The Wife of Bath

The Wife of Bath speaks out against men controlling women and she speaks out about what it is like to live under a controlling husband who thinks he can do whatever he wants with her whenever he wants. She makes it very clear that no man can rule her or control her and that any man who comes in to her life is under her command. This may be interpreted in others pieces from the woman’s actions in the story, but never has it just been openly said by a female character. This tale shows the women's thirst for power and control. They want to make decisions as well and have a say. They do not want to be controlled and told what to do anymore. Just by giving them the chance to make decisions and take charge for some things, they will be happy and in return, in this instance, reward the men as this can be seen as respect for women. The writing begins with a somewhat long prologue from the wife’s point of view. She describes herself as a very manipulative and sexual. She uses her sexuality to get what she desires, and has no problem telling about it. This is somewhat related to what we have read thus far in this course in that the women are paired to sex and desire. Overall I felt this reading was a strong narrative about the woman and their desires for a bigger power. Chaucer creates a character who is very confident in her sexuality and what she can obtain from it. I believe Chaucer is attempting to make a point that women need more control in a relationship.