ideal example of caesura; if one reads the passage aloud, they will invariably note a necessary stop at the colon. At this place, the sentence completely switches and goes in a different direction, without any sort of transition. Chaucer writes two distinctly different sentences, each with separate subjects and verbs, yet does not provide a flow from one idea to the next. The pause is abrupt and complete, right in the middle of a line .
B2. Originally out of necessity, but creating an obscure sort of beauty today, the use of kenning combines two words to replace another noun. The writers of Beowulf used these word combinations frequently to describe things his middle English vocabulary did not have a precise word for. In Chapter II, he refers to Grendel as the “slayer-of souls”. Rather than calling him a murderer, he implies that he not only physically killed people, but also ruined their souls. In Chapter III, he says that Hygelac traveled far over the “swan-road”, which is interpreted as a river. He later says that the warriors’ leader unlocked his “word-hoard” (Chapter IV) to respond to the guard, as a much more interesting way to say “vocabulary”.
B3. At the beginning of the first millennia, the Anglo-Saxons were pagan warriors who coveted the qualities of honor, bravery, and status. However, at the end of the sixth century, these warriors experienced a large-scale conversion to Christianity. (SparkNotes Editors) These Christian ideas became infused with the Anglo-Saxon culture of Kings, kinship, and honor to create the unique amalgamation of values represented in Beowulf (Kefor). The concept that, “the strongest ties in Anglo-Saxon society were to kin and lord...A kingdom was only as strong as its war-leader king,” (Ross) is explicitly displayed several times in Beowulf: “To him an heir was afterward born,/ a son in his halls, who heaven sent/to favor the folk, feeling their woe/ that erst they had lacked an earl for leader/so long a while” Having strong lineage and leaders being so important to the Anglo-Saxons, they thank God for such a blessing. This gratitude is again when the valiant Anglo-Saxon’s land “...with armor clashing/and gear of battle: God they thanked/for passing in peace o’er the paths of the sea.” The Kings in Anglo-Saxon society were highly coveted and demanded, “bravery and loyalty from their warriors, whom they repay with treasures won in war” (SparkNotes Editors). The great king Hrothgar received this and was “given such glory of war,/ such honor of combat, that all his kin/ obeyed him gladly till great grew his band/of youthful comrades.” When Beowulf is introduced, he embodies the characteristics of a noble warrior seeking honor, and tells the guard that Grendel, the “monster cruel, be mine to quell/in single battle!..but with gripe alone/ must I front the fiend and fight for life,/ foe against foe...”
Kefor, Todd. “Values in Anglo-Saxon Society.” AP English Literature Class. Norton High School, Norton. 15 Sept. 2011. Lecture.
Ross, David. "Anglo-Saxon Life." n.d. Britain Express. Web. 15 Dec. 2011.
SparkNotes Editors. “SparkNote on Beowulf.” SparkNotes.com. SparkNotes LLC. 2003. Web. 2 Dec. 2011.
Kim Lynch
Block- D
CA: One of the characters in The Canterbury Tales would be the Knight. Chaucer characterized him as a worthy and adventurous man. He was always polite, trustworthy and never spoke rudely about anyone. Chaucer characterized him as the “parfit gentil knyght.” Even though he was polite, he’s clothes were dull and didn’t show that he was royalty or sophisticated.
Chaucer characterized the Miller as a brave and muscular man. He wore a shield and sword by his side showing he was ready to fight at any moment. The Miller had a red beard and a wart on his nose. His appearance was to dress in a white coat and blue hood and always carrying around bagpipes. He always had something to say and a lasciviousness man.
The Parson was a good man of religion. He was always generous and always willing to give to the poor. Chaucer characterized him as the example to every man. Every time he had to teach, he made sure he was always kind and careful of what to say. The Parson is defined as a fine priest.
CB: The clothing of the group rapping is modern clothing that people would wear on a daily basis. These men are just everyday men that wore their traditional clothing. One was wearing a shirt with the Dr. Pepper logo, one was wearing his high school club shirt and the other was wearing a regular brown and tan stripped shirt.
CD: The narrator’s voice seems more calm and sophisticated. The voice isn’t dull or uninteresting. It shows true characteristics of how people used to talk. The accent seems to show the true aspect the passage. By reading the passage in Middle English gives the listener more vivid and understanding of the true meaning of the passage.
Kim Lynch
Block-D
CE: In the tale, “The Pardoner’s Tale”, Chaucer employs painful irony, specific tone and didactic diction in order to show how one interacts with a complicated situation that could lead to disaster.
The Pardoner’s Tale is painfully ironic in relations of the Pardoner’s persona and role mostly because the three drunken men were trying to kill death even though that’s impossible to do, “death shall be dead if we find where he went.” Death is something that happens in life and killing it would be ironic because killing death is basically how death overcomes others. So by killing death, death is still happening. Another example of irony through death would be when the three men try to kill each other over the treasure. At the beginning they tried to kill death but towards the end death killed them.
Throughout the tale, Chaucer uses tone to bring out the Pardoner’s story and personality. By expressing the tone, it helps exposing the main purpose of the story and Pardoner’s personality. The personality would be more towards greedy because of the conflict between the three men over the treasure. If the old man never said death was there, then finding the treasure wouldn’t have happened causing the deaths of three men because of their selfish aspects over treasure.
Chaucer shows the importance of religion and morals through the way he writes. By using the ideas of the church, shows that religion is important to Chaucer. He expresses it and feels like his tales should show moral lessons. Throughout the Pardoner’s tale, he feels that the moral of the story is the most important aspect of the whole tale. The moral of this tale would be greedy can cause evil within people’s lives.
G: Each scene depicts certain aspects of how our world goes around. The first panel depicts when God is presenting Adam and Eve and the pure of how society used to be. The center panel depicts how people are revealed with innocence and absorb joy in their life. The last panel shows that evil has overcome them and they made their world collapse.
2: As Chaucer and Pardoner look at “The Garden Earthly Delights”, they come across on how they feel on how the last panel was created. Chaucer saying, “This is what happens when evil takes over one’s life. It causes disaster towards society. “As Pardoner replies quickly, “This only happened because certain people didn’t get what they wanted.” Chaucer comes across an idea saying, ”That doesn’t mean being greedy should cause harm to others, evil taking over shows that not only is it harming yourself but also causing people around you to devastation.” Pardoner refuses to give in Chaucer’s idea by expressing, ‘’But if you want something, you need to fight for it.” With Chaucer’s last thoughts and concluded, “Sometimes when evil comes about, you need to let go what you wanted and see how it’s effecting others around you.”
CA. In the Prioress’s introduction, Chaucer characterizes the nun to be genial and affectionate. Known as Madam Eglantine, she had a modest smile and was always gracious and pleasant. She cared for deeply for all creatures, whether human, dog, or even mouse, and wept for their sufferings. She was educated well, spoke French, and had wonderfully proper manners. To illuminate her perfect manners, Chaucer details a generally messy activity- her eating ability- and tells how she “never lets morsels from her lips fall,/ Nor dipped her fingers deep in sauce”. Her face resembled her tenderness, with “eyes grey as glass”, a soft red mouth and a “broad” forehead. The nun is a romantic, and wears a somewhat controversial brooch with the Latin phrase “Amor vincit omnia”, or “love conquers everything”.
Chaucer characterizes the Monk in a way that one would likely not expect. The monk is characterized as a “manly man” who owns greyhounds and hunts. He wears sleeves made of fur, rather than a typical monk robe. However, he is still known of be “one of the finest” monks who has helped to modernize his pursuits. Letting the old ways “slowly pace” and bringing in
“new-world manners”, this monk has a philosophy that it is useless to waste away reading in a cell when he could be out helping the people with his own hands. Chaucer notes that the Monk is bald and fat and loves a “fat swan” best.
The Miller is characterized to be relatively intimidating in this bunch. He is described as a large man, “Hardy, big and brawn and big of bone”. He is a prize wrestler and could lift “each door from its hinges, that easy, / Or break it through, by running, with his head.” His beard is red, which Chaucer likens to a fox, rather than a more docile animal. He has a wart, but not nearly as many as the summoner. Many of the men carry small knives, but the Miller carries a full out sword. Chaucer mentions that he knew some poetry, which does not seem to fit his character until Chaucer adds that it is “mostly all of sin and obscenity”. On this adventure, he is wearing a blue hood and white coat and is playing the bagpipe.
CB: One man wears a red Dr. Pepper shirt and sun glasses. The second wears a swanky striped shirt and a crooked baseball cap. The third man wears a black shirt advertising his High School Japanese club and a painfully dorky hat.
CD: I’m not going to lie, I can barely understand a word that this man is saying. He has a very melodic voice and a genuine British accent, but everything he says just mushes together. His emphasis helps be determine when sentences/phrases begin, but it not being clear English, I find it hard to decipher where one word ends and another start. I really only caught a few words like “march hath perced “breath inspired” “especially from” “the holy blissful martyr”
Michelle Carignan
Beowulf
1. What is a caesura? Find an example of a caesura from the text and defend your selection (paragraph).
Caesura is a grammatical pause or break in a line of poetry usually near the middle of the line. A caesura is usually dictated by sense or natural speech rhythm rather than by metrics. An example of caesura occurs where the colon lays in the following excerpt:
“No ship have I known so nobly dight
with weapons of war and weeds of battle,
with breastplate and blade: on his bosom lay
a heaped hoard that hence should go
far o'er the flood with him floating away.”
This is caesura because the natural rhythm of he poem is broken. This is due to a grammatical pause in the middle of the line, making this an example of caesura.
B2. What is kenning? Find 3 examples of kenning and defend your selections (paragraph).
Kenning is a figurative (usually compound expression) used in place of a name or noun, especially in Old English and Old Norse poetry. Specifically in Beowulf, kenning is characterized by two words joined by a hyphen. For example, the poem Beowulf talks about “evil-spirits”, or in modern English, these may be called demons. The same rational goes for “ocean-travellers” or in today’s times, a seamen, and “ill-doer” which could potentially mean convict or criminal, or even something less harsh such as a trouble maker.
B3. Beowulf is indicative of Old English and is infused with a curious blend of the traditions and values of Anglo-Saxon culture and the rise of Christianity. Do a bit of research regarding the Anglo-Saxons. Quote and discuss passages from the text that represent this unique dynamic. Use MLA format to cite your sources.
Th Anglo-Saxons were the Germanic people who inhabited Britain around the fifth and eleventh centuries. Old English is the name that scholars gave to the language that the Anglo-Saxons spoke. As a group, they valued the physical world (nature), warriors, loyalty, the tribe, and their leaders. For most, the Anglo-saxons were considered pagans, with the majority of their holidays centered around nature and the Earth. However, as Christianity started to have an influence on them, their ways were changed. These values and ways of life are highlighted throughout Beowulf.
WriteWork contributors. "Anglo-Saxon Values in Beowulf" WriteWork.com., 15 December, 2006. Web. 16 Dec. 2011.
or example, when Beowulf said "Of force in fight no feebler I count me,
in grim war-deeds, than Grendel deems him.”; it highlights the Anglo-Saxons pride in war. In some ways, they worship their war heroes. Another value held by the Anglo-Saxons was their pride and honor. In the opening of Beowulf, their immense pride in honor is established through the following quote: “shall an earl have honor in every clan.” In general, the unique dynamic of the Anglo-Saxon life was dictated by their value in honor and war.
Michelle Carignan Part 1
Canterbury Tales
CA:
In the prologue, Chaucer introduces each of the characters in a brief manner. The Knight is the first to be introduced. Chaucer characterizes him through the knight’s love of chivalry, truth, honor, freedom and courtesy. In this story, the knight holds a high place of honor. This is known from the battles he has won, and is inferred through the history we know about the middle ages. He also alludes to the fact that the knight has committed something that is atypical from his image.
From Chaucer’s rather short description The Cook, the reader learns that he is a well qualified chef. However, he has an open sore on his shin. The author makes it seem as though this is something to pity him for and empathize with him.
The Merchant seems like any merchant of Chaucer’s times. If anything, he seems more honest and knowledgeable than the average merchant. But since he is so typical, the narrator cannot even remember his name. The merchant is not a memorable member of the pilgrimage.
CB:
One of he MC’s in this dope rap included a red Dr. Pepper shirt with ridiculous shades. There is a goofy guy in a plaid fisherman‘s hat. And then finally, there is a bald dude with a stripped button up shirt.
CD:
The narrator’s voice sounds like he had a subdued German accent. He also sounds like he is setting up some kind of scene in a poetic manner. However, this does not help me decodethe passage at all, he is speaking another language, Old English.
CE:
This is painfully ironic because the Pardoner is the one who is supposed to forgive your sins on the behalf of God. In the generic Christian faith, God does not forgive your sins for a price; He just does because he is All Forgiving. The ironic part comes into play when the Pardoner asks for money for a gift given to humankind from God. I think that this compliments the irony because the Pardoner is perceived as a skewed man because of the way he twists religion. Through this tale, I think that Chaucer is criticizing religion in his society. Chaucer is aware of the flawed and twisted ways that people worship God because of the church. He is not agreeing with the dynamic between the societal church and pure faith.
Part G:
1. As you view the panel from left to right, you see an evolution of sins, in a sense. To the far left, there is the meeting of Adam and Eve. In the center, there is Earth after the Original Sin has been committed with an abundance of the Forbidden Fruit. This represents mankind and their role on Earth. Then, to the far right, there is a depiction of hell and the consequences of sin.
2. [Conversation between the Pardoner and Chaucer.]
Pardoner: My dear friend Chaucer, have you seen that blasphemous painting by Bosch?
Chaucer: Yes I have! I think it is just superb!
Pardoner: What? You cannot be serious.
Chaucer: Well, I most certainly am. He shows so well the effects of the Original sin. Everyone is a sinner. No one can be exempt from sins, most must end up in hell.
Pardoner: But people are forgiven for their sins. That is why I am here, to pardon people from their sins.
B1. Caesura is a rhetorical break in the flow of sound in the middle of a line or verse. In Beowulf, caesuras can be found all throughout it. One caesura is found in line23 “should war draw nigh, liegemen loyal: by lauded deeds shall an earl have honor in every clan.” The colon serves as the pause in the line, making this an example as a caesura. It indicates the reader to stop at the moment before continuing with the rest of the line. Since the pause occurs within the line, it must serve as some importance, or else it wouldn’t be present within the line.
