General Prologue-In Support Of The Monk

One reason that could be used to support the idea that the Monk is a man of poor character is his complete disregard for tradition. The narrator states, “This ilke Monk leet olde thinges pace,/And heeld after the newe world the space”(175-76)., showing that the Monk had little interest in things of tradition. The Monk even goes as far as to say, “lat Austin have his swink to him reserved”(188), showing complete disregard to the rules of the St. Augustine. This trait, however, is only frowned upon in professio

Therefore, when the monk is examined compared to other people, his actions are seen as moral, and acceptable. It is only within the setting of the monastery that the Monk is perceived to be a man of weak character. The Monk, it seems, is nothing more than a man who has chosen the wrong career. So while the Monk’s personality is, indeed, inconsistent with his profession, he still possesses excellent traits and talents outside his line of work. Perhaps the Monk would have found much more success, and less criticism, as a Squire, a Franklin, or even a businessman.

The next trait that the could be interpreted as a reflection of poor character is the Monks love affair with hunting. Again, however, this is merely a conflict of personal and professional interests, and not a matter of a faulty personality. It seems almost unfortunate that a man of whom the narrator says, “Of priking and of hunting for the hare/was al his lust, for no cost wolde he spare”(191-2), finds himself in the position of a monk, where hunting is looked down upon.

The final trait may lead some to suggest that the Monk possessed weak character was his passion for material goods. This desire to be attractive, and eat well, however, is another characteristic for which no one would look down on the Monk if he was anything other than a monk. While it is true t

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