Characterization Information


The Middle Ages is one of the most interesting and colorful time periods in history. The research questions in part one of this activity will give you only a brief glimpse into the people of the time and how they lived. It will also demonstrate how Chaucer creates characters that help us understand the complexities of the historical time period. Your task will be to look at the specific character that you have chosen, research the questions using first your book then the internet and report to the class your findings.

With your assigned group, answer the following questions about your assigned character.


Research questions:
What specific occupation does your character practice?
What does the need for this occupation tell us about the time period?
What was his or her social standing?
What might your character’s day to day life be like?
What details about this character does Chaucer not include?
This includes what is this character's physical appearance, what they are wearing, etc.
Do you find anything about the way Chaucer has portrayed this character physical surprising?
What modern day occupation might correspond to your medieval character and why?


Aaric, Brittney, TationaThe Knight

Kristen, Dylan, AJ The Wife of Bath


Jamal, Lindsay, Trevor G.The Pardoner

Camila, Daniel, The Miller

Jacob, Julianna The Monk

Jacobi, Karlie, JoeyThe Friar

Chris, MaggieThe Summoner

Richie, Trevor W. The Parson

Shanna, Brianna, KellyThe Prioress