B2. A kenning is a figurative expression used in place of a name or noun which usually has a metaphorical meaning. The “sea-wood” is an example of kenning, because it replaces “ship” with two separate words that are relevant to a ship. “Relict-of-flies” Is another example of kenning; it is figuratively referring to a sword. A kenning doesn’t always have to be seen by having two words that are hyphenated; “storm of swords” is considered an example of kenning. This example is serving to describe battle; it’s a kenning because it replaces a description with a figurative expression, as do the other examples.
B3. In Anglo-Saxon culture, to be a hero was to be a warrior. A hero had to be strong, intelligent, and courageous. Strength and physical appearance are essential to the Anglo-Saxon warrior. They had to be willing to face any odds, and fight to the death for their people. Beowulf is a great example of an Anglo-Saxon hero. Beowulf is defined as “the wanderer,” and “the dream of the rood.” Beowulf is described as having the strength of “thirty men”, and everyone sees him as a mighty hero saying "I have never seen a mightier warrior on earth than is one of you, a man in battle-dress" (Beowulf, 7). This portrays the characteristic of strength, which is a very important characteristic of heroes in Anglo-Saxon culture. But strength alone is not enough to define a hero, courage must be included. At one point Beowulf says “Fate often saves an undoomed man when his courage is good" (Beowulf , 12), showing the importance of courage on the culture. Christianity is part of the Anglo-Saxon culture; it replaced the indigenous religion of the English. So Beowulf came to be told by a Christian poet. The poet often had trouble attributing Christian thoughts and motives to the characters because the characters frequently behave in un-Christian ways.
Algoe, Sara. "Anglo-Saxon History." Sara Algoe on HubPages. Web. 18 Dec. 2011. .
Emily Christy
Period A
B1. A caesura (derived from the Latin caesura, meaning "to cut") is a pause or interruption in poetry or music. There are many of them within Beowulf. An example of caesura is “and ne'er could the prince- approach his throne” (10). This is an example because he is giving a pause or break between the word price and approach. He does this because it gives the reader a moment to process but also to give emphasis on the next thing.
B2. A kenning is a compound expression in Old English and Old Norse poetry with metaphorical meaning. Based on the reading there are quite a few of these. An example of one would be “people-king” (5) meaning King. Even “ice-flecked” (6) meaning icy waters, “whale-path” (5) meaning an ocean because that is how a whale travels, or “ring-graced queen” (23) means either rich/wealthy or high ranked. Because it is old English it is hard to figure out some of the words, but you can assume that is what they mean.
B3. In Christianity and Angelo-Saxon beliefs there is life after death. This can play a huge part because when Beowulf goes to kill the dragon, he is repenting his sin. In which sin is a bad thing. In Pagan/ Angelo-Saxon belief there is a lot of natural belief, “whale-path”, “waves were churning sea with sand” all nature. Also the strength of the warrior is a great point, “His strength he trusted, hand-gripe of might”. Meaning that he trusted in himself that he could kill Grendel’s mother. There is also talk of “Cain” which is a biblical reference. In which Grendel the evil man/monster is described in the story. Both Beowulf and Hrothgar both mention Christian beliefs because it is on the rise. Instead of only Angelo-Saxon beliefs.
Wood, Katelyn. "The Anglo-Saxons and Beowulf." Upload & Share PowerPoint Presentations\
and Documents. SlideShare, 2011. Web. 18 Dec. 2011.
.
CA. The first pilgrim introduced is the Knight, who is the teller of the first tale. The Knight is one of the pilgrims with the highest social rank, due to the fact that the social rank decreases with every new pilgrim introduced. He has participated in no less than fifteen of the great crusades of his era, “At mortal batailles hadde he been fifteen (61).” The Knight embodies four main qualities: love of ideals, impressive military career, gentle manner, and his dress. The narrator employs the Knight’s love of ideals by the words expressed, such as “chivalrie”, “trouth”, “honour”, “freedom”, and “curteisie (45-46).” The Knight has an impressive military career, he has fought in the Crusades. In which is when the Europeans traveled by sea to non-Christian lands in attempt to convert cultures by the force of their swords. He has also battled the Muslims in Egypt, Spain, and Turkey; while also fighting in formal duels. The Knight wears a tunic that is made of coarse cloth, and his coat of mail is rust-stained, because he has recently returned from an expedition. The Knight is the essence of chivalry, honor, and courage while he is a man who loves truth, freedom, and honor.
The Pardoner has blonde hair that reaches down to his shoulders, “This Pardoner hadde heer as yellow as wex….and therwith he his shuldres overspradde (677-680).” He has shiny eyes, a voice that sounded like a goat, and a smooth face with no beard. The Pardoner is part of the immoral lower class as seeing as he is part of the last group of pilgrims to be introduced. He is a highly untrustworthy character who openly discusses his false actions of selling fake relics to others. He carries the tools of trade with him to Canterbury, his sack of false relics; which includes a brass cross filled with stones “He hadde a croys of latoun ful of stones(701)”, to make it seem as heavy as gold and a glass jar full of pig’s bones “and in a glas he hadde pigges bones. But with thise relikes, whan that he fond (702-703)”, which he passes off as saint’s relics. The Pardoner wants to cash in on religion, so he does this by selling material objects; whether it be slips of paper that promises forgiveness of sins or animal bones that people can string around their necks as charms against the devil. He is the last pilgrim and the most corrupt which is characterized by his selling of false pardons and fake relics.
The Wife of Bath is part of the middle-class group of pilgrims, making her the average position of social rank. The Wife has a bold face, somewhat deaf, and dresses tastefully. The Wife’s clothing consists of stockings that are a fine scarlet color, leather shoes that are soft, fresh, and brand new; these clothes demonstrate how wealthy she is, especially the scarlet color because it was a particularly costly dye. Her talent is being a seamstress, in which she makes stylish garmets, “hir coverchiefs ful fyne weren of ground (455).” She has been respectable throughout her life and was married in a church while being married five times, “she was worthy al hir lyve: housbonds at chirche dore she hadde fyve (461-462).”. The Wife has learned through her experiences with all of her five husbands to provide for herself. The Wife uses her body as a tool so her husband’s give her what she demands. The Wife of Bath has traveled all over the world on pilgrimages, including Jerusalem, Rome, Boulogne, Spain, and Cologne. She has seen the world and has experience in the ways of the world, in love and sex.
CB. There are three guys in this rap version of The Prologue. One guy is wearing sunglasses, a red Dr. Pepper shirt, and jeans. Another guy is wearing a black, high school Japanese club shirt, brown pants, and a blue/white hat. The last guy is wearing a brown striped button down shirt, black pants, and a white baseball cap.
CD. The narrator starts the sentences off very loud and strong, but seems to die down towards the end of the sentence; he also has an older sounding voice which adds to this. It seems as if the narrator also has an accent, making it slightly difficult to understand some of the words he is saying. He seems to pronounce his words differently by adding “y” or “e” to the end of words. If those sounds were removed and the reader looked at the prologue while the narrator was reading it, it would make it easier to decode and understand the passage and what the narrator is saying.
CE. The Pardoner’s Tale is painfully ironic because the Pardoner makes judgment against the people and the lifestyles that they practice. First is the gluttony, which he identifies as a sin so great that it caused the fall of mankind in Eden. Next, he judges drunkenness, which he thinks makes a man seem mad. Then there’s gambling, the temptation that ruins men of power and wealth. Finally he attacks swearing, in which he argues that it offends God, and places it above homicide on the list. The Pardoner is the most corrupt, and bluntly accused himself of fraud and gluttony, which are the very things he preaches against. He boasts about his corruption in attempt to sacrifice his own spiritual good to cure the sins of others. Yet, he doesn’t seem to consider his spiritual corruption a real sacrifice, since he loves the money and the comfort it brings him.
It complements the irony within the Tale itself because the Pardoner’s main theme in his prologue is “greed is the root of all evil”, his tale shows the disastrous effects of greed. This theme is ironic because his love for money is the root of his evil, although his sales depend upon the purchaser’s love of money. All the lifestyles that he listed at the beginning are all faults that he himself has displayed to other pilgrims and that he proudly possess. Even thought he is a hypocrite, he does show honesty as he makes his confession. It then becomes ironic at the end of his tale, when he requests that the pilgrims make a contribution. The Pardoner’s official role is to get men to call on God for forgiveness of their sins, yet he is unwilling to pardon and is effected by the same sins, due to his fondness of money and power.
Chaucer uses a very intriguing tone as echoed through the juxtaposition of the Pardoner’s story and personality. The Pardoner completes his tale just as he would when preaching in the villages, by displaying his false relics and asking for contributions. This act is intriguing, since he makes no acknowledgement of his hypocrisy. The Pardoner exposed himself in his prologue of his whole operation, so why would he now expect his travelers to contribute? He enjoys the challenge of telling his tale so that he can trick his audience into belief after he has explained to him is corrupt nature.
CG 1. The first panel on the far left appears to be Adam and Eve. There are two figures, a man and women that seem to be talking with a man; most likely could be Jesus or God. There are a bunch of animals roaming around, as well as trees and flowers blooming, which shows that everything is beginning to happen. All of this adds to the idea of Adam and Eve and the new beginning of the Earth.
The second panel, in the middle is the largest picture with much more movement within it. Many more people are present in this picture as well as animals, although it seems as if the animals are much more under control in this picture, as seeing they are not freely roaming around anymore. The land is changing as well, seeing as there are new structures being added that appear to be houses.
The last panel, on the far right, gives off a much different feel, which is easily seen by the dark effect it gives off. It looks as if all the people are under control, and they seem as if they are all hiding. The houses are being built out of human body pieces, and it looks like dead human bodies are just lying around. Transitioning from the different panels portrays the difference of time within each picture, and how each picture encapsulated it.
CG 2. Chaucer: What exactly is the meaning of the painting?
Pardoner: It is the difference between then and now. No matter the difference in time however, everyone has the same temptations around them. Humans are supposed to ignore the temptations, so therefore they will not sin. Temptations will always be present, and it is likely that humans will give in to the temptations. But it is their duty to ask God for forgiveness if they do end up giving in to the temptations that make them lie and sin.
Chaucer: Why is there such a difference between the first and last panel?
Pardoner: The first panel is portraying the beginning of time before there was any corruption, including temptations and sins. While the last panel is sped up in time, showing the earth as it is when corruption is present and where humans have given in to the temptations. It demonstrates what could happen if people give in to the temptations and start lying, it gives off the dark feeling which represents the corruption in the world that the people create.
Chaucer: What is going on in panel three that makes it so important for it to be the largest panel?
Pardoner: This panel represents halfway, the greatest balance. This world is does have some corruption and temptations are present, but it’s not yet too much to where the people are out of control. This is the place where the earth should thrive to be. This panel is the ideal place.
Emily Christy
Part 2 (cant fit it all, there will be a part 3)
CA. The first one I chose was the Wife of Bath. I liked her story. It was humorous too me. That she was finely dressed and cared for. But she had been married 5 times. And that’s not including when she was younger and got around. But not only that, but she also has traveled. But on this voyage she is the only female. So she does seem to get less credibility. She is clearly high ranked or well-off because she can afford nice clothes and trips to places like Jerusalem.
The next one is the Miller. He is described as a big, huge man. When I envision him he is ugly, with the wart on his big think scrunched up nose. With little red hairs growing out of it. While his beard is full of foul, and disgusting stuff. He is sinful, for he steals and is full of greed. Not to mention whoever would get into a fight with him would most likely loose due to his strength.
Finally, the Knight. The only true kind hearted unselfish person upon the pilgrimage. Even though he won many great battles and did heroic and chivalrous deeds, he was dressed but in simple cloth; a tunic. He saved and killed many people, but never got angry and he was Christian. He cared about what he was doing and had pride in what he did. He won all battles but yet on the pilgrimage dressed lowly. Because he was a true heart that was looking for adventure. Not to rub it in the faces like the Wife of Bath.
CB. One of the guys is wearing a Dr. Pepper shirt, with jeans and sunglasses. Another (white) guy is wearing a black T-shirt with the words ___ High School, ___ Club, 2005 with a white and blue hat on and dark jeans. While the last guy (African American) is wearing a brown, white and black stripped shirt and puts on a tan hat of on, with either black or brown pants.
CD. The narrator’s voice is flows well. Most of the words in that I would pronounce differently but when he said it, it was like ohh that’s how you say it. His accent is rather strange it sounds Irish almost, maybe Scottish, I’m not quite sure. And the emphasis he puts on the words also helps like the word, “Thanne longen” (line 11) he said it louder. The only thing I would say is that he breaths heavy.
Emily Christy
Part 3 (end)
CE. Shifting from a light hearted to a depressing mood in “The Canterbury Tales”, Chaucer uses painful irony, branded tone, and belief to illustrate “For he (host) is moost envoluped in synne”.
The painful irony is that throughout his story the Pardoner is basically going against what everyone else says. He deals with some sins, because that is what everyone’s stories revolved around. A pardoner is someone who raised money for the church by offering forgiveness. If you think about it he is also a sinner. The conflict arising when the Pardoner thinks that he should get money because he believes that he can offer the Host with penance. But the Host, who he thinks was the most sinful, is not very happy. And the knight stepping in suggests for them to kiss and hug it out.
Chaucer’s dedicated tone can be described through his juxtaposition because he describes all the sins. Whether he did it purposefully you could say it goes down a list. Like the stories did starting with gluttony and working down his list. By telling the story of death and finding it, it deals with hoe he felt and how man is incompetent to God. It is echoed through his personality because basically you can’t cheat death. And Chaucer as the writer knows this and is basically writing because he feels that this is important.
Based on Chaucer’s belief we can see that religion does play a role. In the very beginning he says, “An unseen thief, called Death”, “Before he did a man some dishonor”. The devil came after the ones who sinned. And that in the end, no matter how or when, you will die. The morality plays in because at the very end of the story he talks about the morals. And within those morals he says, “Thou art so false and so unkind, alas!” changing the idea. Because even though he believes and follows God, at the end he says he is unkind. But that is his opinion.
Chaucer wrote about irony, tone, and belief to get his point across that no matter what people will sin. It is near impossible not to. And that even one day your belief for something will change or you may gain a belief.
Part G. In the first panel, there is a depiction of God with Adam and Eve. They are in the Garden of Eden. There is also an apple tree. Which in Catholicism represents the evil and sin they caused. In the second panel there is a depiction of people. Adam and Eve had reproduced but they also sinned. Everyone is eating apples from the forbidden tree. Even though it looks like they are all enjoying themselves they are really causing misery on themselves. In the final panel it is full of destruction. Parts of a human body are thrown all over the place. Fire representing Hell. Spears, daggers, monsters, even the Mona Lisa is in there. All those things are representing a bad ending and a sinful ending. For the Devil triumphed over God.
