Canterbury as Reflection on Christians?


Jumping off the topic of Christianity and man's struggle, I can understand the concept that Chaucer dwells on Christianity and its flaws through Canterbury Tales. There is definitely a criticism of pilgrimages evident in the text. In terms of critique, I would not consider this a deliberate dig on Christianity as a religion. To me, the idea emerging in through the general prologue descriptions in the flawed nature of humans. Despite the intention to do good or to create the appearance of good, wickedness creeps in. The critique of the church is apparent in the shady dealings of church officials, like the Prioress and the Monk. Some of the other characters, however, are merely using the guise of religion to hide from their own crimes. This seems to not be a fault toward Christians but directed at the institution itself. I would be more inclined to argue that Chaucer is criticizes the church and its operatives. If there's one thing to be learned from the characters, it is definitely that humans are not what they seem. The church allows pirates to hide on land, monks to profiteer, priests to form monopolies. These people are represented on the pilgrimage. There are also charitable and respectable people represented as well. With any religion, Islam being a prime example in our present state, there are the extremists or the people who use religion for bad.
-Lauren Sandelius