We briefly review the Shipman's Tale, and then consider at length the Prioress' Tale. While modern commentary on this tale focuses on the anti-Semitic tones present, this certainly would not have been the primary impression of those who first read the Canterbury Tales. Therefore, we consider the Prioress' Tale, first on it's own terms, and only later do we consider modern criticism and commentary.
Furthermore, we note the genius of Chaucer who is able to write in such different styles and from such diverse perspectives. It is striking to note how different the Shipman's Tale is from some of the other more raunchy tales (even thought the Shipman's Tale is equally immoral), and then see Chaucer turn from these themes to such pious reflections on child martyrs and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
It is a work of true literary brilliance that Chaucer is able to adopt these varied styles and themes, and keep them together in one masterpiece.
Listen online, part 1 [here]!
Listen online, part 2 [here]!