Chaucer: I see there that God gave Adam and Eve a choice.
Pardoner: Yes, and they chose the wrong one and didn’t even try to repent their sin. They just kept on eating the forbidden fruit.
Chaucer: We’ll maybe they did, try because there is life after death.
Pardoner: If they did then there wouldn’t be death and destruction and fiery pits. Now would there?
Chaucer: Even though that is there it is still the people’s choice. They chose not to do it so now they must live with the consequences.
Pardoner: Well maybe if they didn’t eat the fruit there would be no sins today.
Chaucer: There would probably be sins, just because they didn’t eat the fruit doesn’t mean one day someone else wouldn’t. There would still be corruption and sins.
Pardoner: But they could still repent them. Now people in the future will have to deal with the mess they made.
Chaucer: No matter what someone would have eaten the fruit out of temptation, as depicted in the second panel. Everyone’s doing it!
Erin Chancey
Beowulf & Chaucer 1:
B1. A Caesura is a literary term and describes a break in a line of poetry. A Caesura is usually located in the middle of a line. In Beowulf, there is an example of a Caesura on page 59; “The wise-one spake, son of Healfdene; silent were all: -- ‘Lo, so may he say who sooth and right follows ‘mid folk. Of far times mindful,’” This is an example of a caesura because it is a break in the middle of a line. The; and: indicate to the reader to stop. It becomes a Caesura because it is placed in a position where if you took it out, the line would still make sense.
B2. A Kenning is a figurative expression used in place of a noun or name. It is a conventional metaphoric name for something, usually in Old English. Beowulf is full of kennings. For example, saying “war-prince” (49), “altar-offerings” (10), and “heart-waves” (76).
B3. The Anglo Saxon social culture consisted of different tribes and they were lead by people called chieftains. Chieftains were often kings or lords. These kings earned respect by their warriors. Anglos Saxon’s lives revolved around fighting. Many of these same concepts are applied in Beowulf. “Daeghrefn fell, slain by my hand, the Hugas' champion. Nor fared he thence to the Frisian king with the booty back, and breast-adornments; but, slain in struggle, that standard-bearer fell, atheling brave. Not with blade was he slain, but his bones were broken by brawny gripe, his heart-waves stilled” (76) In this passage from Beowulf, a “champion” is being described. This can be related to the Anglo Saxons since they were known as being warriors and warriors can also be considered champions when they are successful in their fights. Also a blade is mentioned, and blades symbolize strength and fighting.
Erin Chancey
Beowulf and Chaucer 2:
CA. The Pardoner is a very noble man. He is from Rouncival but has come from Rome. He sings with the Summoner and gets paid to do so at church. He has long yellow hair, shiny eyes, and no beard. His job is to deliver pardons from Rome. He carries many things with him though that seems to not be true; True Lady’s Veil, Saint Peter’s Sail, a cross with stones, and Pig Bones. He makes more money than the Parson in one day by singing. The Wife of Bath is a woman from Bath or somewhere close to it. She is deaf, gap toothed, and has rosy cheeks. She is the best at making clothes and makes very good headdresses. Many weigh up to 10 pounds. She has red stockings and wears skirts around her big butt. Although she is deaf she can laugh and chat with everyone and knows a lot about love. She has travelled to Jerusalem 3 times and has also been to Rome, Boulogne, Santiago, Cologne, and Spain. And although she was always respectably married in a church, she has had 5 husbands. The Franklin is an old man because of his white beard and has a sanguine temperament. He is a householder and always has a plethora of wine, food, pies, fish and flesh stocked in his house depending on the season. He has also been a sheriff and a tax auditor at some point. He was the “lord” at county sessions, and Epicurus’ son so he lived a good life. His opinions were genuine and perfect and right and happy. He dipped his morning bread in wine, and in his own county, he was known as Saint Julian.
CB. In the Canterbury Tales Rap, there were 3 guys. One of them had a black t-shirt on with the words “Merkholl Marshall? or Marykxoll? (Something like that) High School Japanese Club 2005” written on it in white letters. He was also wearing a white, blue, and orange plaid hat, and black pants. The second guy was wearing a tan hat and a brown plaid long sleeve button down with a black t-shirt underneath it with dark jeans. The second guy was wearing normal clothes. (Sunglasses, a red dr. pepper shirt, and jeans.)
CD. The narrator has a deep voice, and the accent seems a bit strange. Although I cannot understand what he is saying, I can see why so many people love and appreciate Middle English. It flows unlike our English and it doesn’t have the harsh pronunciations of words like we do. You can hear the fluidity of it and the s’s are dragged out so there is a lot of “sssssss” at the ends of lines.
Erin Chancey
Beowulf and Chaucer 3:
CE. The Pardoner’s tale is very ironic compared to his role and persona in his prologue. In his prologue he introduces himself as the Pardoner and about his theme “Radix malorum est cupiditas” which is a biblical quote that means “greed is the root of all evils in Latin. He then continues to explain how he only pardons the sins that do not involve him and which are not that bad. The ironic part is that he works for God but gets paid to preach and pardon. He openly admits to taking money from poor people that do not have it to begin with as well as food and wine and such. In his story, he explains how 3 men wish to find death and find gold instead. They planned on killing each other so they would not have to share the gold. In the end, all three die and “find death”. It is ironic that the Pardoner would tell such a tale considering he himself is the greediest of them all.
The irony in the persona of the Pardoner and the tale complements the irony within the tale itself very nicely. In the tale, the three men all have different plans on killing each other. Two send one away to the town and they plan on killing him with a dagger to split the gold only two ways. The first man who goes into town buys poison and plans to give it to the other two so he can keep the gold for himself. It is ironic because all three wish to become wealthier but in the end all end up dying and meeting death which was their original plan to begin with. It is the same ironic situation with the Pardoner’s personality as well. The Pardoner takes everyone’s money to preach and do the work of God which he should be doing for free to begin with. Also, he only Pardons the sins in which he feels are “not that bad”. The Pardoner’s theme itself, that “greed is the root of all evils” is ironic and contradicts how he acts. The two types of irony in both cases mean virtually the same thing; “Radix malorum est cupiditas”.
There is juxtaposition between the Pardoner’s tale and his personality in his prologue. When Chaucer describes the Pardoner and his tale itself, there is almost an underlying sarcastic tone that is subtle and hard to pick up on. (I could be completely wrong here) But I got the impression that Chaucer made it ironic almost to make fun of the Pardoner and the way they acted back when the Canterbury tales were written. By his tone, it seems as though Chaucer does not fully agree with Pardoners and their job to Pardon people of their sins. When the Pardoner was discussing how he only Pardons the sins in which he feels are not that bad; “If any wight be in this chirche now, That hath doon synne horrible, that he Dar nat for shame of it yshryven be, Or any woman, be she yong or old, That hath ymaad hir housbonde cokewold, Swich folk shal have no power ne no grace To offren to my relikes in this place.” (92-98) Because he is a Pardoner that takes poor people’s money and food, and picks which sins he wants to Pardon, it is difficult to say that Chaucer agreed with people’s attitudes toward religion and morality. It seems almost as though he is making fun of it.
B1.
A caesura is a complete pause in a line of poetry or in a musical composition. There are different types of caesuras throughout poetry. There is masculine caesura which follows a stressed syllable and a feminine caesura follows and unstressed syllable. If the caesura is close to the beginning of a line it is called an initial caesura, if it is in the middle it is called a medial caesura, and one near the end of a line is called a terminal caesura. An example of a caesura in Beowulf is on page seven where it says, “the hot surge waiting of furious flame. Nor far was that day…” This is a caesura because the period in the middle of the line causes a pause. One does not continue reading the verse fluidly and this is the exact purpose of a caesura.
B2.
A kenning is a conventional poetic phrase used for or in addition to the name of a person or thing. It is most commonly used in Icelandic or Anglo- Saxon verse. An example of kenning in Beowulf is on page 56 when it says, “rapture-of-heaven.” This stands in place of the word “sun.” One knows that this means the sun because right before it talks of the guest sleeping and then after it talks about brightness shinning in after a shadow which would be night time. On page 34 it says a , “ relict-of-files” which would be kenning for the word sword. It can be inferred that a sword is being talked about because of the context after the statement. It says that it is sharp and that there is a shielded hero. Normally someone who is fighting in battle will shield themselves from an opponents sword. One page 48 there is also another kenning for sword. The kenning used would be, “the light-of-battle.” This represents a sword because it talks about warrior and how the edge had failed to harm the heart. Also it says that it is the first time that the blades glory had fallen.
B3.
Many pieces of Anglo- Saxon culture can be found throughout Beowulf. The most dominant would be the use of kenning throughout the entire story. Kenning was predominately used by Anglo-Saxons and it is a way of using metaphors to describe simple things. “Weaver-of-peace” would be used to describe a wife through kenning. This is also another example of the view of Anglo- Saxons. Women played a huge role in the Anglo-Saxon life, they were even treated better during this time period than they were for many periods after it. The wives after described as “gentle.” Also women were allowed to rule kingdoms if their husbands had died. It also talks of all the heros being brave and that is another part of the culture of Anglo-Saxons. The word brave is used to describe characters, actions, battles, and much more. As said in Beowulf, “gold for him whom Grendel erst murdered,” relatives were allowed vengeance for a murdered family member on he who committed the crime.
Ross, David, and Britian Express. "Anglo-Saxon England - Culture and Society." UK Travel and Heritage - Britain Express UK Travel Guide. Web. 18 Dec. 2011. .
CA.
The knight is characterized as being brave and a gentleman. He loved chivalry, truth, honor, and freedom. Even with being strong and brave he was also very wise and did not have a bad temper. He fought in many battles throughout his life and all were won by him. Although he is this brave famed figure his attire is not very well put together. He wears a tunic of simple cloth that is discolored and stained by his habergeon. Chaucer describes him this way to show that there is nothing more important to him then his duties and his battles and that he does it truly for the right reasons and not for the just the fame.
The clerk is from Oxford and he studies philosophy. He is very skinny and looks like he does not eat. He coat is a very old coat and he does not seem to have the money to buy a new one. He is a man of philosophy and would rather read books like Aristotle than have rich robes and listen to happy music. He did not have much money but what he did have he would spend it on books or he would borrow them from friends. He prayed to a God for his friends who helped him attain the education he had. He loved to learn and he would teach anyone anything he knew.
The sergeant of the law is a man of a higher class. He is keen and wise and had a great amount of knowledge. He was paid a lot of money and he had many robes. He made himself look more busy than he actually was. He could tell you any crime that had been committed since King William ruled. He knew every law and could write up a contract with very little effort. The only thing that stood out about his outfit on the boat was that he wore a medley coat held together with a belt of silk. The fact that the sergeant is able to own something of silk also shows that he belongs to a higher class and that he is wealthy because silk was very hard to attain if you were not rich.
CB.
The MC’s are wearing mostly normal clothes. Two men are white and another man is of African-American descent. One of the white men is wearing a red Dr. Pepper t-shirt with aviator sunglasses. He has a short hair cut as well. He is wearing a pair of light colored jeans. The other white man is wearing a black shirt with writing in white. He has on what looks like a fisherman’s hat that is plaid. The plaid colors consist of blue, brown, white, and some hints of green. He is also wearing baggy dark colored pants. The African-American man is wearing a brown t shirt with a brown pin striped sweater over it. The stripes are of a darker brown and white color. He is also wearing a lighter brown hat that is to the side with word on it that are written in a white color. Under his hat he has a bald head. He is wearing a pair of dark colored jeans.
CD.
The narrators voice reminds me of an Irish Accent.It could be more of a thicker British accent I am not exactly certain though. It is a very thick accent and hard to understand if you are not following along with the introduction. Some words like March, were very easy to hear so I could follow along with where in the passage the man was speaking from. However there were times when his accent was so thick I could not tell what it was he was saying. He would pause after each sentence so I would know he would be starting at a new one after his quick break and that aided me in following along with the introduction.
CE.
The tale of the pardoner is painfully ironic in many ways. The pardoner only wants people to give him everyone so he can gain profit from them. A pardoner is supposed to be someone who travels around and forgives people for their sins. The ironic part about this is that he commits many sins himself especially by taking bargains for forgiving people for their sins. He is supposed to do it free of charge but decides to add a twist to it. This compliments the irony within the tale itself.
In the Pardoner’s tale, the men do the exact opposite of what their job is; This is like how the Pardoner does his job the exact opposite way it should be done. The men inside of the tale set off looking for death so they can destroy it. Greed comes into play when the men find a treasure by the tree. Greed also plays a role in the Pardoner’s lifestyle. Then the younger man plans on poisoning the other two men, and they in return plan on killing the younger man.
Through Chaucer’s tone it is easy to see that he is making fun of religion and morality. He has a very sarcastic and ironic tone throughout the whole tale. He is showing that money and greed is all that really matter to people and they will fight till the end to get it. It also makes fun of religion because the Pardoner is supposed to help people get rid of Sins so they can go to Heaven and yet, he himself is committing many sins. It even seems as though Chaucer is trying to show that not even the Pardoner believes in and is fully committed to his work of God.
Part G
1.In the first panel I see the scene of Adam and Eve with Christ. The are sitting by the forbidden tree with fruits. It also shows the birth of other animals and everything else that god created in those first seven days. The world seems peaceful and everything seems to get along. In the second panel, it is more of a modern experience being shown. The humans take up most of the space so it shows how humans take up most of the world and everything else is just by passed.It shows many humans now taking apples from the tree which could symbolize how humans are always making sins the same way that Eve had done. The third panel shows the destruction of the human race. It shows how after we are gone creatures like mouse and rats, will still live on they will become the new rulers of the world. It could also depict another version of hell.
2.
Chaucer: People do not know what is going to become of them.
Pardoner: What do you mean?
Chaucer: They are going to destroy this world with all their sins and lying.
Pardoner: No they wont, it is my job to forgive them of their sins. All they have to do is pay a simple price.
Chaucer: No dear Pardoner, this is not how you should be acting. Your work of God should be free of any personal gain. Can you not see that the human race is just wasting away and soon there will be nothing left but pure darkness? How can you act so selfishly while the rest of the world is suffering?
Pardoner: It is their own fault can you not see that. They are the reason this is happening to them not me or anyone else.
Chaucer: Look closer at the painting my friend. Everyone is too busy worrying about themselves and what is going to happen to them. If only they worked together then they could solve their problems and crises. Their own blood and flesh is being eaten away by mouse and rats.
Pardoner: That is true but that is what must happen to one who does not deserve to enter into heaven. Just like their life, their bodies will be eaten away into nothing. Those who pay their dues will escape but those who do not will be stuck in the world of darkness at the top of the painting.
