Customer Reviews:
 A good read for historical context, or just interest May 1, 2001
5 out of 10 found this review helpful
'The Merchant's Tale' is one of many of 'The Canterbury Tales'. Not only does it fit in well with the overall pilgrimage that Chaucer is relaying, but it is also stands well as a book alone. The story of Januarie and his hunt for the perfect wife is told in such an intricate and complex way, that it has a variety of interpretations. There are many arguments, for example relating to who is speaking in the marriage encomium at the beginning - is it Januarie, or the Merchant? The strong use of comic effects, especially satire, also make the book more accessable on a wider spectrum of levels. The interweaving levels of thought, coming from Januarie, the Merchant and Chaucer, leave the book very open to individual interpretation and a wide maze of enlightening discussions
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