Dorigen

Definition

Dorigen is a key character in 'The Franklin's Tale' from Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales', representing themes of gentillesse, loyalty, and the complexities of love and marriage. She is the wife of Arveragus, who embodies the ideal of noble behavior and honor, while also navigating societal expectations of fidelity and desire. Through her choices, Dorigen illustrates the tension between personal happiness and adherence to vows.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dorigen is portrayed as a strong-willed and devoted wife, highlighting the struggle between her love for Arveragus and her feelings towards Aurelius.
2. Her internal conflict centers around her promise to Arveragus and the pressure she feels from societal norms regarding marriage.
3. In the tale, Dorigen's decision to offer a seemingly impossible condition to Aurelius showcases her cleverness and her desire to maintain her marital vows.
4. Dorigen's character challenges traditional gender roles by actively participating in shaping her own fate rather than being a passive figure in the story.
5. Ultimately, Dorigen's resolution illustrates the theme of forgiveness and understanding, as she reconciles her feelings for both men in a way that upholds her values.

Review Questions

• How does Dorigen embody the qualities of gentillesse within 'The Franklin's Tale', particularly in relation to her relationships with Arveragus and Aurelius?
  • Dorigen demonstrates gentillesse through her loyalty to Arveragus, showing deep love and respect for him while navigating her feelings for Aurelius. Her struggle reflects a noble character torn between personal desire and commitment. Ultimately, she seeks to remain honorable by creating a challenge for Aurelius, showcasing her wit and maintaining integrity within her marriage.
• Analyze how Dorigen's actions influence the outcome of 'The Franklin's Tale' and reflect on the themes of honor and marriage present in her character.
  • Dorigen's actions significantly impact the plot by introducing a moral dilemma regarding loyalty and commitment. Her promise to Arveragus coupled with her attraction to Aurelius creates tension that drives the story forward. By setting an impossible condition for Aurelius, she effectively preserves her honor while also highlighting the complexities of marital expectations and societal pressures on women during this era.
• Evaluate the role of Dorigen in challenging traditional gender roles within 'The Franklin's Tale' and discuss how this affects reader perceptions of female agency.
  • Dorigen challenges traditional gender roles by taking control over her own narrative, actively engaging in dialogue with both Arveragus and Aurelius. This portrayal provides insights into female agency during a time when women were often depicted as passive. By making decisive choices that affect her future, Dorigen reshapes reader perceptions, presenting women not just as adherents to societal expectations but as individuals capable of navigating complex emotional landscapes.

Related terms

Gentillesse: A concept in medieval literature referring to nobility of spirit and conduct, often associated with virtuous behavior and moral integrity.

Arveragus: Dorigen's husband in 'The Franklin's Tale', who represents the chivalric ideals of honor and respect for his wife's autonomy.

Fidelity: The quality of being faithful to one's partner or commitments, crucial to the dynamics of Dorigen's relationships and choices in the tale.