Chaucer: The world was once such a happy and peaceful place but as time as progressed it has only become worse.
Part 1:
Beowulf:
B1) A caesura is a complete pause or staccato within a line. It is usually located within in poetry or a musical composition. One is located near the end of the second stanza in the prelude of Beowulf. It is said that “no man is able to say in sooth, no son of the halls, no hero ‘neath heaven, -- who harbored that freight” depicting that a break is meant to be recognized by the reader from the subsequent double hyphenation after heaven. Here the author of the writing deliberately wants the reader to pause for a moment from reading to “who harbored that freight” in order to bring a greater significance to the segment of the line and total stanza.
B2) A kenning is a figurative, creative technique used to combine two nouns to create a sort of compound word that strives to trigger thought in the reader, rather than being a straight-forward, tangible noun. Within the stanza includes an existence of a “whale-path” which is meant to truly account for an ocean, being instead a more thought enticing word. Another example is depicted through the “breaker-of-rings” which obscurely references a king, as a king “breaks off gold from the spiral rings -- often worn on the arm -- and so rewards his followers”. A final example is meant to stand for a goblet or tankard; the example being “mead-cup”.
B3) Beyond the allusions to the war going on between the Germanic tribes like the Anglo-Saxons, are the multiple references to the rise of Christianity of the early 5th century. Within the text mentions “the Lord [being] sent” (7) which most closely resembles either Jesus or God; a depiction of the start of Christianization. As war is again mentioned and defended for its time, in the text states “On kin of Cain was the killing avenged by sovran God for slaughtered Abel. Ill fared his feud, and far was he driven, for the slaughter's sake, from sight of men. Of Cain awoke all that woful breed, Etins and elves and evil-spirits, as well as the giants that warred with God weary while: but their wage was paid them,” (8) a clear indication that the Bible played a part of the Anglo-Saxon and “Beowulf” era, so forth depicting the rise of Christianity of its time. “And now the bold one from bands of Geats comrades chose, the keenest of warriors e'er he could find; with fourteen men the sea-wood he sought, and, sailor proved, led them on to the land's confines” (11), the confines that would only be reached through total courage, a great value of the Anglo-Saxon culture.
Part 2:
Chaucer:
CA) In the text regarding the Squire or “Squier”, Chaucer describes him as being “twenty yeer of age” and of “evene lengthe”. Being only twenty years old and not tall or short, the Squire appears relatively normal. Also being “wonderly delyvere, and of greet strengthe”, Chaucer depicts the Squire as any Squire must appear to be, passionate and energized. As the Squire was “syngynge he was, or floytnge, all the day” Chaucer reveals the joyous mood the Squire inhabits and that “curteis he was, lowely, and servysable”; a down-to-earth, pleasant individual in society.
The Monk however was stricter of a person; “a manly man, to been an abbot able” who thought “that lovede venerie”, or rather, in English, thought “hunting was his sport”. He though “leet olde thynges pace” and didn’t want to rush things out of good faith. “With grys” on his sleeves, Chaucer portrays the ruggedness of the Monk compared to the other pilgrims. Although, he was believably older, a possibility from having a head that “was balled, that shoon as any glas”. He was not a broad man, but “ful fat [with] eyen stepe [which] rollynge in his heed” with a face “not pale as a forpyned goost”.
Furthermore, Chaucer depicts the Yeoman as a more prepared human being, mentioning that “a forster was he, soothly, as I gesse.” Carrying “a swerd and a bokeler…and on that oother syde a gay daggere” the Yeoman had clearly had his times of fighting, and is always ready to be attacked. Chaucer also sheds light on the more intellectual side of the Yeoman for “of woodecraft wel koudee he al the usage.” The Yeoman is described as being “clad in cote and hood of grene…[carrying] a sheef of pecok arwes, bright and kene”, clearly camouflaged into the environment around him, verifying his innate “forster” persona.
CB) The MCs’ attire were comprised of button-down shirts, hats, cargo pants, jeans, and sunglasses; generally bad style.
CD) As the narrator read the passage, his tone, like any reader, lead to an easier understanding of the events that were occurring, which mostly a calm description of, what I believe to be, some swayed breath with uplifting power and tender nature. There is some contemplation made about England and the character did so for the sake of something. I was able to, hopefully successfully, decode this much due to the pronunciations of some words that must have been closely spelled in accordance to their English counterparts. Most words I could not translate because the speaker just read the words as they were meant to be read. Again, his tone only led me to believe that nothing climactic was happening.
Part 3:
Chaucer Continued:
CE) After reading the Pardoner’s tale, I have discovered that it is quite ironic. The pardoner speaks of three young men who attempt to kill “Death”. This is obviously ironic because of course nobody real can kill death, but simply try to evade it, but in the story, the three men successful kill “Death” so it will no longer do the killing. Also ironic is how the three men attempt to decide how they will divide a treasure. First they were going to divide it amongst the three of them, then secretly just the two of them, and then just greedily one. Ironically, at the end, two of the men drink a poisonous drink without knowing killing themselves, leaving the treasure to go to only one of the young men. After it all, only one man gets the treasure and he knowingly gives each of the men the poison. Also, in general, the story ironically shows that greed leads to death, not in fact any actual inhabitance of “Death”.
The irony, I think complements the irony of the Pardoner’s story itself as it makes the story enjoyable. Being that the plot is ironically about killing “Death” when it really can’t be killed and the Pardoner is against greed and such, but kills off men for treasure, is quite humorous. I suppose it would conflict with the tale if the tale was trying to prove a certain, opposing point, but it instead complements the story.
I find Chaucer’s tone to be a bit light-hearted, humorous, yet straight-forward as he purposefully tries to set the story up to be clearly ironic, and the only way for the reader to see it as ironic as if it sounded a bit omniscient and silly, when Chaucer is describing the events among each of the ignorant and greedy young men. His tone and personality definitely lends itself to the story successfully.
As a result from reading the story, I can conclude that Chaucer thought differently about religion and morality. He may have seen both as a joke and that things should just run its course, free from the binds of religion and morality. Yet, Chaucer may actually agree with morality since those young, greedy men end up dying; unable to receive the treasure, but this also may assist the idea that Chaucer finds morality cumbersome and perplexing.
Part G) The scenes being depicted are the following. The first section depicts what seems to be the Garden of Eden, with many animals and Adam and Eve and God. The second section represents population growth, industrialism, and thriving of life, yet the decadence of the life of animals and serenity. The third shows the destruction and death from the power of the people in society. It shows tyranny and darkness, setting the tone for the section of the painting.
“What do you see?” “I see a great place to live.” “Really?” “No, it looks awful; this is the result of greed.” “Aren’t you quite greedy Pardoner?” “Yes, but I can pull it off quite successfully, I kill before others may kill me.” “That is true. Well, death most likely occurs from gluttony and greed. People are just too caught up with making a quick buck.” “I agree… but money and treasure are quite nice…well maybe I’ll think twice before I choose greed over fairness and equality. “Good, now you’ve learned your lesson; I’m sure you’ll be better off than these folk in such a dystopia such as this.
Jackie Toomey
English D
12/18/2011
Beowulf/Chaucer Assignment
BEOWULF
1. What is a caesura?
According to www.types-of-poetry.org, a caesura is "a grammatical pause or break in a line of poetry (like a question mark), usually near the middle of the line. A caesura is usually dictated by sense or natural speech rhythm rather than by metrics. In poetry scansion, a caesura is usually indicated by the symbol //." In Beowulf, an example of a caesura that is not marked by the traditional // symbol would be in the preclude, where it says "should war draw nigh, linemen loyal: by lauded deeds shall on earl have honor in every clan." The colon between "loyal" and "by" represents a noticeable pause within the line, and when read aloud is even more apparently a grammatical pause.
2. What is Kenning?
Kenning, according to www.poetryarchive.org, is a "much compressed form of metaphor, originally used in Anglo-Saxon and Norse poetry. In a kenning, an object is described in a two-word phrase, such as 'whale road' for 'sea'. Some kennings can be more obscure than others, and then grow close to being a riddle." Within Beowulf, there are various examples of kenning. The first example, found in the prelude, is indeed "whale road", which means "sea". The second example of kenning is "the breaker of rings", which, in the annotations, translates to mean "king or chieftain of a comitatus". The third example is on page nine, where it says "resting places", another way to say "gravesite" or "burial grounds".
3.Beowulf is indicative of Old English and is infused with a curious blend of the traditions and values of Anglo- Saxon culture and the rise of Christianity. Do a bit of research regarding the Anglo Saxons. Quote and discuss passages from the text that represent this unique dynamic.
Within Anglo Saxon societies, there was a lot of focus placed on religion. There was a mixture of pagan and christian beliefs on which they based their culture, and in Beowulf, the characteristics of both are very clearly shown. The entire first part of Beowulf describes a line of great kings and rulers that lead their followers to military success. Pagan beliefs, also reflected in the Anglo Saxon culture, are based strongly on the strength and success of warriors. Although there are components of pagan traditions within the work, the christian aspects are also very apparent. There are various references within the text to God, as well as demons. Grendel, a demon said to have killed his brother, was angered by the songs that said earth was created by God, so he rose up from his evil abode and killed thirty innocent men. This demonic figure represents Satan and all his evil attributes, showing that christianity did have a significant affect on Beowulf and how it was written.
The heroic code is another part of Anglo Saxon culture that is infused within the lines of Beowulf. The Anglo Saxons had developed a code, comprised of "strength, courage, and loyalty in warriors", and "it also required kings to be hospitable, generous, and have great political skills." (powerpoint) Beowulf's rulers exhibit these heroic characteristics in nearly every way, helping lead their people to military success.
Works Cited:
http://www.slideshare.net/k8would/the-anglosaxons-and-beowulf-presentation
B1. A caesura is a symbolic pause within a line or stanza in a poem. The role of the pause is to inflict a sense of urgency or suspense in which follows after the pause. “This boon they seek, that they, my master, may with thee have speech at will: nor spurn their prayer to give them hearing, gracious Hrothgar!” As presented, the colon in the line demonstrates a pause, or minor break from what lies on both sides. This signifies that though the two lines divided by the colon are related whether directly or indirectly, each serve it's own crucial purpose within the overall text. The pause is designed to signify the importance of the material that follows; a complex yet common literal technique.( Beowulf has nothing on me)
B2. A kenning is a figurative expression or hyphenated word that more vividly describes or concludes an idea, while replacing a more common and simplistic word with the same definition or idea. An outside example would be row-boat; though a 'dingy' is an appropriate alternative, row-boat emphasis the subject, along with the action required to operate the subject. “Sea-wood” as stated in Beowulf is a perfect example. Sea-wood literally means a ship, by emphasizing where and what composes the properties of a ship. Other examples are “Hell-Runes” and “Breaker-of-rings.” Hell-Runes refers to haunting forces from hell while breaker-of-rings is a kenning for a king of a comitatus; whom would break of gold from the spiral rings worn on his arm as reward to others. All three kennings clearly define the idea the author is seeking to convey, but by approaching it at an alternative, yet sophisticated way (though some were the actual 'words' of that time).
-to be continued....
Brian Loud
12/12/11
Class: A
Beowulf
B1: Caesura is a complete pause in a line of poetry or in a musical composition. This pause is usually somewhere in the middle of a verse. Throughout the novel of “Beowulf” caesuras are displayed, “So becomes it a youth to quit him well with his father's friends, by fee and gift, that to aid him, aged, in after days, come warriors willing, should war draw nigh, liegemen loyal: by lauded deeds shall an earl have honor in every clan”. Caesura is used to change or pause in Beowulf when a young man is aged into a warrior. He ages quickly and is given or taught what he needs to become a warrior.
B2: Kenning is a figurative, usually compound expression used in place of a name or noun, especially in Old English and Old Norse poetry. Many examples of kenning are shown throughout “Beowulf”. The word sea-wood (pg.10) stands for boat in modern English. Also, another example of kenning is the word gold-bright (pg.10), which stands for rich. In “Beowulf” a warrior is described as linden-wielders (pg.10).
B3: The Anglo-Saxon religion and the rise of Christianity are blended together and used throughout the novel of Beowulf. The rise of Christianity in Beowulf is seen in the description of one god and other religious figures. A person is described in this novel duplicating the story of Jesus, “To him an heir was afterward born, a son in his halls, whom heaven sent to favor the folk” (5). The narrator refers to the Christian belief of one lord only by saying, “he would all allot that the Lord had sent him, save only the land and the lives of his men” (7). Along with the rise of Christianity, the religion of Anglo-Saxon is fused within this novel. The Anglo-Saxon religion is also seen as having super natural characters, “elves and evil-spirits, as well as the giants that warred with God” (8). The Anglo-Saxon religion in Beowulf is illustrated as in the characters having God like powers. Sigemund is described in a god-like way as having, “all heroes the highest renown among races of men, this refuge-of-warriors, for deeds of daring that decked his name” (30).
Brian Loud
Chaucer
CA: The Knight was a very noble character in the novel “The Canterbury Tales”. On his voyage with other pilgrims he wore clothes that were worn out, discolored, and stained. He has just returned from one of his many fighting voyages. He is a very brave gentleman with a controlled temper. He is described as a person with high intelligence. The description indicates that the Knight is from the noble class.
The squire is another pilgrim that is on the same voyage with the Knight. He is described as a young single man in his 20’s. He has long hair and of average height. The squire is athletic, very strong, and agile. Even though he is a squire it seems to be that he is a soldier at times. He is a humble man who is very courteous. It appears that he is of middle class.
The merchant is a well dressed quite pilgrim. He talks only of his gains and not his losses. He is good with money and does not associate with people that owe others money. His character does not make an impression because his name was not remembered. This description leads one to believe he belongs to middle class.
CB: In the dope rap version of the prologue one guy is wearing a black shirt with white writing on the front. He is also wearing a weird colored fishermen hat. Another guy is wearing a red shirt that says Dr. Pepper on it, and has glasses. The third guy is wearing a striped shirt with a white hat to the side.
CD: In the audio clip, the narrator’s voice sounds like it is a British accent. There is no emphasis on any singular word, but with the emphasis on spacing of the words. His pronunciation and lack of emotion does not help you decode the passage.
CE: The Pardoner’s Tale is about offering redemption for your sins. The Pardoner’s persona and role is ironic because he is offering a cure for sins by kissing relics of the saints, which are not real. This cure also comes with a cost of gold. The Pardoner is on a pilgrimage and lets everyone know that these relics are not real, but still tries to offer redemption with them.
