Absalon

Definition

Absalon is a character in 'The Miller's Tale' from Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales', representing the archetype of a young, vain cleric who is infatuated with the beautiful Alison. His role highlights themes of desire, jealousy, and foolishness, serving as a contrast to the other characters in the story. Absalon's actions and personality contribute significantly to the comedic elements of the tale, as well as to its exploration of love and lust.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Absalon is depicted as a well-groomed and self-absorbed cleric, showcasing his vanity and desire for romantic conquest.
2. He attempts to woo Alison by singing and presenting gifts, but his efforts are comically thwarted by Nicholas's clever scheming.
3. Absalon's character contrasts sharply with Nicholas's cunning, highlighting different approaches to love and attraction in the tale.
4. The climax of Absalon's role occurs when he is humiliated after being tricked by Alison and Nicholas, leading to a memorable scene involving a hot poker.
5. Chaucer uses Absalon's character to explore themes of social class and the foolishness that can arise from unrequited love.

Review Questions

• How does Absalon's character contribute to the comedic aspects of 'The Miller's Tale'?
  • Absalon's character adds to the humor of 'The Miller's Tale' through his exaggerated vanity and misguided attempts to win Alison's affection. His over-the-top romantic gestures, such as singing beneath her window, contrast with Nicholas's clever manipulation, leading to comical situations. The ultimate humiliation he experiences showcases Chaucer's use of irony and satire, making Absalon a source of both laughter and critique within the tale.
• Analyze the relationship dynamics between Absalon, Alison, and Nicholas in 'The Miller's Tale'.
  • The relationship dynamics among Absalon, Alison, and Nicholas are characterized by rivalry and manipulation. Absalon represents unreciprocated desire, while Nicholas is portrayed as cunning and scheming. Their interactions highlight the competition for Alison's affection, with Nicholas ultimately outsmarting Absalon. This rivalry not only drives the plot forward but also illustrates themes of lust and foolishness that permeate the narrative.
• Evaluate how Chaucer uses Absalon's character to comment on societal norms regarding love and attraction during his time.
  • Chaucer employs Absalon's character to critique societal norms surrounding love and attraction by showcasing his ridiculous obsession with Alison. Through Absalon's vain pursuits, Chaucer reflects on the superficiality often associated with courtly love ideals. Furthermore, Absalon's eventual humiliation serves as a commentary on the consequences of such misguided desires, emphasizing that love should not be reduced to mere appearances or social status. This analysis reveals Chaucer's nuanced understanding of human behavior and societal expectations in his era.

Related terms

Alison: Alison is the beautiful wife of John the carpenter and the object of Absalon's affection, who becomes central to the conflict in 'The Miller's Tale'.

Nicholas: Nicholas is a cunning student who also desires Alison, creating a rivalry with Absalon that drives much of the plot's humor and action.

Carpenter: John the carpenter is Alison's husband, whose naivety and jealousy set up the comedic situations that unfold throughout 'The Miller's Tale'.