A focused A Level English Literature resource exploring the Wife of Bath’s use of biblical allusion in lines 1–76 of the Prologue.

Students examine how she draws upon Scripture to defend marriage and remarriage, question restrictions placed upon female sexuality and challenge established interpretations of religious authority. The resource also supports analysis of her argumentative methods, including rhetorical questioning, direct address, repetition and selective interpretation.

Middle English extracts are presented alongside line-by-line modern English translations to support close reading and confident engagement with Chaucer’s language. Students then develop these ideas through an examination-style comparison task focused on authority and relevant contextual factors.

The resource includes a teaching PowerPoint, student materials, translated extracts and teacher guidance, and is suitable for Pearson Edexcel A Level English Literature study of The Wife of Bath’s Prologue and Tale.

Chaucer: The Wife of Bath’s Prologue + Tale Related Resources:

* CHAUCER: THE WIFE OF BATH PROLOGUE + TALE | Gentillesse | Pairing Guide + Extended Level 5 Response

* CHAUCER: THE WIFE OF BATH PROLOGUE + TALE | Gentillesse | Extended Level 5 Response

* CHAUCER: THE WIFE OF BATH’S PROLOGUE + TALE | Complete Reading and Understanding

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