A Line-by-Line Analysis of the Knight’s Character in The Canterbury Tales

Introduction

In Geoffrey Chaucer's masterpiece, The Canterbury Tales, the Knight's character is meticulously crafted to exemplify the chivalric ideals of the medieval period. This article delves into the nuances of the Knight's portrayal, providing a line-by-line analysis based on scholarly editions such as the Riverside Chaucer.

Noble and Honorable

The description of the Knight begins by emphasizing his noble and honorable qualities:

Noble and honorable - The Knight is described as a noble and honorable, indicating a person of high moral and ethical standing. This phrase heralds a character whose actions and demeanor align with the highest ideals of chivalry.

Experienced Warrior

Chaucer's portrayal of the Knight is also significantly influenced by his martial prowess:

Experienced warrior - He has fought in many crusades and has a reputation for bravery. His experience in battle indicates that he is not just a nobleman by birth but has earned his status through deeds. This line suggests that the Knight's reputation for bravery and experience in battles, particularly in the holy crusades, underscores his standing as a seasoned and revered warrior.

Adherence to Chivalric Ideals

Through his character, Chaucer encapsulates the quintessential chivalrous ideals:

Adherence to chivalric ideals - The Knight embodies the chivalric code which includes virtues like loyalty, bravery, and courtesy. He is a paragon of what it means to be a knight in medieval society. This stipulation clearly defines the Knight as a symbol of chivalric values, embodying bravery, loyalty, and courtesy in his conduct and actions.

Simple but Dignified Appearance

The description of the Knight's attire is equally revealing:

Simple but dignified appearance - His attire is modest, he wears a tunic stained from battle, which reflects his practical nature and commitment to his duties rather than vanity or extravagance. Here, Chaucer underscores the Knight's modesty and commitment, highlighting his practical and dedicated approach to his role and responsibilities.

Respectful and Humble Character

Despite his high status, the Knight's humility and respect are noteworthy:

Respectful and humble - Despite his high status, the Knight does not boast about his achievements. He is portrayed as humble and respectful which adds to his noble character. This portrayal emphasizes the Knight's character as being reserved and modest, adding depth to his noble persona.

Contrast with Other Characters

The Knights virtues stand in stark contrast to some of the other pilgrims, such as the Squire and the Pardoner:

Contrast with other characters - The Knights virtues stand in stark contrast to some of the other pilgrims such as the Squire who is more concerned with courtly love and appearance or the Pardoner who is corrupt. This contrast emphasizes the Knight's integrity and moral superiority, setting him apart from those who prioritize superficiality or moral corruption.

In conclusion, the Knight in The Canterbury Tales is a complex character representing the ideal knight of the medieval period. Defined by his military prowess, adherence to chivalric values, and humble demeanor, the Knight serves as a central figure among the pilgrims, embodying the aspirations and standards of his time.

References

Alex Johnston, The Collapse of Answers. The Riverside Chaucer (Berkeley: University of California Press, 1987).