The resolution of the tale

Definition

The resolution of the tale refers to the part of a story where the conflicts are resolved, and the plot reaches a conclusion. In the context of narratives like the Franklin's Tale, this resolution reveals the characters' true natures, restores order, and often highlights key themes, such as love, honor, and fidelity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In the Franklin's Tale, the resolution ties together various themes such as trust and integrity, showcasing how true love involves sacrifice.
2. The resolution is achieved when Arveragus and Dorigen ultimately forgive each other, emphasizing their mutual respect and understanding.
3. The resolution also reveals the character of Aurelius, who demonstrates nobility by relinquishing his claim on Dorigen after her marriage vows.
4. By resolving the main conflicts in a way that highlights virtue and honor, the tale reinforces the moral message that true love transcends selfish desires.
5. The ending leaves readers with a sense of harmony and balance, reinforcing the ideals of chivalric values prevalent in medieval literature.

Review Questions

• How does the resolution of the tale illustrate the themes of love and sacrifice in the Franklin's Tale?
  • The resolution illustrates love and sacrifice through the actions of both Arveragus and Dorigen. Despite the challenges they face, their commitment to each other prevails as they navigate misunderstandings. Dorigen's willingness to uphold her marriage vows demonstrates her loyalty, while Arveragus’s acceptance of her choice showcases his love through selflessness. This culmination emphasizes that genuine love is about understanding and supporting one another, even at great personal cost.
• Analyze how the resolution of the tale affects character development for Arveragus and Aurelius.
  • In the resolution, Arveragus undergoes significant growth as he embodies chivalric ideals by prioritizing honor over jealousy. His ability to forgive Dorigen enhances his character arc, transforming him into a more noble figure. Conversely, Aurelius’s decision to step back and relinquish his claim on Dorigen showcases his maturation; he recognizes the sanctity of their marriage. Both characters emerge with deeper insights into love and honor through their interactions leading up to this conclusion.
• Evaluate how the resolution serves as a commentary on societal values during Chaucer's time.
  • The resolution serves as a powerful commentary on societal values by emphasizing themes like fidelity, integrity, and honor. In Chaucer's era, these traits were highly regarded in relationships and social conduct. The ending reinforces that true nobility is not merely about social status but about one's moral choices. By depicting characters who uphold these values despite temptation and conflict, Chaucer critiques superficial notions of honor while advocating for deeper ethical considerations in personal relationships.

Related terms

Denouement: The final part of a narrative where the strands of the plot are drawn together and matters are explained or resolved.

Climax: The point in a narrative where the tension or conflict reaches its highest intensity before the resolution.

Character Arc: The transformation or inner journey of a character over the course of a story, often culminating in the resolution.