Reading boundaryStart: There was also a Nun, a PRIORESS,Stop after: was call’d Huberd.
Summary
Madame Eglentine, the Prioress, sings the service, speaks Stratford French, practices elaborate table manners, and imitates courtly dignity. Her pity extends intensely to trapped mice and pampered little dogs. Her neat dress, coral beads, and gold brooch bearing “Love conquers all” complete the portrait; another nun and three priests accompany her.
The Monk dismisses old monastic rules and prefers horses, hunting, fine fur, jewelry, and rich food. The Friar Huberd is a licensed limiter who offers easy penance where gifts are forthcoming, cultivates prosperous people rather than lepers and beggars, extracts even a widow’s farthing, and excels at songs, tavern society, settlement days, stylish dress, and persuasive performance.
Who’s who
Madame Eglentine — A Prioress attentive to courtly manners, appearance, pets, and displays of pity.
The Monk — A prosperous outrider and hunter who rejects strict cloistered ideals.
Huberd — A sociable friar and licensed confessor skilled at collecting money.