The Merchant s Prologue and Tale (Selected Tales from Chaucer)
£4.25
A good read for historical context, or just interest - The Merchant s Tale is one of many of The Canterbury Tales . Not only does it fit in well with the overall pilgrimage that Chaucer is relaying, but it is also stands well as a book alone. The story of Januarie and his hunt for the perfect wife is told in such an intricate and complex way, that it has a variety of interpretations. There are many arguments, for example relating to who is speaking in the marriage encomium at the beginning - is it Januarie, or the Merchant? The strong use of comic effects, especially satire, also make the book more accessable on a wider spectrum of levels. The interweaving levels of thought, coming from Januarie, the Merchant and Chaucer, leave the book very open to individual interpretation and a wide maze of enlightening discussions