The Pilgrimage is a journey to an important location, which allows one to improve their character, and also to find or strengthen a person’s spiritual beliefs. The pardoner is offering a cure for one’s sins based on the amount of gold for payment. He is using religion falsely to gain wealth. This irony conflicts with the idea of this pilgrimage.
Chaucer’s tone is one of disbelief when hearing of the Pardoner’s Tale. His tone changes towards anger when a tale of a murder is described as occurring over the gaining of wealth. This murderer is then offered a cure for his sin based on payment. He then describes the Pardoner as being a con artist and a fool in attempting to continue with his ways after telling others that his possessions are not real. The reader can conclude that Chaucer’s attitude towards religion is that it is based on that there are many people attempting to make a profit for their own good.
Part G: In panel one Bosch depicts a scene of God with Adam and Eve, the beginning of mankind. Around them are a bunch of animals roaming free. In the middle panel, there are a many humans depicted nude. There are also angels in the background flying around. There are also a lot of animals and apple trees. The third panel shows a very dark place with a bunch of fire around it. The humans look very distraught and they are being tortured. There are animals that are eating humans.
Chaucer: Why are these people in hell? Can they not pay their way out? What do you say now Pardoner? Do you think these people have morals? Mankind does pay for their sins but not by gold.
BEOWULF
B1. Caesura is a pause in the middle of a sentence that can be brought on by a comma, semi-colon, or a colon in most cases with Beowulf. More broadly, it is the poetic structure of verses. The main purpose of having this device in the text is to create a sort of rhythm or flow to entice the reader in and stay focused on what is being said. There are an equal number of syllables on each side of the caesura. A great example of this within Beowulf lies in the description of Beowulf setting out on his journey, as the text reads “ruthless murder; he recked no whit.” Here, a semi-colon is utilized for caesura, service as a natural pause as if someone were talking naturally. Both sides have an equal amount of syllables. As a whole, the sentence reads something like “careless and ruthless murder as he took no caution in thinking.” This is just one of the thousands of examples of caesura used throughout Beowulf, creating a great flow to the text.
B2. Kenning is a word or phrased that is used frequently or often enough to express or represent something or someone. In Beowulf, there are also many examples of kennings as there were instances of caesura. Three words in the text that exemplify kenning are “whale-road,” “war-gear,” and “ring-giver.” The term “whale-road” is used to mean “sea,” simply defining the sea for literally what it may be, a whale’s path. The simplicity in this term is wonderful as is it at the same time explains what the sea is, rather than just having the word “sea” or “ocean.” The next term “war-gear” means something close to armor or some suit of protection a soldier would wear. This is yet a perfect example of kenning because the word “armor” does not really express what it does, whereas “war-gear” is self-explanatory if someone had never seen either word. Lastly, “ring giver” is the term used in Beowulf to represent the “King.” Other slight variations in the story are “Jewels-giver” and “giver of the rings,” each signify the one who gave rings to soldiers. The king would do this as an incentive, reward, or sign of loyalty to soldiers.
B3. The Anglo-Saxon religion was closely related or directly related to Paganism up until around the 7th or 8th century. The story of Beowulf is believed to have been written anywhere from the 8th to 11th century. Similarly, the Anglo-Saxons at this same time were transforming into a Christian group of believers, something that that can be seen in the work that is Beowulf. The appearance and existence of God is clearly stated with exclamations like, “Now God be thanked that safe and sound I can see thee now!” and praises such as, “a glorious gift that God had sent.” From the reading of Paganism and knowledge of Christianity, the mere fact that God is referenced, let alone several times, is a strong indication that Beowulf was created in a time when the Anglo-Saxons were adopting Christianity. Another major part of Anglo-Saxon life, made evident by its people, is fighting and war. Beowulf is a tale of a heroic warrior who fights nobly and is made into a king. This relates completely to power and violence, something much more relevant to an Anglo-Saxon time period in the sense of barbarianism. These two main characteristics of Beowulf coincide perfectly with the Anglo-Saxon customs that are most prevalent.
CHAUCER
CA: Upon characterizing the Franklin, Chaucer utilizes an upbeat atmosphere, coupled with luxurious details and admiration. Starting with nothing negative to say and continuing that gesture, Chaucer describes the Franklin, who is, “Epicurus' very son” as bright and “White was his beard as is the white daisy.” The Franklin is a man of great wealth as “his bread, his ale were always good and fine; no man had cellars better stocked with wine.” Chaucer chooses these items to display because in the times in which these pilgrims lived, wine, rich foods, and homes all showed your stature. Though his real profession has been a tax collector and sheriff, the Franklin “At county sessions was the lord and sire, and often acted as a knight of shire,” furthermore telling of his greatness and wealth. This whole introduction of the Franklin stays evenly and perpetually complementary and joyous, as is the description of another pilgrim: the Physician.
Using many unique characteristics and once again praising description, Chaucer gives the Physician a wonderful sense of importance and greatness. This physician is intelligent and intuitive, the man studies not only anatomical practices, but exceeds the normal physicians and is “instructed in astronomy.” Knowing “the cause of every sickness,” the Physician is able to “calculate the planetary position to improve the state his patient is in,” something a mere lowly physician may only aspire to be able to do. This extensive detailing to show the magnitude of the Physician’s ability adds to the power and identity of the entire group of pilgrims as a whole. Those in the group are different in their own ways and come together to create an ultimate rivalry. At the end of the description Chaucer has given this inquisitive man, a hint of an egocentric side to the healer may be apparent. Though it may be quick to judge the Physician as one who cares for all and puts others first, the opposite is told at the dwindling of the introduction stating “Therefore he loved his gold exceeding all.” The Physician now controls two sides to his personality; one side which gives remedy and health, united with a drive to acquire precious gold. As he holds two sides, one more hidden from the other, another man in this interesting group, the merchant, keeps to himself a secret of his own.
Though briefly talked of and mysteriously concluded, the introduction of the merchant speaks of valuable information in the type of character the man is. With a “forked beard” and “motley gown,” the merchant at the same time has a respectable, clean look with a “beaver hat” and boots that “were fastened neatly and elegantly.” Moving from the physical description to the more detailed and informative intellectual side of the man, the Merchant “kept all his wits well set” seeing as how “there was no person that knew he was in debt,” proving to show how quiet and kept to himself he is. Compared to the two previous men characterized, the Merchant is not as outgoing or displaying signs of leadership or nobility. The narrator, though having much respect for the Merchant, has trouble remembering much more about him seeing as how he is much more reserved and less boastful saying, “Indeed he was a worthy man withal, but, to tell the truth, his name I can’t recall.” The merchant is not as greatly described as the Franklin and Physician, but still carries importance and is characterized in a way such as to add a curiosity to “Canterbury Tales.”
CE: Shifting from the roisterers’ ignorance to the Pardoner’s blatant manipulation in “The Pardoner’s Tale”, Chaucer juxtaposes the extreme irony of the Pardoner’s story with the Pardoner’s deceitful character to elucidate his skepticism of religious faith, religious leaders, and the authenticity of their morality.
In the Pardoner’s story, three men set out to kill death, which in and of itself is an ironical goal. The men want to stop this beast from killing by murdering it themselves, claiming that “Death shall be dead”. The gold, found where Death was said to be found, is at first seen as a miracle and the men forget about killing Death, until Death sneaks in and takes them instead. Ironically, the men’s greed has stopped them in their conquest to kill Death and has led them each to their own deaths.
The Pardoner concludes his story by telling the host that he is “the most-enveloped in all sin” and that he can pardon the Host’s sins in return for an offering, complementing the irony of his story with greed and hypocrisy. Although he is known to redeem parishioners of their sins, the Pardoner is the sinner of all sinners. He manipulates innocent people’s faith to take advantage of their funds. He accuses them of being greedy and encourages them to give offerings to pardon their sins, but does so only of his own selfishness. His sermons are always hypocritical, preaching that “radix malorum est cupiditas”, or “greed is the root of all evil.”
Chaucer does not cast this figure in warm light, showcasing his apprehension towards the morality of revered religious figures. His sardonic tone throughout the Pardoner’s story creates an unappealing mood as the readers are turned away from the Pardoner’s avarice and more so, his blatant hypocrisy. He criticizes religious figures for taking advantage of how ignorant people will cast their faith into these men to do what they believe will save their souls. As even the Pardoner himself recognizes, Chaucer believe that religion is, to some extent, corrupt and humanity is often dominated by greed, yet these two qualities seem to be an inevitable part of human nature.
B1)
A caesura is a pause in a line of poetry. Caesuras provide rhythm and are usually in the middle of the line with an equal number of syllables on either side of the pause. Between the 8th and 11th century (around the time Beowulf was thought to be originated), most stories were passed along verbally. Therefore by incorporating a "rhythm", it not only made the story easier for the teller to remember but also more interesting to the audience. There are many caesuras throughout Beowulf. Commas are scatter plentifully in each verse , almost forcing the reader to pays at each one. An example of a caesura is "leader beloved, and long he ruled". This line can be written without the comma in the middle and read without a pause, but by utilizing a caesura there it emphasizes both parts of the line.
B2)
A kenning is a compound expression used in Old English in please of an ordinary noun. Like caesuras, they provide rhythm in the story. Kennings were useful to Old English era storytellers because they didn't have to come up with new words. They could just combine existing words. One example is "whale-path" which represents the sea/ocean. Since "whales" swim the "path" of the ocean, this keening is accurate. Another example is "death shadow" which is meant to take the place of any form of darkness (or a dark color). This is a great example of kenning because it not only accurately depicts "darkness" but also emphasizes how ominous and eery the dark is. A third example is "battle-gear", meaning body armor.
CA)
One of the characters introduced in The Canterbury Tales (Prologue) is a knight. He has never spoken unkindly and has been played the villain’s part. Perfect, gentle, and a worthy man, he believes in honor, chivalry, giving, honesty, and courtesy. He is Christian and is always making a valiant effort for his lord. Other knights envy him and he is constantly being praised for his good deeds. He fought at Gernade, Algezir, Belmarye, Lyeys, Satalye, along the Great Sea, and multiple other spots, totaling more than fifteen battles. He had good horses but unfortunately was not happy.
Another character that is introduced in the Prologue is a pompous merchant dresses in non-matching clothes. He sits proudly on his horse. He has a beaver hat on with fair boots. He boasts of his earnings. He was dignified and worthy but the narrator does not know his name.
One family brought their cook along with them. He cooked their chicken with marrowbones, poudre-marchant tart, and galyngale. He also prepared them London ale. He knew how to broil, roast, and fry. He makes mortreux and bakes pie. He makes the best blankmanger. But it makes the narrator sad that the cook has an ulcer on his shin.
CB)
One MC is wearing a grey and blue plaid hat with a black t-shirt. A second is wearing a tan baseball cap with a brown-striped shirts. The third is wearing a red t-shirt and black sunglasses.
CD)
Although his accent is very thick, he holds a good rhythm throughout his reading. I thin that when we read it ourselves we can’t help but pause at the end of each line, regardless if there is punctuation there or not. But the reader in this recording has a good flow and reads through the lines and only pauses when there is punctuation, which is the way it should be read.
CE)
The pardoner is a corrupt man. He believes that “greed is the root of all evil” and that is the theme of all of his sermons. He has a bag of fake “relics” but instead of hiding it, he is somewhat proud of himself. He admits to his own acts of fraud and gluttony. But he feels no remorse for his actions; he instead has a sense of pride. He seems too proud, as if he is trying to hide his own guilt. At the end of his tale, he offers his relics even though he just spent all that time explaining his corruptness to the fellow travelers.
CF)
I believe that the painting is a progression of mankind. In the first panel there is one man, one woman, and one leader figure. As time progresses humans multiply. They engage in un-holy activities. There is a lot of sexual activity present; man with man, woman with woman, and man with woman. There is even interracial activity and what looks like bestiality also. Along with the sexual aspect, there is gluttony. And as the viewer progresses to the right panel, it becomes dark. Everything looks broken and most of the people are dead and the rest are on their way there.
B1: A caesura is a deliberate pause in a line of poetry of music. In poetry, a caesura can be either masculine or feminine depending on whether it follows a stressed or unstressed syllable, respectively. In Beowulf, caesuras are fairly common, such as in the line, "gave him gifts: a good king he!" In this instance the caesura is used to separate the second half of the line from the first half because the first half is a continuation of the line before it and the second half is a somewhat arbitrary phrase to augment the previous line.
B2: A kenning is defined as a piece of figurative language, usually a hyphenated or compound word, which replaces a more concrete term. This technique is most closely associated with Old English and Anglo-Saxon writing, and thus appears quite often in Beowulf. One of the most ubiquitous examples of a kenning found in this epic poem is "whale-path", which refers to the ocean; using this phrase creates a more awe-inspiring feel as the highway of leviathans. Another example is "breaker-of-rings" in place of the word "king", because in the days of old an Anglo-Saxon king would break gold rings off his arms to give to his followers as gifts. In this case the kenning is meant to emphasize the compassionate and giving soul of the king. Another kenning used frequently throughout the poem is "mead-house" in place of the "hall" or lodge in a community, showing just how much the people of ancient Scandinavia enjoyed their alcohol.
B3: The religious influences of Beowulf are radical in that they exemplify a time when Christianity was just beginning to replace the Anglo-Saxon polytheism.
CA: The knight is characterized as someone to be admired in all social classes. He is described as having “loved chivalry, truth, honour, and all courtesy” and went all over the world fighting courageously for Great Britain. But not only is he a powerful warrior, he is “very wise and of temper as meekly as a maid”, indicating that to all appearances the knight is an individual of the highest caliber. But the most admirable aspect of his characterization is his dress; he wears naught but “a tunic of simple cloth...discoloured and stained by his habergeon.” A medieval knight was a wealthy individual, and these simple clothes indicate that the knight is humble about his affluence and therefore more virtuous than any of the other pilgrims.
The friar is an interesting and convoluted character. He is a lover of all merry festivities with a “throat as white as the lily flower”, meaning he had a lovely singing voice. But this friar is corrupt because he accepts monetary donations in return for the cleansing of sins, and he does so while flaunting his wealth; “he was like a lord or like a pope, of double cloth was his semi-cope.” The interesting part is that Chaucer doesn’t appear to entirely dislike the friar, describing him as having “two eyes twinkle in his head so bright as do the stars within the frosty night”; this may have something to do with Chaucer’s apparent disdain for the Catholic church.
The shipman’s character is fairly indicative of lower class life in those times. His face is tanned, he wears a simple wool outer garment, and a dagger hangs from his neck at all times. He is an expert sailor who “very often took a draught of wine”; probably very typical of one in this profession in medieval England. But this man takes what he can and gives nothing back, and Chaucer states, “nice conscience was a thing he never kept.”
