Greed in Canterbury Tales

Ben Houghton

The Pardoners Tale Essay

2/25/13

1st Period

Have you ever desired success so much that you would stop at nothing to achieve it? Many times with a strong will to succeed, the desire for gain presents a valuable learning curve and increase in ones maturity level. Along with the desire for success, comes greed. Greed is not necessarily a bad thing. Of course there are instances in which greed or selfishness cause distractions or struggles; however, these instances provide a contribution to the overall success. Therefore, the desire for gain is not ultimately destructive.

In the 1987 movie Wall Street, A fictional character named Gordon Gekko explains how greed has shaped mankind. In his own words

“The point is ladies and gentlemen that Greed, for lack of a better word, is good. Greed is right, greed works. Greed clarifies, cuts through and captures the essence of the evolutionary spirit. Greed in all of its forms. Greed for life, money, love, knowledge, has marked the upward surge of mankind, and greed - you mark my words - will not only save Teldar Paper, but that other malfunctioning corporation called the U.S.A.” (Wall Street).

Even though this is a fictional movie, this description of greed holds true. One must illustrate greed in all areas of life to ultimately achieve success. The desire for gain in association with a moderate amount of greed is the ultimate key to success.

In the prologue of “The Pardoners Tale” it is clear that greed is present. The Pardoner reveals that his only desire is to obtain money. He also states that “I preach nothing except for gain” ("Pardoner's Tale", Line 105). This quote provides the reader with evidence that the Pardoner is a selfish person. This avarice also allows the reader to fully understand the corruption within the tale. However, this quote also gives insight to a different perspective. Yes, the Pardoner is without a doubt, very selfish, but there is nothing erroneous about a strong desire for...