Federalism in Action – Research Paper
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“The Pardoners Prologue” (pages 170-172)
According to the pardoner, what does he always use as the text of his sermons?
Radix maloram est cupiditas. (The love of money is the root of all evil)
2. A pardoner was licensed to sell papal pardons or indulgences to shorten ones souls time in purgatory. Does this pardoner truly care about what happens to those to whom he sells pardons? Identify the lines in the prologue which reveal his attitude.
He doesnt care about what happens to peoples souls once they die “And not at all to castigate their sin. once dead what matter how their souls may fare? they can go blackberrying, for all i care!” Lines 20 – 22
3. What irony does the pardoner himself recognize in his occupation?
He is greedy even though he is preaching against greed.
“The Pardoners Tale” (pages 173-180)
1. What had the three rioters been doing as the tale begins?
They were sitting in a tavern for a drink.
2. How had Death taken the life of the man the previous night?
He was slain when he was face up and drunk. (Stabbed in the heart)
3. What warning does the boy give about meeting Death?
If you should meet him, you had best be wary, and be ready to meet him anywhere.
4. What do the rioters then vow to do?
They all vow to go and kill the traitor (death).
For questions 5-8, refer to lines 108-132:
5. How do the rioters treat the old man?
They dont treat him very well. They asked why he isnt dead yet.
6. What does their treatment of the old man reveal about them?
That they arent very caring people.
7. Why is the character of the old man included in this tale?
He is a foil in this story. He represents wisdom and age.
8. What purposes do the story of his life and views about death serve?
People have no xontrol over death
9. Where does the old man tell the rioters that they will find death?
Under the tree.
10. What did the rioters find under the oak tree?