The Prologue from the Canterbury Tales: Clothing As An Insight
Countless people believe in the cliche "do not judge a book by its
cover": but why not? Clothing often forms another's first impression of one.
It speaks of where a person has been and where they intend to go. Their
appearance also illustrates a person's true self and aspirations. A man
wearing torn jeans, dingy shirt, and old shoes might be thought of as poor
or coming home from a hard day's labor. However, a young woman in a Gucci
dress with Versace pumps could be assumed to have access to a large amount
of money. In "The Prologue from the Canterbury Tales," Chaucer uses
clothing as an insight into people's ongoing adventure called life.
In the Prologue, humbled by his life experiences, the Knight
dresses plainly. Garbed in a stained coarse cotton tunic, the knight sits
upon his horse. Seen in a different setting, the Knight's attire would say
little about his life as an honorable man. By humbling oneself, a true hero
lends credence to the fact that flash is not always needed. His armor left
dark smudges on his tunic. Humbling experiences cause humans to step back
and analyze the fortune they have; they learn that they do not have to wear
their achievements. Sometimes people boast their success through fine
clothing. Unlike the flamboyant Yeomen, the distinguished knight wears old
The Yeomen succumbs to society's inclination that when he dresses
the part he will become successful. He wears a coat with a green hood. From
a low social standing, he believes that the better he looks the more
successful he will become. Emphasis should be placed on one's achievements
and inner self rather than outward appearance. A saucy brace is worn on his
arm to protect it from the bow. At first glance, one would assume that he
was a superior archer of high standings rather then a lowly Yeomen. Looks
can be decei...