Geoffrey Chaucer was an English poet whose most famous work was "The Canterbury Tales." The Canterbury Tales continues to be recognized for the beautiful rhythm of Chaucer's language and his characteristic use of satirical and intelligent wit. (A+E Networks) According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, satire is a literary form in which human or individual vices, follies, abuses, or failings are censured by means of ridicule. (“Satire” Encyclopedia Britannica) In this case, when each character in The Canterbury Tales stands up to speak, Chaucer slips in a few remarks that might offend the audience to make his point. The three main places where Chaucer's satire is important are in the general prologue, when the Wife of Bath speaks, and when the Pardoner speaks. To begin with, Chaucer uses satire in the general prologue. This prologue begins by explaining how a group of people go on a pilgrimage. The narrator then takes the time to explain many of the people actually present. Within the framework of satire, we get characteristics that are considered typical of certain professions, but extremely exaggerated. (Shmoop Editorial Team) Some examples might be the wart on Miller's nose or the oozing cat wound on Cook's leg. Since knights are supposed to fight battles, the knight in this story has fought in virtually every battle for the past twenty years! At the time, women were considered lustful but married. The woman of Bath mentioned had five husbands, not counting her many lovers. In introducing the Prioress, Chaucer uses satire by saying, “She was indeed by no means undeveloped” (line 160), implying that she was perhaps a little chubby. The intended audience for this section of writing is commoners and middle-of-the-road...... middle of paper ...... y Chaucer. " Bio True Story. A+E Networks, nd Web. November 24, 2013. .Day, Lauren. "What is Chaucer satirizing in the tale of the Pardoner?" Ask.com, nd Web, November 24, 2013 .Felbi, KM “Romance, Satire and Contradictions on Chaucer's Wife of the Adolescent.” 2013. Shmoop Editorial Team. Shmoop University, Inc., November 11, 2008. Web. November 24. 2013. .