Canterbury Tales Essay the Squire

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The Squire Chaucer uses satire and irony when talking about the Squire in “The Canterbury Tales”. During Medieval times, a Squire was a servant to a Knight. Squires had already served seven years in the role of a page before moving to the role of a Squire at the age of fourteen years old. Viewed as young men, Squires had reached the age of puberty, which was their first step to manhood. As they grew older, Squires were taken care of by the Knights rather then the women. This was done so the Squires could learn first hand how to be a Knight. There were many lessons and skills a Squire had to learn and excel in. For example, The Code of Chivalry and The Rules of Heraldry were very important for Squires to learn because they were the basis of what they believed in. Horsemanship and the use of weapons were very important for the young men to learn since they would soon be on the battlefield. Squires had to develop leadership skills, athletic skills, and bravery. Every skill listed was required of a Knight. The duties and jobs that a Squire had were very broad, yet, he could relate to specific tasks. The Arming Squire would accompany the Knight on the battlefield while the Squire of the Table would help with the court and the castle. Some would attend just to the Knight’s horses and their stables and other tedious jobs such as waiting at the table, kitchen duties, and arranging the upkeep of clothing, running errands, and keeping an eye on the knights while they slept. Chaucer’s Squire was accompanying his father, the Knight, on this journey. Chaucer makes it very clear that the Squire was very good on horseback and other things that a Squire would do. He can joust very well. He also carves meat very well for his father at dinner. From the portrait, it seems to be that the Squire is a very attractive young man. He is built very well and is at average height.

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