Assignment No.

1
Semester 3rd
Autumn 2023
Course Code
9054
Program
BS English(ODL)

Allama Iqbal Open University

Submitted to
Miss Tazeen us Sama
Student ID
0000354151
Date
25-Jan-2024
Q.1 Chaucer manages both criticism and forgiveness of his ecclesiastical
characters' Illustrate with reference to two such characters portrayed by
Chaucer.
Ans: In Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales," he presents a diverse array of
ecclesiastical characters, each with their own virtues, flaws, and complexities. Two
such characters are the Prioress and the Friar, who offer contrasting examples of
criticism and forgiveness in their portrayal.

1. THE PRIORESS (MADAME EGLANTINE):

Chaucer's depiction of the Prioress reflects a critical view of certain aspects of
ecclesiastical life during his time. While the Prioress holds a position of authority
within the church, her behavior and attitudes reveal a superficial piety and misplaced
priorities. For instance, Chaucer describes her as wearing a "coronal" and a "grace"
around her neck, which symbolize her desire for worldly adornment rather than
spiritual humility. The fact that she wears a brooch with the inscription "Amor vincit
omnia" (Love conquers all) suggests a focus on secular sentimentality rather than
genuine religious devotion.
Furthermore, the Prioress's affection for pets, particularly her lapdogs, and her
excessive concern for their well-being highlight her worldly attachments and lack of
asceticism. Chaucer's portrayal of her as weeping over the death of a mouse and
insisting on feeding her dogs roasted meat reflects a disconnect between her
professed religious ideals and her actions. Through these details, Chaucer critiques
the hypocrisy and moral laxity that he perceives within certain sectors of the clergy.

2. THE FRIAR (HUBERT):

Chaucer's portrayal of the Friar offers a more nuanced depiction that combines
criticism with elements of forgiveness and understanding. While the Friar is depicted
as morally compromised, using his position within the church to exploit others for
personal gain, Chaucer also presents him as a complex and multifaceted character.
The Friar's skill in singing and storytelling, as well as his engaging personality,
endear him to those around him despite his flaws.
Chaucer suggests that the Friar's behavior is influenced by the corrupt practices and
moral ambiguity inherent in the social and institutional structures of medieval
society. The Friar's willingness to bend the rules and manipulate others to his
advantage reflects the moral ambiguity of his environment rather than inherent
malice. Chaucer's portrayal of the Friar as a product of his circumstances invites
readers to consider the complexities of human nature and the impact of societal
forces on individual behavior.
In sum, Chaucer's portrayal of the Prioress and the Friar in "The Canterbury Tales"
reflects his nuanced approach to the criticism and forgiveness of ecclesiastical
characters. While the Prioress embodies certain vices and shortcomings that Chaucer
critiques, the Friar is depicted with a degree of empathy and understanding,
acknowledging the complexities of his character and the societal influences that
shape his behavior. Through these portrayals, Chaucer invites readers to reflect on
the moral complexities of his time and the possibility of redemption and forgiveness
in the face of human frailty.
Q.2 Analyze at least three different types of satiric techniques used by Chaucer
in relation to his personages in The Prologue.
Ans: In “The Prologue” of The Canterbury Tales, Geoffrey Chaucer employs
various satiric techniques to humorously and subtly criticize the vices of the
society. Some of the techniques used by Chaucer include:

IRONY:
Chaucer’s humor is characterized by irony, where he exposes the vices of the
society in a subtle and gentle manner. For example, he presents supposedly pious
religious figures as corrupt and greedy just underneath the surface, and he spares
no one, not even himself, in his satirical portrayal of the characters.
Chaucer employs various forms of irony in “The Prologue to the Canterbury Tales”
to humorously and satirically highlight the discrepancies between the pilgrims’
outward appearances and their true natures. Some of the ways he uses irony
include:
Verbal Irony:
Chaucer uses verbal irony to highlight the contrast between the stated purpose of
the pilgrimage and the actual behaviors of the pilgrims. Many pilgrims claim to be
devout and pious individuals, yet their actions and tales often reveal their moral
shortcomings.

