Geoffrey Chaucer is considered and acclaimed by many critics as the father of English literature.  His most vital contribution was the development of the English language.  His literary masterpiece, however, was “The Canterbury Tales.”  In these tales, Chaucer writes about pilgrims who are on a journey to Canterbury.  Each pilgrim has a tale which they tell on this journey.  Chaucer expresses themes and messages through the characterization of each pilgrim.  Through the Parson, one of the pilgrims, Chaucer is able to portray the life of a true Christian through the general prologue, prologue to the Parson’s tale, and the Parson’s tale itself.

    In the general prologue, Chaucer introduces the reader to the Parson.  He is a “holy-minded man of good renown” (475).  The reader soon gets to know him as a devout, educated, altruistic, caring, gentle, humble, giving, and brotherly man through the general descriptions of who the Parson is and what he does.  The parson is “benign” and “diligent” (481) as well as being “holy and virtuous” (511).  Chaucer portrays this pious Christian through his reverent and venerable tone.  The readers envision the Parson as a monk of simple appearance who serves the poor in a monastery through Chaucer’s illustrative imagery.  He is not seen as a high ranking, political clergy member.  The Parson is a “true example” (501) of a genuine Christian living a Christ-like life.  He, being “learned” (478), knew and taught the gospel.  He was not hypocritical nor did “scrupulosity” (522) poison his character.  Chaucer himself greatly admires the Parson saying, “I [Chaucer] think there never was a better priest” (520).

    Chaucer continues to praise and respect the Parson in the prologue to the Parson’s tale.  He writes on how the Parson declines not to tell a story, but rather to use the opportunity to preach to the other pilgrims.  The Parson shows characteristics of living a Christian life through his efforts to spread the word.  He chooses to enlighten the pilgrims of a true spiritual purpose rather than to entertain them with lavish stories.  In addition, Chaucer shows how the Parson is clear-minded in the prologue.  The Parson is continuously focused on spreading the gospel and is not distracted but material things.  He chooses a life of servant hood and virtue over wealth, fame, and glory

    In the Parson’s tale itself, Chaucer is able to present the Parson’s understanding of the earthly life.  Through the teaching of the seven deadly sins, the readers realize the impact of sin and its potential to poison spiritual life.  The Parson show how wise and knowledgeable he is through his ethical teachings of the sins.  He first warns them of the sin.  Then, he warns of the consequences of the sins.  Finally, he gives them reason why not to sin.  The Parson’s character is shown through his powerful message he delivers.  It is of great importance, meaning life versus death.  Chaucer’s tone in the tale conveys a admirable reverence for true Christian living of the Parson.

    Consistent throughout the general prologue, prologue to the Parson’s tale, and the Parson’s tale itself, Chaucer speaks in a celebrated, sanctimonious tone towards the Parson.  The Parson is truly a praiseworthy Christian and Chaucer continuously extols him.  The Parson seems to be without flaw, hypocrisy, or unscrupulousness.  Truly, the Parson represents the most virtuous and holy pilgrim in “The Canterbury Tales” making him the most significant in life.