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Describe the Fox after “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale.” 

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The Nun's Priest's Tale is a notable literary work by Geoffrey Chaucer. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of The Nun's Priest's Tale.

Answer

Describe the fox after “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale.” 

 

“The Nun’s Priest’s Tale” is a phenomenal beast fable by Geoffrey Chaucer (1340-1400). The fox in the Nun’s Priest’s Tale is a cunning and sly animal who is the main antagonist of the story. His name is Sir Russell. Here is a short discussion of the fox’s character and actions in the tale,

 

The Appearance of the Fox: The fox is described as a “red rede” or a “red fox,” with a sleek coat and sharp features. He is also said to be “sly” and “subtle” in appearance, which reflects his cunning nature. Chaunticleer says about the fox,

 

I saw there a strange beast

Was like a dog, and he’d have made a feast

Upon my body, and have had me dead.

 

Deception of the fox: The fox is a master of deception and trickery. He first flatters Chaunticleer to lure him down from his perch. Then he tricks Chaunticleer into closing his eyes and singing. This allows the fox to grab him in his jaws.

 

And Russel Fox, he started up at once,

And by the gorget grabbed our Chanticleer,

 

Persuasive Speech: The fox is eloquent and persuasive in his speech, using a combination of flattery, wit, and logic to convince Chaunticleer to come down from his perch. He also speaks in rhyme, which adds to his cleverness and charm.

 

The intelligence of the fox: The fox is highly intelligent and quick-witted. He is able to entrap Chaunticleer and the other animals on the farm by using his cunning and wit to his advantage. This line describes the fox as being very sly and deceitful,

 

This sly reynard, full of treachery

 

Greed: The fox’s ultimate goal is to eat Chaunticleer, which reveals his greed and hunger for power. He is willing to use any means necessary to achieve his goal, even if it means deceiving and tricking others.

 

However, the fox in ‘The Nun’s Priest’s Tale’ is a complex and multifaceted character who embodies the qualities of cunning, intelligence, and greed. His actions and behavior drive the plot forward.