The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer, The Pardoner's Prologue

Literature Lesson Plans - Sykalo Eugen 2024

The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer, The Pardoner's Prologue

Grade Level: 9-12 (adaptable)

Time Allotment: 2 Class Periods (60 minutes each)

Learning Objectives:

  • Students will be able to analyze the character of the Pardoner in "The Canterbury Tales" based on his Prologue.
  • Students will be able to identify and interpret literary devices used by Chaucer, such as satire and irony.
  • Students will be able to discuss the social and religious criticism present in The Pardoner's Prologue.
  • Students will be able to consider the concept of hypocrisy and its relevance in literature and society.

Materials:

  • Copies of The Pardoner's Prologue from "The Canterbury Tales" (in modern English translation)
  • Whiteboard or projector
  • Markers/pens
  • Chart paper
  • Dictionary (optional)

Lesson Procedures:

Day 1: Meeting the Pardoner (60 minutes)

  1. Hook (10 minutes): Begin with a discussion about professions and stereotypes. Ask students to brainstorm what qualities they associate with different professions (e.g., doctor - trustworthy, teacher - knowledgeable).
  2. Introducing the Pardoner (10 minutes): Briefly introduce Geoffrey Chaucer and "The Canterbury Tales." Explain that the Pardoner is one of the pilgrims on the journey to Canterbury.
  3. Reading and Close Reading (20 minutes): Distribute copies of The Pardoner's Prologue in a modern English translation. Students can read independently or in pairs. After reading, guide the class through a close reading activity, focusing on specific lines that reveal the Pardoner's character. Underline key phrases, identify descriptive words, and discuss the tone of the language.
  4. Unmasking the Hypocrite (20 minutes): Divide the class into small groups and have them analyze the Pardoner's character. Encourage them to discuss the contradictions between the Pardoner's appearance, his profession (selling relics), and his own admitted behavior. Use chart paper to list evidence that supports the Pardoner's hypocrisy.

Day 2: Literary Devices and Social Commentary (60 minutes)

  1. Literary Devices (15 minutes): Review literary devices like satire and irony. Ask students to identify examples of these devices used by Chaucer in The Pardoner's Prologue. How does satire help expose the Pardoner's hypocrisy? How does irony contribute to the humor and critique?
  2. Social and Religious Criticism (20 minutes): Discuss the social and religious climate of Chaucer's time. How does The Pardoner's Prologue criticize the Church and its practices (e.g., selling of indulgences)? Are there any social groups being satirized?
  3. The Power of Words (15 minutes): Focus on the Pardoner's eloquent speech despite his flaws. How does he use his language skills to manipulate others? Discuss the concept of hypocrisy - how can someone with bad intentions use persuasive language?
  4. Modern Connections (10 minutes): Wrap up by discussing the concept of hypocrisy and its relevance today. Can you think of any modern examples of hypocrisy in society or popular culture?

Assessment:

  • Participation in class discussions and group activities
  • Short writing assignment analyzing the Pardoner's character and the use of satire in the Prologue
  • Creating a visual representation of the Pardoner based on the text (optional)

Differentiation:

  • Provide a glossary of Middle English terms or annotations within the text to support struggling readers.
  • Offer extension activities for advanced students, such as researching the history of indulgences or comparing The Pardoner's character to other literary hypocrites.

Extension Activities:

  • Have students write their own short monologue from the perspective of another pilgrim on the journey, reacting to the Pardoner's character.
  • Research and present on different literary devices used by Chaucer in "The Canterbury Tales."
  • Watch a film adaptation of "The Canterbury Tales" and compare the portrayal of the Pardoner to Chaucer's text.

This lesson plan focuses on The Pardoner's Prologue as a window into understanding character, literary devices, and social commentary in Chaucer's work. By actively engaging with the text and exploring its themes, students will gain a deeper appreciation for "The Canterbury Tales" and its enduring relevance.