The Canterbury Tales · Chapter
The Miller's Tale explained
A bawdy and comedic tale of a foolish old carpenter, his young wife Alison, and two clerks—Nicholas and Absolon—who compete for her affections, leading to slapstick humiliation and a broken arm.
What happens
A bawdy and comedic tale of a foolish old carpenter, his young wife Alison, and two clerks—Nicholas and Absolon—who compete for her affections, leading to slapstick humiliation and a broken arm.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This passage marks the story's dramatic climax because it shifts the focus from the external, ritualistic acts…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Social Class and Estate
The tale contrasts the status of a wealthy carpenter, a poor clerk, and a parish clerk, highlighting class tensions.
- Gender and Power
Alison uses her sexuality to manipulate men, yet ultimately is objectified and controlled by the male characters' schemes.
Characters to notice
- The Miller
Tells this ribald tale, interrupting the Knight's story.
- Nicholas
A clever clerk who seduces Alison and devises a trick to sleep with her.
- Alison
The young and lively wife of John the carpenter, pursued by both Nicholas and Absolon.
- Absolon
A vain parish clerk who tries to woo Alison and is humiliated.
- John
The jealous old carpenter who is tricked into believing Noah's flood is coming.
Key passages
“The Miller's Tale”
The Miller tells a story about a carpenter, his wife, and two clerks.
Opening of the tale.
