Characterization of the Squire

Characterization of the Squire The narrator of The Canterbury Tales, Geoffrey Chaucer, gives a very brief, visual description of the Squire. He is an active warrior serving under his father, the Knight. His elaborate attire and strong appearance make him very attractive. He has expertise in quite a few talents, while also being a brave and effective young knight. He is sensual, having a strong desire for women. The Squire is characterized as an attractive, talented, and very sexual young bachelor. His first attribute is his appearance. Chaucer describes him as very strong and agile. He is approximately twenty years old, of moderate height, and great strength. It is also noted that his hair is curly, “as they were laid in presse” (“The General Prologue” line 81). His dress is short with large sleeves and embroidered with red and white flowers. The Squire has a fresh and colorful appearance. The narrator describes his physical appearance in a way that resembles a model or statue. The Squire is also a man of many talents. Chaucer mentions that he is musically talented and is able to write verse and song. Other skills include a form of dance, drawing, and jousting. It is noted “And he hadde been som time in chivachye…And born him wel as of so litel space”, meaning he has much experience on cavalry expeditions considering he has not been in service for very long (“The General Prologue” lines 85 and 87). And even though he is perceived as being perfect in every aspect, he is also unpretentious and helpful. It is mentioned that it is his duty to carve his lord’s meat at the table (“The General Prologue” line 100). Another noteworthy characteristic of the Squire is his sexual boldness. “So hote he loved that by nightertale he slepte namore than dooth a nightingale.” (“The General Prologue” lines 97 and 98). The Squire loves so passionately that he has many sleepless nights. Chaucer also indicates that he is singing, or whistling, throughout the days. Meadows, fresh flowers, and the Squire’s songs are used as metaphors to represent his character’s sexual image (“Character Analysis”). It is his priority to be loved by his lady, “in hope to stonden in his lady grace” (“The General Prologue” line 88). The young knight’s mind seems to be focused on song writing and sexuality, rather than battle and war (“Character Analysis”). Although the narrator does not provide much detail on the Squire’s character, it is clear that he is a very charming, skillful, young bachelor. Though he is a candidate for a knight, it is believed that his mindset is not appropriate for the job. The Squire seems to be infatuated with women in a way that would prevent him from being a successful knight. Chaucer gives the impression that he also enjoys his many talents, aside from the battlefield. Even though he may have several warrior-like attributes, his priorities prove he has other fixations.