Introduction to Authority and Rebellion
When we delve into medieval literature, one of the most fascinating themes that emerges is the dynamic between authority and rebellion. Two striking examples of this theme can be found in Geoffrey Chaucer’s “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale” from *The Canterbury Tales* and the anonymous “Wakefield Second Shepherd’s Play.” While these works stem from different genres—one being a fabliau and the other a mystery play—they both provide rich insights into how authority is perceived and challenged in their respective societies.
Authority in The Nun’s Priest’s Tale
In “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale,” authority comes primarily from two sources: societal hierarchy and animal instinct. The main characters, Chanticleer (the rooster) and Pertelote (the hen), live under a strict pecking order in their barnyard. Here, Chanticleer represents not only the dominant male figure but also a voice of authority within his domain. He is revered for his crowing, which signifies not just the time to rise but serves as an emblem of his power over the hens.
However, Chaucer cleverly complicates this notion of authority through Chanticleer’s character. Despite being an authoritative figure, he exhibits moments of vulnerability, especially when he succumbs to fear after having a prophetic dream about a fox threatening him. This moment highlights that even those who hold power are susceptible to doubt and anxiety—an aspect often overlooked when discussing authority figures. His relationship with Pertelote reveals another layer: she tries to dismiss his fears with rationality, suggesting that he should not let dreams dictate his reality. This interplay shows how even within hierarchical structures, rebellion against established norms or fears can emerge.
Rebellion through Folly
The tale takes a decisive turn when Chanticleer ultimately chooses to ignore Pertelote’s advice regarding his dream. Herein lies the essence of rebellion—not against an external force but rather against one’s own fears and insecurities. In making this choice, Chanticleer subverts traditional ideas about obedience; he acts on instinct instead of reasoned advice from Pertelote. This act becomes an assertion of individuality that transcends societal expectations.
The Wakefield Second Shepherd’s Play: A Different Perspective on Authority
Turning our gaze to “The Wakefield Second Shepherd’s Play,” we encounter authority in both religious and feudal contexts. The play presents a vivid portrayal of shepherds who are subject to the whims of their lord while simultaneously grappling with divine oversight—a complex duality that establishes tension throughout the narrative. In contrast to Chanticleer’s singular focus on personal fear, these shepherds face systemic oppression from various authorities around them.
The character Mak embodies rebellion against these authorities through deception; he steals one of the shepherds’ sheep under false pretenses. Mak’s cunning highlights how lower classes often resorted to trickery as a means of survival amidst oppressive systems—essentially rebelling against those who hold power over them by undermining their authority with wit rather than brute force.
The Theme of Collective Rebellion
A significant theme running through “The Wakefield Second Shepherd’s Play” is collective rebellion among common folk against oppressive systems symbolized by both social hierarchies and divine oversight. The shepherds band together not just as individuals but as representatives of marginalized voices seeking justice in an unfair world—a commentary reflective of medieval society itself where peasants were often at odds with feudal lords.
Comparative Analysis: Individual vs Collective Rebellion
This contrast between individualistic rebellion seen in “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale” versus collective action portrayed in “The Wakefield Second Shepherd’s Play” offers rich terrain for analysis. On one hand, we see how personal struggles manifest internally within individual characters like Chanticleer; on the other hand, characters like Mak showcase external struggles within larger community dynamics where shared experiences bind them together against tyrannical forces.
Moreover, both works also reflect upon themes such as identity crises brought forth by their respective situations—Chanticleer grappling with internal fears while Mak wrestles with societal expectations imposed upon him as part of a class system designed to keep him subservient.
The Resolution: Lessons Learned?
Ultimately, both tales conclude with resolutions that suggest wisdom gained through experience—whether it be Chanticleer’s realization about trusting oneself despite external doubts or the shepherds’ acknowledgment that they must rely on each other if they wish to reclaim agency over their lives amidst overwhelming odds.
Conclusion: Lasting Implications
The enduring appeal found within Chaucer’s works alongside those like “The Wakefield Second Shepherd’s Play” lies largely rooted in these timeless explorations surrounding authority juxtaposed by rebellious impulses inherent among individuals facing marginalization across generations—a testament showcasing human resilience echoed throughout literary history!
References
- Chaucer, Geoffrey. *The Canterbury Tales*. Edited by V.A.Kolve & Glending Olson; W.W.Norton & Company Inc., 2005.
- The Wakefield Mystery Plays: *The Second Shepherds’ Play*. Edited by Andrew Joron; Oxford University Press, 2010.
- Pearson C., Baker R., & McCarthy T., eds., *Medieval Drama*. Cambridge University Press 1994.
- Cunningham S., *Chaucer: A Very Short Introduction*. Oxford University Press 2019.
