What makes them typical? (MEG 101 CHAUCER)

What makes them typical? (The individual elements may include physiognomy, dress, eccentricity but dress and physiognomy are also representative of class or social group. Actually there is no opposition. Perhaps individuality ultimately comes from Chaucer's vividness of imagination.)

While each character in Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales" is individualized, there are also certain elements that make them typical of their respective social groups or classes. These include:

Physiognomy: 

The physical features and appearance of the characters are often representative of their social class or occupation. For example, the Miller is described as having a "wide nostril" and a "mouth like a furnace," which suggests a rough and uncultured nature. On the other hand, the Prioress is described as having a "forehead fair of spread" and a "fine nose," which suggests a more refined and cultured nature.

Dress: 

Similarly, the clothing and accessories worn by the characters are often indicative of their social status or occupation. For example, the Monk is described as wearing a "furry cope" and a "grisly hood," which suggests his wealth and status as a member of the clergy.

Eccentricity: 

Many of the characters in "The Canterbury Tales" are also portrayed as having unique quirks or eccentricities, which further individualizes them while also making them typical of their social groups. For example, the Physician is described as being a lover of gold and wearing clothing made of expensive materials, which is typical of his profession as a wealthy and educated doctor.

Vividness of Imagination: 

Ultimately, what makes the characters in "The Canterbury Tales" so typical and individual is Chaucer's vividness of imagination. He is able to create fully-formed and memorable characters through his use of descriptive language, dialogue, and characterization. The characters are often larger than life, but also grounded in the realities of their time and place.

Overall, while each character in "The Canterbury Tales" is unique and individualized, they are also representative of their social class or group. This helps to give the reader a sense of the social and cultural conditions of medieval England, while also making the characters memorable and entertaining to read about.