Situational Irony:
Situational irony can be seen in the dissonance between the religious nature of the
pilgrimage and the actual behaviors of the pilgrims. The fact that they embark on a
religious journey but often engage in unreligious activities creates situational irony.

Irony in Characterization:
Chaucer’s characterization of the pilgrims often involves irony, such as presenting
supposedly pious religious figures as corrupt and greedy just underneath the
surface, thus using irony to satirize their true nature.
Chaucer’s use of irony in “The Prologue to the Canterbury Tales” serves to offer a
satirical commentary on the complexities of human behavior and society during his
time, revealing the vices of the society in a subtle and gentle manner.

PARODY AND EXAGGERATION:

Chaucer uses parody and exaggeration in "The Canterbury Tales" to satirize and
critique various aspects of medieval society. Parody is employed to highlight
certain societal aspects in an exaggerated manner, amusing the readers while also
offering social commentary. The use of satire, humor, irony, and exaggeration
allows Chaucer to reveal and criticize the vices of the society, making his work
both entertaining and socially critical. By employing these literary devices,
Chaucer effectively conveys his views to his audience while providing a vivid
illustration of the culture and class system of the medieval ages. This use of satire
and exaggeration aids Chaucer in revealing corruption, critiquing patriarchy, and
appraising class and nobility within the society. Overall, Chaucer's use of parody
and exaggeration in "The Canterbury Tales" serves as a means to humorously and
effectively critique the various aspects of medieval society.
CHARACTERIZATION AND DESCRIPTION:
Chaucer’s use of characterization and description in English literature is
characterized by realism, minute details, and a keen observation of human nature.
He is known for creating realistic and extraordinary characters, painting them with
minute details, and presenting universal characters in “The Prologue to the
Canterbury Tales” that are still relatable in modern times. Chaucer’s art of
characterization is commended for its ability to portray characters objectively,
impartially, and disinterestedly, depicting what he personally sees and blending
emotions with every story. He sketches numerous characters in “The Canterbury
Tales” and provides detailed descriptions of their behavior, belongings, dress, and
sound, showcasing his exceptional art of characterization. Chaucer’s use of
characterization and description allows him to effectively satirize and critique the
various classes and professions of medieval society, revealing the vices and
complexities of human behavior in a subtle and gentle manner.

Q.3 What is 'Sonnet Cycle? Illustrate with relevant examples from

Shakespearean sonnets.

SONNET CYCLE:
A sonnet cycle, also known as a sonnet sequence, is a collection of sonnets that are
interconnected thematically or narratively. Typically, a sonnet cycle consists of a
series of sonnets, each following the traditional sonnet form, that together form a
cohesive narrative, explore a central theme, or depict a sequence of events.
Sonnet cycles became popular during the Renaissance period in Europe,
particularly in England and Italy. Writers such as Petrarch, Sir Philip Sidney,
William Shakespeare, and Elizabeth Barrett Browning are known for their
contributions to the genre.
In a sonnet cycle, individual sonnets may stand alone as independent works, but
they are often arranged in a specific order to create a unified whole. The sonnets
within the cycle may share common motifs, characters, or narrative threads,
allowing the poet to develop complex themes or tell a story across multiple poems.
Sonnet cycles offer poets a structured yet flexible format for exploring a wide
range of emotions, ideas, and experiences. They provide a framework for thematic
exploration, character development, and narrative progression within the confines
of the sonnet form.
Overall, a sonnet cycle is a poetic sequence composed of interconnected sonnets
that together form a cohesive whole, allowing the poet to delve deeply into a theme
or narrative arc while showcasing their mastery of the sonnet form.

