Harry Bailey, the jolly and enlightened host of Tabard Inn, heartily welcomed the pilgrims. In order to reduce the tedium of the journey, it was suggested that each member of the party shall tell two tales on the way to Canterbury and two on the way back. It was further proposed that the person who narrates the best story be treated by all the rest to a supper on return to Tabard Inn. The proposal was whole-heartedly accepted by all and the result is the Canterbury Tales. But actually only twenty-three pilgrims narrated the stories. Chaucer’s pilgrims proposed to visit Canterbury in April 1389.

Theme of Prologue to Canterbury Tales :

The Theme of Prologue to Canterbury Tales is the characterisation of all the pilgrims in true colours without any reservation. In other words, Chaucer presents a picture gallery of medieval life. In the Prologue, all the characters are individualised and presented with a touch of humour.

1.  

2. Knight : Knight is a pilgrim who is introduced first. He is a worthy, brave and chivalrous person who has taken part in many military expeditions and exhibited his valour and adventurous spirit. He is gifted with the noble qualities of a Knight. He reflects the fading chivalrous spirit of the medieval age. He has taken part in fifteen mortal battles, all for the defence of his religion.

    

    

3. Squire : The squire who attended the Knight is the son of the knight himself. Chaucer presents him as a ‘lusty bachelor’. In the Middle English period, bachelor meant ‘a trainee for Knighthood’. He was physically very strong, but humble and courteous. He is pictured as ‘fresh as is the month of May’. He represents the rising spirit of chivalry, which is luxurious and less idealistic.

    

    

4. Yeoman : During the fourteenth century, Yeoman meant ‘an attendant’. The Yeoman was the protector of forests and game warden well-equipped with a sword and buckler, a dagger and a mighty bow.

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