Importance of Clothing in Prologue of the Canterbury Tales :: Canterbury Tales Essays

Importance of Clothing in Prologue of the Canterbury Tales           Countless people believe in the cliche do not judge a book by its cover but why not? Clothing often forms anothers first impression of one. It speaks of where a somebody has been and where they intend to go. Their appearance also illustrates a persons 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 days labor. However, a young woman in a Gucci dress with Versace pumps could be assumed to deliver access to a large amount of money. In The Prologue from the Canterbury Tales, Chaucer uses clothing as an insight into peoples 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 Knights attire would say un dersized 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 harness 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 garments.         The Yeomen succumbs to societys inclination that when he dresses the division 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 to a greater extent successful he will become. Emphasis should be placed on ones achievements and inner self rather than outward appearance. A saucy brace is weak on his arm to protect it from the bow. At first glance, one would assume that he was a superior archer of high standin gs rather then a lowly Yeomen. Looks can be deceiving, but the illusion fades as ones true self shines through. Extravagant dress hat describes the Yeomens style while plain and reserved best depicts the nun.         Chaucer illustrates how small insignificant accessories can have a deeper meaning. The Nun wore a coral trinket on her arm.