Write a note on the mock-heroic aspect of the tale (10 sentences) (MEG 101 CHAUCER)

The mock-heroic is one of the defining aspects of the Nun's Priest's Tale (NPT), where Chaucer parodies the conventions of the epic genre. This technique involves elevating trivial or mundane events to the status of heroic or epic, and is often characterized by the use of grandiose language, exaggerated descriptions, and epic similes.

The NPT presents itself as a mock-heroic tale, with Chauntecleer and Pertelote acting as the hero and heroine respectively. However, the subject matter is far from heroic, as it is a story about a rooster and his hens. The use of epic conventions such as grand descriptions of characters, battles and imagery of heroic proportions provide a humorous contrast to the relatively un-heroic events that take place.

The use of epic similes is a particularly effective way of achieving this mock-heroic effect. The NPT has several examples of epic similes, such as when the narrator describes Chauntecleer's crowing as being "like the trumpet of victory." This simile is humorous, as it is exaggerated in its comparison of a rooster's crow to a trumpet heralding victory on the battlefield.

The use of high-flown language is also a defining feature of the mock-heroic. Chaucer employs the language of epic poetry to describe the events of the NPT, giving the story an air of grandeur that is at odds with the subject matter. For example, when Chauntecleer falls into the fox's trap, the narrator describes the scene in language that is reminiscent of epic battles, with the fox being compared to a "giant."

Another aspect of the mock-heroic in the NPT is the use of parody, particularly in the portrayal of the characters. Chauntecleer, for example, is depicted as a brave and noble hero, but he is also vain and foolish. Similarly, Pertelote is portrayed as the epitome of femininity and grace, but she is also shown to be argumentative and dismissive of her husband's fears.

The effect of the mock-heroic is to draw attention to the absurdity of the events that take place in the NPT, and to highlight the humor that can be found in the most unlikely of places. The use of epic conventions in the tale serves to emphasize the idea that even the most mundane of events can be elevated to the status of epic or heroic through the use of language and imagery.

In conclusion, the NPT is a masterful example of Chaucer's skill in creating a mock-heroic tale. Through the use of epic conventions, grandiose language, and exaggerated descriptions, Chaucer is able to parody the conventions of the epic genre, and to draw attention to the humor that can be found in everyday life.