THE USE OF IRONY AND SATIRE IN THE CANTERBURY TALES
Keywords:
Keywords: Chaucer, Irony, Satire, The Canterbury Tales, Medieval Society, Social Critique, Literary Techniques, Humor, Hypocrisy, Narrative Style.Abstract
Abstract
This study investigates Geoffrey Chaucer’s use of irony and satire in The
Canterbury Tales, focusing on how these literary tools critique the social, religious, and
moral norms of 14th-century England. Chaucer’s irony frequently highlights the gap
between appearance and reality, revealing hypocrisy, human weaknesses, and
pretentious behavior. Through satire, he examines the conduct of different social
groups—including the clergy, nobility, and peasants—showing the contrast between
idealized values and actual practices.
The paper analyzes key tales such as the Miller’s Tale, the Wife of Bath’s Tale,
and the Summoner’s Tale, illustrating how humor, exaggeration, and irony are
combined to expose vices like greed, lust, pride, and corruption. Chaucer’s use of
multiple narrative voices allows readers to experience a layered social commentary,
making the work both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Moreover, this research emphasizes the lasting impact of Chaucer’s techniques.
His skillful blending of irony and satire not only portrays the complexities of medieval
society but also offers a framework for understanding human behavior and societal
critique in literature. Chaucer’s narrative strategies have influenced subsequent literary
traditions, particularly in the use of humor as a method to reflect on social and moral
issues.
References
References
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FKPTRLWBG5FV
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