The Canterbury Tales · Character
The Man of Law
A serjeant of the law who has bought up every inch of land in fee simple, and tells a tale of a wronged woman's constancy.
supporting
First appearance: The Prologue
As a supporting figure in The Canterbury Tales, The Man of Law is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.
Tells the tale of Constance, emphasizing themes of justice and providence.
The Man of Law is one of the busiest buyers of land in England, yet he seems busier than he is, and no one can find a flaw in his legal papers. He tells the tale of Constance, a Christian princess cast adrift and slandered, whose faith never wavers. His tale of patience and providence fits a man whose whole life is spent weighing evidence and pronouncing judgment.
Free preview opens at this moment — character cards, Character Web, and themes sit beside the text as you read.
Character Web
7 connectionsA slice of how The Man of Law sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.
Relationship types
- Other
Character groups
- Diverse pilgrims and tale characters
- Protagonist
- Lower-class and bawdy characters
- Comic and authorial figures
+2 more in the full Character Web
Open in readerNarrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- 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 readingIn the story
The Man of Law appears across 3 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.
Chapter companion notes
Spoil-light check-ins for The Man of Law unlock in the free preview.
See The Man of Law in The Prologue