CB: The MCs in the video are wearing casual street clothes; one is wearing a black shirt with strange-looking plaid hat, the black guy is wearing a baseball hat and a button-down shirt striped with various earthen colors, and the other guy is wearing a red shirt and sunglasses.
CD: While the narrator’s accent made the listening experience feel more authentic, it literally sounded like he was speaking a foreign language and didn’t aid in deciphering the passage whatsoever.
the rest of Chaucer is forthcoming
-Ian Mallor
B1. A caesura can be defined as a grammatical pause or break in a line of poetry and is often times placed in the middle of a line. It is generally used to show the pauses that the speaker uses in everyday speech. Caesura appears most often in Latin and Greek verse. In “Beowulf”, a caesura is used in the line “of youthful comrades. It came in his mind”. The period indicates to the reader that there is a break in speech before the next sentence begins.
B2. Kenning is figurative combination, usually a compound word, used to express a noun or name. It is mostly used in Old English and Old Norse poetry with metaphorical meaning. At the beginning of “Beowulf”, kenning is used with “spear-armed Danes”. To explain the Danish army, the speaker combines spear and armed to show that they were equipped with weapons. Another example of kenning in “Beowulf” is “evil-spirits”. Employing this combination of adjective and noun, the speaker is defining hell, Satan, and all other evil beings. In addition to the previous examples of kenning, “bold-hearted men” is also another example. To portray a brave, courageous, and valiant man, the speaker utilizes this combination. Kenning can be found throughout “Beowulf” and has various meanings with each example.
B3. The Anglo-Saxons believed heavily in the concept of fighting as honorable. They would earn their respect from warriors. At the beginning of Beowulf, it is said that “what honor the athelings won”. Anglo-Saxons also believed that the King had to display heroic ideals and must be courageous. In Beowulf, “a good king he” is described for his commendable duties. As for Anglo-Saxon women, their responsibility was mainly to try and keep the peace, although it was nearly impossible. Regarding Beowulf, the queen is described as the people’s “peace-bringer”, further illuminating this idea. The Anglo-Saxons were also strong believers in fate. It is mentioned that “fair life fate had sent her”. At the beginning of Beowulf, one of the first things said is “fate repaid him”. They believed that God had helped them to win battles. “holy God wielded the victory” is one thing stated in Beowulf. There is a strong connection found between the Anglo-Saxons and Beowulf.
"Exclusive Medieval Articles - Christianity in Beowulf." Shadowed Realm - Medieval History Community.
Web. 19 Dec. 2011.
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"Anglo-Saxon Culture." Washington State University - Pullman, Washington.
Web. 19 Dec. 2011.
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Stephen Hynes
Period D
Beowulf
B1:
Caesura is a complete pause in a line of poetry or text to cause a desired effect. Caesurae were common in Old English and are most definitely present in Beowulf. Just in the beginning it is stated that the folk “heard his mandate, gave him gifts: a good king he!” The part “a good king he!” is meant to have a pause before it so the effect and emotion of reading that line is more jubilant and centered on the king being good. When talking about battle and the ship being used “with breastplate and blade:” then goes on to “on his bosom lay a heaped hoard” and changing subject. The caesura used was to change the focus and the pause signified the change of subject that was about to ensue.
B2:
Kenning is the joining of multiple preexisting words to create a meaning for something without creating a new word. For example, “whale-path” is the phrase used to describe the ocean. It is the mode of transportation that whales uses, and contains the paths that they take, hence whale-path. At this time, there was no word for boat. A boat sails on the seas and at that time was made out of wood and the term sea-wood became the name used to describe a boat. In this society the women took care of the children and kept peace at home, whereas the men defended the community. The women, keeping the peace at the home front, were stated to be a “weaver-of-peace” when married.
B3:
The Anglo-Saxons were very keen on fighting and successes in fighting were seen as honorable, and the king was honored by his successful conquests. Their preferred mode of settlement was battle, and it was easier for them to handle. Their kings got into power by being successful and staying successful. The chieftain was given “such honor of combat, that all his kin obeyed him gladly” when they won in combat, and it allowed the lord to recruit young men for their next battle. The honor and success of the king relied on his battle records, much like those of the Anglo-Saxons. Much like the Christians, the up-and-coming religion of the time, God was a very powerful influence. There were many direct references to God, the Creator, the Lord. Elements of Christianity are effervescent throughout Beowulf. Some sang of how the “Almighty made the earth” and life for all, which are highly Christian beliefs. The influences of religion on literature is extremely evasive and shapes the cultures and beliefs of those who love and live by these stories.
Gummere, Francis B. (Translator). Beowulf. New York: P.F. Collier & Sons, 1910.
Stephen Hynes
Chaucer
CA:
The Squire, introduced as son of the Knight, young and strong “With locks well curled, as if they’d laid in press” is vivacious and full of life. At the young age of about twenty, the Squire is in search of his lady’s grace, all the while frivolously singing, writing, sketching, jousting, and dancing with the energy and ability of the strong, young man that he is. Not only willing and able, the young Squire is also humble and courteous, not pompous and rude.
High and mighty, while elegantly put together sat the Merchant with his forked beard and secret: he was in debt. Being a merchant, he knew of trade, currency exchange, buying, borrowing, trading, and selling. Being a solemn man, he was understated and unsuspected of having troubles or losses, for he only spoke of his wins. Although he is one with debt, and one in a tricky profession, he is still a worthy man with his wit and integrity.
“He could roast and boil and broil and fry, and prepare a stew, and bake a tasty pie” he could make almost anything, but what he could not do was treat a wound. The Cook was talented without a doubt, but the sore on his shin may propose troubles. But the Cook is unfazed by this minor setback; he turns to alcohol to drown out the pain and any problems that the sore may give him. He is one who worries little and just goes with the flow.
CB:
One guy has on shades and a Dr. Pepper shirt, one has a lame hat and a Maryknoll High School Japanese Club 2005 shirt, and the other has a cool hat on with a heinous brown striped shirt on.
CD:
Hearing the narrator speak the Middle English definitely clarifies the unfamiliar spelling and how it should be pronounced. The tone of the narrator started off almost bored, but definitely started to sound more excited and spoke with more energy when he got to line five. The way he pronounces every letter, like the ‘es’ at the end of londes, shires, croppes, and corages resembles Spanish in the sense that the ‘e’ and ‘s’ are pronounced separately and not as just one sound.
Stephen Hynes
CE:
Shifting from the Pardoner’s tale to his explanation of what he does and his pardons, Chaucer juxtaposes the persona of the Pardoner and the tale he tells in “The Canterbury Tales” by using strong irony and mocking tone in order to convey his own views about religion and morality through his characters and stories.
The Pardoner is a man who collects an offering to give people a “pardon” of their sins and reserve a space for them in heaven for after they die. This story that he tells contains themes of greed, sin, Death, and morality. The Pardoner’s tale itself is ironic. Three men go out in search to find Death and ‘kill’ it. Due to greed, when one goes away to get food for them to share, the two left behind with the money they found plan to kill the third, where the third one plans to kill the other two by poisoning them. In the end, they all wind up dead due to their greed for money. What is ironic about this is they all tried to get more money for themselves and they all wound up with nothing. What is ironic of the Pardoner to be telling this story is what the three men did. They all had thoughts of killing, and all three successfully committed homicide on each other and outright said that they did not feel guilty about this sin they knowingly were committing. The Pardoner is all about forgiving sin and being remorseful, but his story inversely reflects his beliefs. What it does directly reflect about the Pardoner’s character, however, is the intense amount of greed he has for money. It is almost as if the Pardoner is knowingly taking people’s money to ‘pardon’ them while at the same time not even believing it to be true.
Where the Pardoner seems to not think that his profession is true, it reveals Chaucer’s beliefs on the matter. He inserts his own beliefs into the story by illuminating his ideas in the characters and accentuating them in their personas. With the Pardoner’s tale he creates an ironic situation where the men in the story go out to seek Death for vengeance, and just find money that they all actually wind up dead from their greed of the money, and find Death in dying. This illuminates that Chaucer believes that nothing good can emerge from greed, yet he creates a character who makes ‘pardons’ for a price, and is very adamant on selling them. With this story he also has the characters create excuses for what they are doing trying to make it moral in their eyes. It is almost as if Chaucer is mocking what people in society believe to be moral.
CA. The first pilgrim that Chaucer introduces in “The Canterbury Tales” is the Knight, of which he speaks very highly. He explains how he is a real gentleman, and from the start of the trip he loved truth, honor, freedom, and courtesy. The Knight was in the sovereign’s war and is honored everywhere for his worthiness. He fought in 15 moral battles, and fought for faith at Tramissene. When placed in a duel, he always killed his enemy and foe. Although the Knight is very strong and brave, he is also very wise. He could be characterized as the perfect, noble knight. As for appearance, the Knight wears a tunic of simple cloth that is stained and discolored.
The Merchant is another pilgrim that Chaucer introduces towards the beginning of the prologue. He sat high on a horse with a forked beard in a motley gown. On his head he wore a Flemish beaver hat. The boots that he wears on his feet are fastened neatly and elegantly. Solemnly, he spoke out his opinions, mainly focusing on the times that he won rather than lost. The Merchant is knowledgeable on how to deal foreign currencies in regards to buying and selling. He is skilled at keeping things to himself for no one knew that he was in debt. He manages his trade affairs with bargains, borrowings, and shares. Chaucer describes the Merchant was a “worthy man withall”.
One of the last pilgrims that Chaucer discusses is the Pardoner. He had come straight from the court of Rome for the journey. His hair is “yellow as wax”, very smooth, and down to his shoulders. Chaucer explains how he seems to ride in the latest style. He has shiny eyes like those of a hare. The Pardoner is equipped with a knapsack full of pardons. He possessed a voice that sounded like a goats and did not have a beard or any facial hair. He had a pillowcase in his bag and had a piece of the sail that Saint Peter had used to sail across the sea. In addition, he had a “latten cross set full of stones” and some pig’s bone in a bottle. In church he was a fine ecclesiast. He was capable of reading a lesson or story, but his main talent was singing an offertory. He wanted to receive money from the crowd, so he would sing “so merrily and so loud”.
CB. To start, this “dope” rap version of the Prologue of “Canterbury Tales” was extremely disturbing and concerning. Rapper number one was wearing a red Dr. Pepper shirt with jeans and sunglasses. The wonderful rapper number two was African American. He was wearing a long sleeved brown and beige striped shirt, and was also wear a beige baseball cap. The last rapper was wearing a black shirt with something about his high school Japanese club on it. He was wearing a grey hat with blue and white on it. This rap was interesting, to say the least.
CD. Although the speaker’s voice was difficult to understand, it helped decode the passage. He spoke with eloquence and interest. When speaking, he utilized pauses to emphasize the importance of a specific sentence. The speaker also incorporated different tones in the recording to illuminate essential descriptions. Also, he employs emotion in his speech in order to demonstrate the significance of certain lines. He speaks at noticeable different tempos when describing certain things from the prologue. At the beginning, he speaks very slowly when explaining the time of year. However, as the passage continues, he begins to speed up when discussing people and places.
CE. In the introduction, Chaucer introduces the Pardoner and describes several things about him. He explains how the Pardoner manipulates people to receive money. He uses flattery, and sings loudly and merrily, in the hopes of receiving silver. It says that he is a fine ecclesiast, but he is practically stealing money from people. In the Pardoner’s Tale, three men are searching for Death. On their search, they find gold instead. They are trying to split the gold between the three of them. Once they finally figure it out, the first two say they want to murder the third one so that they can split the gold just between them two. After they think of this idea, the third one thinks of how to poison the first two. Because of this, the Pardoner’s Tale is ironic. The Pardoner preaches about being gluttonous and how it is a bad thing, but all three men are being greedy with the money. He explains how it is sinful to murder, but the third man ends up killing the first two. It is ironic that the third one kills the first two because when the first two men were plotting against the third, they said that he was the weakest and least intelligent out of the three of them.
The irony of the Pardoner’s Tale complements that of the tale itself. The Pardoner’s job is to forgive people of their sins, but while doing so he commits many of his own. He takes advantage of people by flattering them to receive extra money. The Pardoner could simply read a story or lesson, but he decides to sing because it will bring him the most money. In comparison, the three men are on the search for Death, but they find gold on their way. Because they were too consumed in the idea of gold, they did not accomplish what they were supposed to. Instead of killing Death, they ended up dying due to their greed and gluttony.
Chaucer’s tone can be described and characterized as mocking and ironic. In the Pardoner’s Tale, the Pardoner makes it a point in one of his sermons to tell that one must not swear and one must not use the Lord’s name in vein. Throughout the tale, Chaucer does so. This also relates to Chaucer’s attitude towards religion and morality. It seems as though he does not take it seriously and it is not something that is important to him. In the story, he writes against all of the laws and rule of God. He writes of gluttonous, sinful people. In the Pardoner’s Tale, the third man was going to poison the first two without any repent and remorse. This further demonstrates Chaucer’s lack of interest when it comes to religion and morality.
Part G. The first panel (farthest to the left) depicts Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden with Jesus. It seems as though he is telling them not to eat from the Tree of Knowledge. The scene is generally peaceful, except for the figure in the middle, which resembles Satan. The middle panel illustrates how the world is overpopulated. It is difficult for people to survive and prosper with so much competition around them. The last panel illuminates the destruction of the human race. All people have been destroyed and killed by something. This picture also resembles Hell in a way.
The conversation is between Chaucer and the Pardoner. The audience is each other and the readers of the conversation. The topic is the image, particularly the one of the right.
Chaucer: Wow, what an interesting picture. I wonder what it means.
Pardoner: I wonder as well. It seems very dark and evil.
C: Do you think it resembles Hell?
P: I suppose, but I don’t like to think that I didn’t forgive that many people of their sins.
C: Ha, probably because you were too busy collecting your money from singing.
P: Perhaps. It seems to me that the image is representing the human race and its destruction.
C: Yes, I agree. Everyone is dead due to the insanity of the world.
P: What a shame.
Kate Ledbetter
B1) A caesura is a pause in lines of poetry. Throughout the work of Beowulf, the reader can find caesura's somewhat frequently. One example of a caesura found in Beowulf is "high in the hall: there harps rang out", the colon indicates a pause in the line, known as a caesura. The pause is for the reader, so they know how to read it correctly and that it could possibly mean something deeper.
