Question

1. what is the latin phrase which inspires all the pardoner’s tales? what does it mean? 2) in the pardoner’s prologue, name three of the deadly sins that the pardoner fully admits to committing. 3) in your opinion, which is the worst of the deadly sins? why? please answer using 1 - 2 sentences. 4) what interrupts the rioter’s debauchery? why might this be significant? (bonus: what is debauchery?) 5) where does the old man say death can be found? what do the rioters find when they get there? 6) what does chaucer mean by calling the rioters “devil’s clay” (line 277)? 7) pick any character in this story (pardoner, old man, death, any of the three rioters) and describe someone you know who reminds you of one of the characters. 1 - 2 sentences.

Explanation:

1. The Latin phrase "Radix malorum est cupiditas" (the love of money is the root of all evil) inspires the Pardoner's tales. It emphasizes the corrupting nature of greed.
2. In the Pardoner's Prologue, he admits to committing pride, avarice, and gluttony. These sins are in - line with his immoral and profit - seeking behavior.
3. Greed can be seen as the worst deadly sin as it often drives other immoral actions. It leads to a lack of contentment and can cause harm to others in the pursuit of wealth.
4. The news of Death interrupts the rioter's debauchery. Debauchery means excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures. This interruption is significant as it sets the plot in motion, leading the rioters on a quest related to Death.
5. The old man says Death can be found under an oak tree. When the rioters get there, they find a pile of gold florins.
6. By calling the rioters "devil's clay", Chaucer means they are malleable material in the devil's hands, easily influenced by evil and sin.
7. For example, if we consider the Pardoner, I know someone who is always focused on making money and is not ashamed to use unethical means, much like the Pardoner who preaches against sin while being a sinner himself.

Answer:

1. The Latin phrase is "Radix malorum est cupiditas", which means the love of money is the root of all evil.
2. Pride, avarice, gluttony.
3. Greed, as it drives other immoral actions.
4. The news of Death. It sets the plot in motion. Debauchery is excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures.
5. Under an oak tree. A pile of gold florins.
6. They are easily influenced by evil and sin, like malleable material for the devil.
7. The Pardoner: I know someone always focused on money - making and using unethical means.