The structure of a Shakespearean sonnet:

The structure of a Shakespearean sonnet consists of 14 lines written in iambic
pentameter and a specific rhyme scheme. The rhyme scheme is ABAB CDCD
EFEF GG, which means the first and third lines rhyme, as do the second and
fourth, and so on, with a rhyming couplet at the end. The sonnet is typically
divided into three quatrains (four-line stanzas) and a final rhymed couplet. An
example of a Shakespearean sonnet is “Sonnet 18: Shall I compare thee to a
summer’s day,” which follows this structure and rhyme scheme.
Q.4 Discuss some salient features of classical poetry with special reference to
the classic texts included in your syllabus.
Ans: Classical poetry refers to the poetic traditions of ancient civilizations,
particularly those of Greece and Rome, which have had a significant influence on
Western literature and culture. Some salient features of classical poetry, with
reference to classic texts, include:

1. FORMAL STRUCTURE:

Classical poetry typically adheres to strict metrical and formal conventions. In

ancient Greek poetry, for example, the epic poem "The Iliad" by Homer follows a
dactylic hexameter meter, while in ancient Rome, poets like Virgil employed the
dactylic hexameter in their epic poem "The Aeneid." These formal structures
provide a sense of rhythm and musicality to the verse, contributing to its aesthetic
appeal.

2. USE
OF MYTHOLOGY AND CLASSICAL
THEMES:
Classical poetry often draws upon mythology, legends, and classical themes for
its subject matter. Epic poems like "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" by Homer are
replete with references to Greek gods and heroes, while Virgil's "The Aeneid"
recounts the mythological origins of Rome. Classical poets also explore timeless
themes such as heroism, fate, honor, and the human condition, reflecting the values
and beliefs of their respective cultures.

3. NARRATIVE TECHNIQUE:
Many classical poems employ narrative techniques to tell stories or convey moral
lessons. Epic poems like "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" are characterized by their
extensive narrative scope, featuring epic heroes and grand quests. Meanwhile,
didactic poetry, such as Hesiod's "Works and Days," provides practical advice and
moral guidance to the reader through storytelling and allegory.

4. USE OF FORMAL DEVICES:

Classical poets often utilize formal devices such as simile, metaphor, epithet, and
repetition to enhance the beauty and expressiveness of their verse. Homer's
epithets, such as "rosy-fingered dawn" or "wine-dark sea," are iconic examples of
the use of imagery and descriptive language in classical poetry. Similarly, Virgil
employs vivid imagery and powerful metaphors in "The Aeneid" to evoke
emotions and convey complex themes.

5. EMPHASIS ON ORAL TRADITION:

Classical poetry was often intended to be performed or recited aloud,
emphasizing the importance of oral tradition and storytelling in ancient cultures.
Epic poems like "The Iliad" were originally transmitted orally before being written
down, and their rhythmic meter and repetitive phrases were designed to aid
memorization and oral performance.
Overall, classical poetry is characterized by its formal structure, use of mythology
and classical themes, narrative technique, formal devices, and emphasis on oral
tradition. Through classic texts like "The Iliad," "The Odyssey," "The Aeneid," and
others, classical poets have left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and
influence poets and readers to this day.
Q.5 Discuss Spenser's 'The Faerie Queene' as an allegory.
Ans: “The Faerie Queene” by Edmund Spenser is a renowned epic poem
characterized by its extensive use of allegory. The entire poem is an allegory,
meaning that the characters, events, and settings all represent abstract qualities,
concepts, and moral or ethical ideas. For example, in Book I, the Redcrosse Knight
represents Holiness, and the character Una represents Truth, Goodness, and
Wisdom. The poem’s allegorical elements allow Spenser to explore and convey
complex themes, including moral integrity and religious purity. The allegory in
“The Faerie Queene” serves to communicate its message through symbolic
representation, making it a work that operates on moral, religious, and political
levels.
The poem was originally conceived ”o be a religious-moral-political allegory in 12
books, with each book consisting of the adventures of a knight representing a
particular moral virtue. However, only six books were completed. The Faerie
Queene also serves as a historical allegory, dealing with important religious events
of the age and personal and historical elements.
In summary, “The Faerie Queene” is a multifaceted allegorical work that delves
into various moral, religious, and political themes through its representation of
characters and events, making it a significant piece of Renaissance English
literature.