The Host/ The Canterbury Tales

What does the host propose?

Something to keep everyone entertained on their journey to Canterbury, a storytelling contest.

What will the winner receive?

a meal paid for by the other 28 pilgrims at the Tabard Inn

How does the host's proposal help set up Chaucer's plan for The Canterbury Tales?

He has introduced the frame into which the individual stories can be placed.

Describe the host.

He is a welcoming fellow who gives everyone good food and strong drink. The host is a striking man with bright eyes and a wide girth. He is wise and tactful, a merry man.

What is the storytelling plan he suggests?

This plan was for entertainment and to pass the time on the long journey he proposed that each pilgrims tell two take in the way there and two on the way back.

How do the pilgrims decide who will begin the storytelling?

The draw straws, the shortest straw tells the first story.

Who will judge the contest

The host will join the group and serve as the judge.

What does Chaucer think of the host?

There is no finer merchant in the area