The Knight – one of the important and interesting characters of "The Canterbury Tales" by Chaucer Essay

"The Canterbury Tales," is a contrast of realistic qualities that Chaucer entitles to every single character, is an illustration of the society in which Geoffrey Chaucer lived. It portrays the culture and class system of the medieval ages. Within the Canterbury tales one of the most interesting characters introduced is the Knight. Chaucer refers to the Knight as the most distinguished man and a romantic, heroic figure, with the highest placed member on society. As the story evolves the knight trades become evident throughout his behaviors.
One of Geoffrey's main characters is the Knight. The knight displays many traits, which makes him seem too good to be true, and a gentleman that usually doesn't exists in reality. The knight holds four main admirable and remarkable traits, which help the reader imply the doubt of his realism. The reader is prepared to learn his noble accomplishments and importance. From the characters impressive introduction, it is clear that this man is the most valued and honorable traveler among the group. This perfect gentleman holds ideals that are often not displayed by normal people. First, he believes in the ideals of chivalry, and always stays true to its principles. He also believe that people should be honest, truthful and faithful in their life, which many people doesn't follow these ideals anymore. The knight thinks one should only do what is right, and what will gain him honor and reputation. This character also believes in freedom and generosity towards all, by sharing this ideal repeatedly throughout the novel. And lastly, the knight also strongly feels that any decent person should display courtesy and elegance at all times. Another aspect of this character's life, which makes him seem too prestigious to be truthful, is his impressive military career. He fought in the holy war, known as the "Crusades" and mortal battles. The knight obviously holds a very respectable reputation, which guaranties him honor and respect. The knight is the perfect gentleman, demonstrating kindness and understanding to everyone in contact with him. The knight was extremely well mannered, always being on his best behavior, adding honor and integrity to his courageous and gentle spirit. The qualities of the knight resembles those of very few people now a days, giving a quality of exaggeration to the perfectness found in the knight. He represents the ideal man seen by Chaucer.
Furthermore, The Canterbury Tales offers the reader an insight into our past, providing vivid flashbacks into the 14th century's, and into the personalities, lives, and ethics of the members of that society. As the Knight begins, we are instantly reminded of the decency of the Knight, his overwhelming human dignity and moral worldview, which Chaucer described in the general prologue. The Knight is a role model of a man of the first estate noble and humble, courageous and gentle, a warrior and a saint. As he fits in his high society class, he speaks with elegance and seriousness about the important attitudes and values that any human should cherish.