Character Analysis of the Pardoner

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Bonnell

Lauren Bonnell

Mr. Reynolds

AP English IV

10 December 2012

Character Analysis of the Pardoner

In medieval times, the Church had become predominate in both the culture and domestic affairs of everyday people. The Church was in charge of governing laws, taxing people, and was a big participant in every form of social event from baptism to the funeral. Sadly, with power comes corruption, and the Church was not above this standard. Many churches began to abuse their power and took advantage of the ignorance of the common people. Chaucer’s Pardoner is the embodiment of a stereotypical church official who has become corrupt with power. None of his actions relate to his perceived moral principles, clerical status, or to the theme in his tale.

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The Pardoner spins a tale about how materialism leads humans astray; however, the Pardoner himself indulges extravagantly in materials. In the Pardoner’s Prologue claims, “Radix malorum est cupiditas” (line 4). This translates into “The roos of evil is desire” (1 Timothy 6:10). Right after he declares that he preaches against the desire for money, the Pardoner goes on to explain how he deceives people to earn money. He peddles many false relics and even claims that he desires to get money no matter the cost to those who give it. This is exemplified in lines 26-29 when the Pardoner states ...

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