Customer Reviews

A good read for historical context, or just interest - By: , 01 May 2001
'The Merchant's Tale' is one of many of 'The Canterbury Tales'. Not only does it fitin well with the overall pilgrimage that Chaucer is relaying, but it is also stands well as a book alone. The story of Januarie & his hunt for the perfect wife is toldin such an intricate & complex way, that it has a variety of interpretations. There are many arguments, for example relating to who is speakingin the marriage encomium at the beginning - is it Januarie, or the Merchant? The strong use of comic effects, especially satire, also make the book more accessable on a wider spectrum of levels. The interweaving levels of thought, coming from Januarie, the Merchant & Chaucer, leave the book very open to individual interpretation & a wide maze of enlightening discussions