B2) A kenning is a figurative or compound expression that is put in place of a noun. In Beowulf, the use of kenning's
is very popular. A burial ground is known as an "earth-hall"
for example. The two words put together replaces using
burial ground as the noun. Another example is "stone cliffs"
meaning rocks, for armor Beowulf uses "mail shirt." They
are expressions meaning the exact word they are replacing within the work.
B3) Within Beowulf, Anglo-Saxon, and Christianity are both
represented. The beliefs and concepts of each religion are
scarcely scattered throughout the work. Anglo-Saxon is all
based on honor, respect, courage, and virtue, and all of
those aspects can be found throughout Beowulf. Praising
"Scyld" (5) for winning, and what "honor" (5) he brought
upon shows one aspect of this religion. His attending of the
"Shelter of God" (6) shows his true virtues. The people
show him respect for what he has accomplished, "gave him
gifts: a good king he!" (5). What Scyld accomplished is all
based on courage, he was a "warrior" (5) for "Scandian
Lands" (5). Scyld and the people all show the aspects that
represent Anglo-Saxon.
CA) Three of Chaucer's pilgrims that he introduces in his
prologue and introduction are the Knight, a Nun, and a
Monk. He described the Knight as a "gentlemen" meaning
he was polite. The Knight believed in "truth, honor,
freedom, and all courtesy." He fought in fifteen battles and
did so with honor. "Though so strong and brave he was
very wise" as Chaucer described him. He dressed simply in
a tunic, "discolored and stained.
"The Nun or Prioress was "modest" and "coy." Her name was Madam Eglantine and "she sang the service device". At the table her manners were perfect and she never left
one morsel of food. She was "pleasant, amiable-in short"
and she was very affectionate and caring of everywone and
everything. She wore a "small coral trinket on her arm" and
a "graceful" cloak where she also hung a brooch.
For the Monk, he was a "manly man" that liked to hunt. He
was fond of horses and had a stable full of them which he
would ride. He "followed new-world manners in their place." He rid his horses "day and night" and had
greyhounds "as fast as a bird in flight." His sleeves were
made of fur, and also had a "love-knot" pin under his chin
to fasten his hood. Bald he was and also fat he stood, he
had bulgy eyes and "certaintly he was a fine prelate."
Marc Daitch
B1
An example of caesura is “No man is able to say in sooth, no son of the halls,
no hero 'neath heaven, -- who harbored that freight!” Where there is the --, there is a break in the poem. When it is read, the reader pauses. This also separates the two thoughts within the sentence.
B2
Kenning is when authors in old English did not yet invent a word to mean something, so they create a word themselves; an example of this is whale-path. The author of Beowulf did not know the word sea, so he used whale-path instead, meaning the place whales travel through, or the sea. Another example is a mead-house. He was trying to say bar, but bars and taverns had not yet been invented. A third example is breaker-of-rings. With this he is trying to say kings, because they used to break golden rings they wore.
B3
Many Anglo-Saxon values are used throughout Beowulf. One major value is a love of and being loyal to your leaders. This is one value used through out Beowulf. Even at the very beginning, they are giving gifts to the earls. They also respect Hrothgar very much throughout the poem. Beowulf is always asking his permission and showing the utmost respect.
Jawanda. "Anglo-Saxon Values in Beowulf." Web. .
Marc Daitch
CA
The monk is not like many other monks. HE seems to be a more modern, less orthodox type of monk. He is described as liking hunting, and most monks do not hunt. The usually value the life of other creatures, and do not harm them. He also is a very large man, also unusual of a monk. He eats when he wants to, and has a happy life style. Most monks usually constrain themselves and do not eat too much and spend most of their time preaching and studying, not hunting and eating.
Another character is the knight. He is the perfect knight. He believes in chivalry, is very nice, and has fought a lot of tough battles, and has won all of them. He is adored for all the wars he has fought in. But on thing is different. He is wearing normal clothes. He is not armor, or any other attire that would signify he was of importance. This shows that he does not care about being recognized as an important person. He wants to just go on his pilgrimage and not be known as the heroic knight. He is a knight to protect the country, not to be famous.
Then there is the merchant, who is the exact opposite of the knight. All that he walks about is his accomplishments. He wears the nicest clothes he can find, and tries to look as nice as he can to impress everyone. He is debt though. This show the reader he is not actually a very good merchant, he just tries to look like he is.
CB
One of them is wearing a black t-shirt with his high schools name on it and a striped hat. Another is wearing a Dr. Pepper t-shirt with sun glasses. The third is wearing a striped brown button shirt with a hat on at an angle.
CD
The narrator’s pronunciation helped to decode the passage very much. He would pronounce some words the same way they are pronounced in modern English, even though they are spelt much differently. One example of this is breeth. The narrator pronounces it breath, which helps to understand what Chaucer is saying.
Marc Daitch
CE
The Story of the pardoner is very ironic. The pardoner does what he does for the money. He does not do the religious part of it to be a good person or to help people, but only to make money. This is not the reason most pardoners become pardoners. They usually do to feel closer towards their religion, not to make money. He even went to church to sing, because people that went gave him money for singing. He does everything for the money.
Also, the juxtaposition of putting the pardoner last is very important. Because he is last, he will be every important to the poem. He is the last person you learn about before the story, so he will be the best remembered during the story. By placing the introduction of the pardoner last, he is setting up the rest of the poem to involve him. If it was placed in the middle, them the reader would not think of his story as nearly as important, and, might not have paid as much attention. By putting it at the end, it implies importance towards it.
From the pardoner’s personality, we can conclude that Chaucer believes religion to be very corrupt. Since he does all of the jobs in the church for money, and only money, we can conclude he believes this about all religion. Also, the monk is not very religious, which can allude to the pardoner not being religious. With both of these religious people being somewhat corrupt, we can conclude Chaucer believes all religion to be of that nature. Also, we can conclude that Chaucer is not very religious. Since he has a very negative connation towards religion in general, he is most likely not religious.
Part G
1) The painting is depicting three parts of man kind’s creation and destruction. In the first panel, God is creating the first humans, Adam and Eve. The earth is just being created is this picture. In the second panel, the earth is in its prime. The humans and animals are prospering. They are both living together fine and appear to be enjoying it. But in the third panel, it is very opposite. The entire Earth is in a war, there are dead animals and humans throughout it. The sky has gone from blue to black. The war and essentially the humans are destroying the earth.
2) “This painting clearly has to do with religion,” Chaucer said. “I believe it is saying that religion will destroy the world,” the pardoner replied. Chaucer answered with “And of coarse they are right.” I am not so sure about that,” the pardoner told him. “Religion is corrupt, and will lead to war,” Chaucer said. “I do not know if I would call it corrupt now,” the pardoner said. “You yourself only practice for the money.” “That does not mean it is corrupt. I do not believe this picture.” The pardoner told him.
Kate Ledbetter part two
CB) The attire of the three MC's were normal. One of them
was wearing a black shirt, a plaid hat, and brown
sweatpants. Another one was wearing sunglasses, a red
Dr.Pepper shirt, and jeans. The last MC was wearing a
white hat, a striped collared shirt, and jeans.
CD) The audio recording of the Prologue in the Middle
English sounded entirely like a different language. The
narrator's voice was quiet and he spoke slowly.
Pronunciation and the accent of the narrator made it so
much clearer as to how Chaucer wrote and talked, himself.
Both the pronunciation and accent along with his emphasis
helps understand and take in consideration the passage
and it's meaning.
CE) Transitioning from an indignant to a devious mood,
Geoffrey Chaucer of the "Pardoner's Tale", utilizes evident
irony, thorough characterization, and certain opinion, to
illustrate how people's mind process can change in the
matter of an instant without realizing "who hereabout
makes all the people die" could end up being yourself.
Irony is found all throughout the entire work, every aspect
of the tale is ironic. The pardoner is said to be "religious"
but he is also a drunk so it's hard to believe if the tale is
true or not. The irony only starts with the pardoner but
furthers itself into the tale even more. The "three roisterers"
who heard about death taking another life were planning to
"slay this traitor Death." As they started to search in a
"drunken" rage for Death they came upon an old man that
told them where Death was. When they found "florins of
fine gold" each wanted it for themselves and ended up
killing each other. As they were so desperate and keen on
slaying Death, they became hypocrites and brought Death
upon themselves.
Chaucer's tone is very subtle but he is in a way mocking the three men and the pardoner. He characterizes himself
as if he is better than them. He does not agree with the
story that the pardoner is telling and he also does not
necessarily believe in the same religion that the tale
expresses. The drunkness of the pardoner and the three
men make the tale a joke to Chaucer and mock them for
being hypocrites.
Religion and morals are very important to Chaucer and
when they are belittled in any way he makes comments on
it. He has his own views on religion but feels very strongly
about it. His morals is what he lives by and he feels that
others should do the same. The "Pardoner's Tale" is the
perfect example of how Chaucer would not live his life and
would look down upon due to his religion and the morals
he lives by.
G) In the left panel the scene being depicted is the start of
life. The man and woman are Adam and Eve. God is the
man in the cloak telling them what they must do. Adam and
Eve's job is to continue human life and take care of the
animals and earth they are given. The earth is there home
and they have a huge job to fulfill.
Depicted in the scene in the right panel of the painting is progress that Adam and Eve made, and human kind itself. It shows how human population has extended and how animals, water, and the land can be very benificial to them. It also shows figures in the back that humans must have figured out how to build. It shows that Adam and Eve have fulfilled the duties that God had given them.
B1: A caesura is a complete pause in a line of poetry or in a musical composition. In the context of Old English and in Beowulf, there is a caesura every four syllables. This is convenient, as each line only has eight or nine syllables. An example of a caesura would be in the following passage: “gave him gifts: a good king he!” (pg. 5, line 11). The indication to the caesura is the colon. I believe this to be a caesura because it adds an emphasis to his attribute as a good king, as the stanza is dedicated to this man.
B2: Kenning may be defined as a reference to something, a representation, or alternative, especially when footnoting what Old English terms actually mean. For example, “There laid they down their darling lord on the breast of the boat, the breaker-of-rings, by the mast the mighty one.” “Breaker-of-rings” is “kenning” for a great leader, king, or chieftain. This is denoted through repetition by first referencing their leader as “their darling lord”, and later “breaker-of-rings”. Later, the use of “earls'-defense” is kenning for Beowulf, not only noted through context but through the combination of the two words, “earl” and “defense”. Due to the lack of development in vocabulary, many words were combined to make reference to another term, as in this case. Finally, another example of “kenning” would be the following; “famed-one's” in reference to Beowulf’s death. Being at the conclusion of the work, it also has the greatest emphasis, being that the entire work is culminated in Beowulf’s death, immortalizing him.
B3: The indigenous religion of the Anglo-Saxon people was closely related to Germanic paganism. However, through the years of retelling and warping of the Beowulf epic, many Christian beliefs were incorporated into the story. Characteristics of paganism include polytheism, sacrificial offerings, and worship in sacred groves rather than temples, among others. In the text, the heavy influence can be seen when, “the Lord endowed him, the Wielder of Wonder” (Beowulf 5), indicating Beowulf’s divine nature being chosen by God. Only shortly after, the author tells of how “come warriors willing, should war draw nigh” (Beowulf 5), an attribute more closely related to the Anglo-Saxon aspect of their culture; it suggests the glory and honor in conflict. Interestingly enough, Grendel’s character is something of a fusion between Christianity and the Anglo-Saxon culture. He is referred to as “Grendel this monster grim was called, march-riever mighty”. As footnoted by the arranger of this translation, Grendel was a pagan nuisance and probably embellished with the characteristics of a biblical fiend. The purpose of this was “so that all Christian Englishmen might read about him”, another indication to the merging of two cultures.
Bibliography
Beowulf
Anonymous Translator Francis B. Gummere
P.F. Collier & Sons
New York
1910
Harvard Classics, Volume 49, edited by Charles W. Eliot
Prepared for the University of Virginia Library Electronic Text Center.
CA: The Knight is the first of the characters that is introduced by Chaucer. His personality is characterized by his chivalry, truthfulness, honor, and courtesy. He is a capable warrior, having fought in many battles. An honorable man as account by both Christians and heathens, he was solemn as well.
The squire is a young man, yet to be betrothed, very lively. He was of medium height and of reasonable strength. He was also literate, composing poems and songs in his free time. This squire is the epitome of life and happiness, being the “spring of his youth”.
The Frere, or Friar, is a man of a jovial nature, yet also important in stature. Strangely, he is also flirtatious and had several failed marriages. His voice is pleasant and he is very personable, making him one of the best beggars in his house.
CB: The MC is wearing a red shirt and is sporting a pair of sunglasses.
CD: The voice and enunciation of the speaker surprised me. The language itself is much more fluid than I had anticipated, yet I feel as though I could catch glimpses of German, Swedish, and French in there, as well as other accents that I could not name. The speaker’s voice is very soothing and it is fit for a propaganda/subliminal messaging recording. The strangest part I found about the recording was that every letter was pronounced as it is originally taught. For example, soothe is pronounced “soo-th-eh”.
CE: The pardoner’s tale is incredibly ironic in relation to his life because he is not practicing what he preaches; the moral of his story is that everyone needs forgiveness and must shuck all avarice and negative humanistic tendencies, yet he himself leeches off his fellows and compatriots. The Pardoner is the greatest sinner among them, yet he is the one forgiving them and ensuring that they all may go to heaven.
In the story, there are several instances of irony, the first being that the men are seeking Death to bring it to justice, a noble cause, yet in the end they all kill each other out of greed. Similarly, the Pardoner claims a similar role; he puts on a mask of friendship and service, yet makes a living off of what is supposed to be a noble act.
Chaucer’s tone is cynical and darkly light-hearted. The story of the pardoner is tragic yet humorous at the same time, as is the situation that the pardoner is in. Chaucer perhaps may have been betrayed at some point.
Chaucer’s views on morality and religion are that they are relative terms and to judge a person by those aspects must require more than what is socially acceptable and initially stated. The morality of the Knight is steadfast, yet he is the one who most strongly supports the most corrupt character of the “Tales”. Similarly, the Pardoner practices a religion closely, having been employed by the church, yet steals money form unsuspecting victims. Thus, Chaucer gives us a word of caution, that the people are not as they seem.
CG: The first panel is a depiction of heaven. The image is not as cluttered as the other two and it is primarily composed of light hues. This is an image of heaven, with all the animals and presumably Adam and Eve there with God. In the second panel, there is a depiction of Earth as it is now, with all of its good and bad. The beasts are subjected to the humans. In the third panel is a depiction of hell with all of the carnal sins being committed.
C: An interesting painting don’t you agree?
P: It is a perfect depiction of today’s society. Men are fickle creatures.
