Character Analysis
On this page you will find more in-depth descriptions of the characters in The Nun's Priest's Tale. These paragraphs describe the characters and provide information present in accurate online sources. This can be used as both a study guide to prepare for an exam or reading material if a person is interested in this tale.
It should be noted that Chaucer did not create this tale completely. “The “cock and fox” story is much older than Chaucer, but he characteristically reshapes his source material in a highly original way.” (The Nun’s Priest’s Tale)
Chanticleer- In the section where Chanticleer is described, the poem greatly details how good looking he is. This rooster is also described as having a jolly voice. One can guess that the chicken is proud of the position, because it states extensively as to how well the chicken preforms his many tasks. He also seems very used to dealing with Peterlote, as he quickly launches into a few stories about why dreams really do matter. It also seems that Chaucer could have gotten the inspiration for a character like Chanticleer from a phoenix. A phoenix is a mythical bird said to be very magnificent and flamboyant.
Lady Pertelote- She seems to be a nice, companionable chicken that is in love with Chanticleer, but soon loses that interest after Chanticleer awakens from a nightmare screaming, saying that she could never marry a coward. This suggests that she is very easily swayed, as well as quite judgmental. On the other hand, maybe she just has very clear views on what she wants from a spouse. However, later it is shown that she loves him dearly.
Sir Russell- It can be assumed that the fox was the ‘demon’ that Chanticleer had a nightmare about. The fox is a treacherous murderer in the eyes of a reader, because this fox is quick and sly. The fox is later shown to be a good deceiver, as he easily lies to Chanticleer. However, this fox should not be conceived as evil, because the fox was only looking for food to get through the day. If we were to use this same method of thinking on everything, Therefore, this fox should not be seen as evil, and he does not view himself as evil. The fox also shows that he is a bit gullible, when Chanticleer convinces him to open his mouth.
The old woman- She seems very dedicated. Most likely works hard for the survival of her two daughters that are mentioned in the beginning of the tale. Other than what has been said, nothing else is revealed about the woman’s character.
The Nun’s Priest- He is an awkward storyteller, because he often interrupts the story to tell tales or give his own opinions or recommendations. She seems to also be somewhat wise and insightful, as he hints of many flatterers wishing to fool others after talking about the treacherous fox on page 227. However, she does seem to be a good storyteller. “Had the pilgrims completed their round trip, “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale” no doubt would have contended strongly for the prize, for it is one of the tales combining a pleasing proportion of both entertaining and instructive elements and has justly become a favorite among Chaucer’s readers.” (The nun’s priest’s tale)
Chanticleer- In the section where Chanticleer is described, the poem greatly details how good looking he is. This rooster is also described as having a jolly voice. One can guess that the chicken is proud of the position, because it states extensively as to how well the chicken preforms his many tasks. He also seems very used to dealing with Peterlote, as he quickly launches into a few stories about why dreams really do matter. It also seems that Chaucer could have gotten the inspiration for a character like Chanticleer from a phoenix. A phoenix is a mythical bird said to be very magnificent and flamboyant.
Lady Pertelote- She seems to be a nice, companionable chicken that is in love with Chanticleer, but soon loses that interest after Chanticleer awakens from a nightmare screaming, saying that she could never marry a coward. This suggests that she is very easily swayed, as well as quite judgmental. On the other hand, maybe she just has very clear views on what she wants from a spouse. However, later it is shown that she loves him dearly.
Sir Russell- It can be assumed that the fox was the ‘demon’ that Chanticleer had a nightmare about. The fox is a treacherous murderer in the eyes of a reader, because this fox is quick and sly. The fox is later shown to be a good deceiver, as he easily lies to Chanticleer. However, this fox should not be conceived as evil, because the fox was only looking for food to get through the day. If we were to use this same method of thinking on everything, Therefore, this fox should not be seen as evil, and he does not view himself as evil. The fox also shows that he is a bit gullible, when Chanticleer convinces him to open his mouth.
The old woman- She seems very dedicated. Most likely works hard for the survival of her two daughters that are mentioned in the beginning of the tale. Other than what has been said, nothing else is revealed about the woman’s character.
The Nun’s Priest- He is an awkward storyteller, because he often interrupts the story to tell tales or give his own opinions or recommendations. She seems to also be somewhat wise and insightful, as he hints of many flatterers wishing to fool others after talking about the treacherous fox on page 227. However, she does seem to be a good storyteller. “Had the pilgrims completed their round trip, “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale” no doubt would have contended strongly for the prize, for it is one of the tales combining a pleasing proportion of both entertaining and instructive elements and has justly become a favorite among Chaucer’s readers.” (The nun’s priest’s tale)