Honor

Definition

Honor is a complex concept that encompasses personal integrity, reputation, and adherence to ethical principles. It often drives characters’ motivations and actions, influencing their relationships and social standing, especially in the context of chivalric ideals and societal expectations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In 'The Knight's Tale', the concept of honor is closely tied to the ideals of chivalry, where knights must prove their valor through combat and noble deeds.
2. Honor plays a crucial role in shaping the relationships between characters, such as the rivalry between Palamon and Arcite, as they both seek to uphold their honor while pursuing Emily.
3. In 'The Franklin's Tale', the theme of honor manifests in the challenges faced by the characters in maintaining their commitments and integrity in marriage.
4. Gentillesse, or gentility, is intricately linked to honor; characters who exhibit honorable behavior are often seen as noble or deserving of respect.
5. The pursuit of honor can lead characters to make significant sacrifices, demonstrating how deeply ingrained the concept is within their actions and choices.

Review Questions

• How does the pursuit of honor affect the actions of Palamon and Arcite in 'The Knight's Tale'?
  • The pursuit of honor deeply influences Palamon and Arcite’s actions throughout 'The Knight's Tale'. Both characters are motivated by their desire to win Emily's love, which is intertwined with their personal honor as knights. Their rivalry escalates into combat as each seeks to prove his worthiness not only to Emily but also to society’s chivalric standards, showcasing how honor can drive individuals to extreme measures.
• Discuss how the theme of honor relates to the ideas of gentillesse and marriage in 'The Franklin's Tale'.
  • In 'The Franklin's Tale', honor is closely tied to gentillesse and marital commitments. The characters face dilemmas that test their integrity and promises. For instance, Arveragus's willingness to allow Dorigen her autonomy reflects a higher understanding of honor that transcends mere societal expectations. This relationship highlights how true honor lies in mutual respect and fidelity within marriage rather than just adhering to traditional roles.
• Evaluate the significance of honor as it relates to character development in Chaucer's works.
  • Honor is a pivotal factor in character development across Chaucer's works. It acts as a guiding principle for characters like Palamon, Arcite, and Arveragus. Their journeys reveal the complexities of adhering to societal expectations versus personal integrity. By placing honor at the forefront of their motivations, Chaucer critiques and examines the ideals of chivalry and nobility, allowing readers to witness how characters evolve through their struggles for honor in relationships and societal roles.

Related terms

Chivalry: A code of conduct associated with the medieval institution of knighthood, emphasizing virtues such as bravery, courtesy, and respect for women.

Nobility: A social class that possesses high social status, often associated with hereditary titles and a reputation for wealth, influence, and honor.

Reputation:

The beliefs or opinions generally held about someone or something, significantly impacting a character's sense of honor and how they are perceived by others.