C: Too much so. I wonder, perhaps this is can be seen as a timeline?
P: In what way? You’ve lost me.
C: Look here. I assume those two people are Adam and Eve, next to God, at the beginning of the world. Then, there’re lots of people on Earth, then there is Hell. Perhaps the painter is trying to tell us something?
P: An interesting point. What intrigues me is that bouquet of flowers sticking out of that man’s behind in the middle panel. Have you ever seen that before, Geoffry?
C: Where is it, I don’t see it. Where? Are you pulling my quill?
P: No, it’s right there. Two inches from the center, bottom right. He has his head in a lady’s lap. Don’t know what its doing there.
C: By God, you’re right!
P: That painter needs to purchase an indulgence. Shame on him. My, my, this middle panel is rather astonishing. And look over there, in the water, there a bloke feet in the air and a cherry between his legs with a bird sticking-
C: Yes, well, as you are being captivated by that, I find the Hell panel much more interesting.
P: snortsYou think so? It’s the smallest. Why would you be interested in that?
C: Just because it’s the smallest doesn’t mean that it’s any less important. Look. The other panels are similarly colored, yet this one is completely different. It’s all dark and gloomy. Kind of just like you, eh?
P: I beg your pardon. Knyght, says that despite my gloomy appearances, I am the epitome of youth and all that is good in the world. Not everything that is ugly is evil.
C: Well it certainly implies. Anyways, look there-
P: Thanks mate.
C: What?
P: Never mind, continue. I can give you a discount later anyways.
C:… Okay then. Anyways, you can see all of the major sin being committed and there’s no surprise to any of it except for one part.
P: What’s that?
C: I’ll tell you in a moment.
P: Come on mate, don’t do that to me-
C: I was kidding. Look. The harp and the lute on the left hand side. What are those doing there? Is he saying that all musicians are eternally damned?
P: Well if that’s the case, I would agree. I have yet to here a confession from a poet or musician. I’m not sure if I want to either. The things they’ve done. Shivers.
C: How would you know what they’ve done if you’ve never heard a confession?
P: Oh, my fellow brothers tell me all about them. Apart from their utter lack in hygiene, and horribly rampant, flowery, prose, they have no sense of punctuality either.
C:… I’m sorry, but what do personal health, writing style, and life style have anything to do with each other?
P: Well, for starters, it’ll get them into Hell.
I still have 2 more pieces for C and part G but i wanted to get it up
CA: To begin, Chaucer tells of the Knight, he characterizes him as a very worthy and true man. He is chivalrous and courteous, he values freedom and is very loyal to his King; he would travel to the ends of the earth for his King. The knight was honored for his respectability, dignity, and eminence, and very often he sat in the seat of honor. From the way Chaucer described the honor of the knight I can assume that he is of middle to high class because it is never said, although anyone respected by the King so much and in such high place of honor must be fairly well off. Knowing that the poor of that time period were not respected much tells me that he isn’t of lower class. His appearance was that typical of a knight, he wears a gypon, a surcoat worn over armor, which was typical to knightly appearance.
Chaucer then tells of the young Squire, he was twenty years young and a very jolly young man; he spent entire days singing and whistling. He is described as a lusty bachelor; he was of medium height and had the physique of an active athlete. He seems to be well educated, since he is able to read and writes well and most poor folk of the day were not literate which leads me to believe that he had some higher social standing. Chaucer states that he had the desire to serve and was very courteous, and being a Squire he is in service of his father, the older more experienced knight; this young man will most likely follow in his father’s footsteps.
To contrast the higher standing of the knight and squire Chaucer introduces the Yeman, the freeborn servant who is a servant no longer. The once servant was clothed as if he was ready to take on the world, he carried arrows, a sword and a nicely ornamented dagger. The man had a brown, worn face taken on by a man who has known what it was to be a servant and now knows to be free. By his appearance he appears to Chaucer to be a game-keeper, his green attire blends him in to the forest in which he hunts. He looks to be a true man who makes an honest living, by choice he is along for the ride.
CB: The attire of the MC’s consists of a Dr. Pepper t-shirt and aviator sunglasses on one of the fellows, a tan and black and white vertical striped shirt complete with an off white cap on another, and on the last of these OG’s is a high school club black shirt, and a blue, olive green, and white cap that will surely protect his eyes from the sun.
CD: The narrator has a kind and soft spoken voice, but to be honest his voice didn’t help me to decode the message at all. The way he speaks and his rhythm helps to pronounce words and the pace that it should be read at, but it doesn’t help to understand the words. His accent gives it an English feel and it is the accent it is supposed to be read in. The emphasis helps if there is a rhyme it is more easily spotted.
B1. A caesura is found to be the grammatical pause or a break in between the lines of poetry. This does occur frequently in Beowulf. This is usually dictated by a sense of natural speech rhythm and not necessarily by metrics. An example of caesura is shown where the colon is found in the poem, such as the following: “Since erst he lay friendless, a foundling, fate repaid him: for he waxed under welkin, in wealth he throve, till before him the folk, both far and near, who house by the whale-path, heard his mandate, gave him gifts: a good king he!” The poem is broken up into parts to give the reader a break from reading a long run on sentence. This stops the reader for moment, before they continue on with the reading. The grammatical pause in the middle of the poem would be known as a caesura.
B2. A kenning is a figurative, or a compound expression, used in the place of a name or a noun, especially in the Old English and the Old Norse poetry. A kenning is usually found with two words joined by a hyphen, which is shown in Beowulf. Words such as “spear-armed”, mead-house”,“ evil-spirits”, “ocean-travelers”, and “death-shadow” are some examples of kenning. In Modern English, “evil- spirits” are known as demons, and “ocean-travelers” are also known as seamen.
B3. The Anglo Saxons were a group of Germanic people who have inhabited the fifth and eighth centuries. Anglo-Saxons did speak Old English, which was the name that the scholars gave to the language. This group did value the physical world of nature, loyalty, warriors, the tribe, and their leaders. This group was also considered pagans, and their holidays also centered on nature and the Earth. Christianity however stared to have an influence on them and their ways did change. Throughout Beowulf, these values and ways of life do stand out.
For example, Beowulf hightlights the Anglo-Saxons pride in war when said “If force in fight no feebier I count me, in grim war-deeds, than Grendel deems him”. In a certain way, the Anglo-Saxons did worship their war heroes. Another value was their pride and honor. In the beginning of Beowulf, the quote “shall an earl have honor in every clan” shows off their immense pride in their honor. Overall, the life of the Anglo-Saxons was dictated by their value of honor and war.
WriteWork Contributors “Anglo-Saxon Values in Beowulf”
WriteWork.com, 15th December 2006. Web 16 Dec 2011
CA. In the prologue of the Canterbury Tales, it starts off with a knight, who was not only a gentleman, but was known for his love in “chivalry, truth, honour, freedom, and all courtesy.” This knight is honored everywhere for being the heroic figure that he is. This brave knight has won all battles including Alexandria, Latvia, Tramissene, and Turkey, and didn’t lose any sight of temper when something didn’t go his way. He was looked up to for his worthiness, and “always won his widespread fame for prize.” He didn’t let anyone down, and was “a truly perfect, noble knight.”
Then there’s the knight’s son, Squire, who was a lover and a lively bachelor at twenty years old. Just like his father, he was “wondrously active, agile, and great of strength.” He was always the heartthrob to women, and he spent every day as if it was his last. He may not be a knight like his father; however, he did have a talent for jousting, dancing, sketching and writing. He was willing to do everything that he can for himself, for other people, and the world, making him “carved before his father at the table.”
There was also a nun, or a “Prioress”. She was known for her modesty and smile, and “her greatest oath was but ‘By Saint Eloy!’ ” This nun was actually named Madam Eglantine. She became known for her divine voice in singing, and for being very fluent in French. There was evidence that she grew up, learning the manners that were necessary in her childhood, including table manners, and how to eat properly. She even had to learn “that no drop could fall upon her breast” and that no mess should take place at the dinner table. She was also known to be pleasant, charitable, solicitous, and a good sport for herself and for other people.
CB. In the Canterbury Tales rap, this group (veryredyak) mixes today’s modern world of rap and hip hop, with Old English of the past centuries. One man was wearing a red “Dr. Pepper” shirt, with jeans and sunglasses. Another man was wearing a black shirt which said “Murryknoll High School Japanese Club of 2003”, dark jeans and a white hat. And the third man was wearing a light brown striped shirt, a dark brown t-shirt underneath, black pants, and a white baseball cap. It took place out in a park with graffiti all over a concrete wall.
CD. In the audio recording of the Prologue, it was difficult to comprehend what the man was saying in Old English. The recording of Middle English decodes how people spoke during the century of Old English, and sort of the culture that took place. It almost sounds as if French was also spoken during the century.
CE. In the Pardoner’s Tale, it was shown off as selfishness amongst the characters. The three rioters drank, reveled, and indulged in all forms of excess. They gambled and even swore; they did everything that was considered a sin to God. While drinking, “an unseen thief, called Death, came stalking by.” He held a corpse and walked by. The three drunken men followed until they found gold under a tree. With excitement, the three men do everything that they can to plan on taking the gold without people noticing. The more they split up and try coming up with a plan, the more selfish hey each become and want the gold for themselves. One man was killed when coming back from town for the gold. The men celebrated with wine that contained poison; however, they didn’t know and died instantly. The Pardoners continued on their way.
The Pardoners Tale was painfully ironic, as “Greed is the root of all evil”, and it doesn’t change. As they say the men walk by with a dead corpse, they didn’t think too much about it as they saw the gold under the tree. They only thought about themselves and what their futures would be like if they were able to have the money for themselves. It eventually took a toll on them when they start becoming selfish, and tried committing homicide for money, and instead only killed themselves. They didn’t get the gold after all. Things that may seem good can go wrong due to selfishness and control.
Chaucer’s tone throughout “The Pardoners Tale” was found not only to show greed, but it was also honest, and hypocritical. He was honest to his own audience by openly admitting his greed. His tone does shift to a more hypocritical when beginning the tale and pausing and lecture about drinking, gambling, and swear, which were all considered a sin to God. It also showed his dislike for religious profit. Overall, Chaucer showed his religion and morality, to teach about how it’s bad committing a sin against God. It shows that greed can become evil. The act of cruelty and selfishness can lead to bad consequences, or in Chaucer’s case, greed can lead to death. Chaucer’s outlook on morality is that good results come from honesty, not gluttony.
G. In each part of Bosch’s painting, it is seen to be three different parts, or three different outlooks only life. On the left it starts out with a man, a woman, and a gentleman of who seems to be God, surrounded by peaceful nature. In the middle, more people take up the value of nature, making the scene more chaotic, but content and happy all at the same time. Everything seemed to go well. In the scene on the right, everything seems more sad and dreary, and the value of nature is gone, looking as if there was nothing but misery. The discussion between Chaucer and Pardoner would be base on how morality is looked upon between honestly and greed. Honestly would take place in the right and middle panel, seeing as how both are in a more peaceful state of happiness, and lack of worry. However, in the right panel, things seem to look more miserable, almost as a sign of greed. If committed a sin against God, this is what the world would look like as a gruesome consequence. Overall, if one is with God, their world can look like the left panel; or against, their life will be in misery such as the right panel.
Ryan Consentino
B1. A caesura is a complete pause in a line of poetry used to emphasize a point that follows. Throughout Beowulf, these appear frequently with a “- -“to signal the reader to pause as well as to signal that what follows is of significance to the poem. An example of caesura in Beowulf comes when it says “when that bale was shown, was seen in sooth, with surest token, - - the hall-thane’s hate”. This serves to emphasize the hall-thane’s hate by showing when the hate was fully shown and what caused it to occur. The - - alludes to the reader that something important is happening and that what is read next should be considered important as is shown with this example.
B2. In Beowulf there is frequent use of kenning which is a combination of two words instead of one single word that was most likely not in existence at the time. One example is the “head-of-armies” or as we may call it nowadays, the general. This word was not in use during old English so in this case, three hyphenated words were used to get the same outcome and to describe the leader of an army. “Mead-house” is also an example of kenning that is used which refers to a pub. This is because mead is the beer that was drunk long ago and a house is where somebody resides and in this case, mead resides there. A “death-field” is also an example of kenning as it uses two words to produce the same definition as a battlefield as a battlefield is where fighting and death occurs during a war.
B3. Throughout Beowulf, there are many concepts that show true Christian philosophy. One of these philosophies found is that “man survives only through the protection of God” (par. 1). This is shown in the epic when “God is able this deadly foe from his deeds to turn!” which means that God is able to protect people from foes and their deadly deeds as it is believed in Christianity. Also, the epic represents the thinking that “All earthly gifts flow from God” (par 1) which is exemplified when Beowulf gives God thanks for sending down a great sword to help him in his fight against Grendel’s mother. Lastly that “man is to be humble and unselfish” as shown in Beowulf several times. Hrothgar tells Beowulf of a greedy king in order to warn him of the dangers of greed. It is believed in the epic that God gives all and that man is merely borrowing everything from God. The religion of Christianity shows true in Beowulf as the thinking found within represent Christian philosophy.
Ryan Consentino
CA. Chaucer characterizes each character in a very distinct way. One that he characterizes greatly is the knight. He starts off by saying that the knight was “a worthy man” (43) which means that he was a gentleman. By saying each of the battles he had partaken in and the things he had done in his life, it can be seen that the knight is very noble and loyal. He fights where he is needed and always does well. Chaucer also says that he was strong, brave and wise and never made any villains. Lastly, Chaucer puts the knight in a lower class than expected by saying that he “of fustian wered a gypon” (75) which is a mere cloth tunic that makes it seem as though he is poor and cannot afford more than that.
Chaucer also characterizes the squire through his appearance, character and class. He says that the squire was a lover with curly hair who was about twenty years old. He was of average height and he was well built and strong. Through the things that the squire does, it shows that he is a happy man as he sings and whistles all day and he was very kind. His social class is seen by his clothing of a robe which seems to put him in the middle class. He was not poor but he was not rich. Also, he is always very courteous and willing to help when able.
Lastly, Chaucer characterizes the yeoman as being somebody of high standing and recognition. He is a true forester type of man and he always has a bow, a sword, and a dagger on him. He also carries a horn. He is wise as is shown through the statement, “wel koude he al the usage” which means he knew all of the uses of woodcraft. He is wealthy as seen by his “cote and hood of grene” and “sheef of pecok arwes”. These things are something that somebody with wealth could posses as they are part of beautiful attire. He also wears much jewelry and is seen as even wealthier when it speaks of the servants that he chose to leave out.