Human nature

Definition

Human nature refers to the inherent characteristics, feelings, and behaviors that define what it means to be human. In literature, it often explores themes such as morality, desire, and the complexities of human relationships. This concept is crucial for understanding character motivations and narrative conflicts, especially in works like The Canterbury Tales, where various human traits are depicted through diverse characters and their stories.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Canterbury Tales presents a variety of characters that embody different aspects of human nature, from greed and lust to piety and humility.
2. Chaucer uses humor and irony to highlight the flaws and virtues of human nature, making his characters relatable and complex.
3. The tales are structured as a storytelling contest, which reflects the competitive nature of humans and their desire for social status.
4. The use of direct character speech allows readers to grasp personal motivations, providing a deeper understanding of their human nature.
5. Themes of sin and redemption are prevalent, emphasizing the struggle between base instincts and moral choices that defines human experience.

Review Questions

• How does Chaucer's portrayal of different characters in The Canterbury Tales reflect the complexities of human nature?
  • Chaucer's portrayal of diverse characters in The Canterbury Tales showcases various facets of human nature by highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. Each character represents different traits, such as ambition, greed, or virtue, allowing readers to see how these characteristics influence their actions and interactions. This exploration reveals that human nature is not one-dimensional; instead, it is a mix of contrasting qualities that shape individual narratives and societal dynamics.
• Discuss how the narrative structure of The Canterbury Tales enhances the exploration of human nature among the characters.
  • The narrative structure of The Canterbury Tales, with its framework of a storytelling contest, enhances the exploration of human nature by placing characters in direct competition. This setup allows for the display of personal motivations and desires as each character tells their tale. The diversity of stories also invites comparison and contrast between different human experiences and moral choices, providing a richer understanding of how human nature can lead to various outcomes based on individual perspectives.
• Evaluate how Chaucer's use of satire in The Canterbury Tales serves to critique aspects of human nature and society.
  • Chaucer employs satire throughout The Canterbury Tales to critique various aspects of human nature and societal norms. By exaggerating flaws such as greed, hypocrisy, and lust in his characters, he exposes the darker sides of humanity while also inviting reflection on moral values. This critique not only entertains but also encourages readers to question their own behaviors and societal expectations, ultimately suggesting that understanding human nature requires acknowledging both its virtues and vices.

Related terms

Allegory:

A literary device where characters or events symbolize deeper moral or political meanings, often reflecting human nature's complexities.

Characterization: The process by which an author reveals the personality and traits of characters, providing insights into their human nature.

Moral Dilemma: A situation in which a character faces conflicting moral principles, showcasing the struggles inherent in human nature.