How does Chaucers" use of language create an impression of a.
Chaucer uses language in a variety of ways to characterise Absolon and Alison. A writing technique frequently implemented by Chaucer is the use of similes, such as "She was ful more blisful on to see / Than is the newe pere-jonette tree". The simile is doubly appropriate because the pear-tree was not only beautiful, but ripened very early, therefore has two points of likeness with the "Fair", newly-wedded, eighteen year old Alison. Another naturalistic simile used to describe Alison is.
"as any wezele hir body gent and smal". This expresses her attractive, slender body shape, but, by likening her to the stereotypically cunning weasel, Chaucer also creates an impression of slyness and untrustworthiness. Chaucers" frequent use of naturalistic similes to describe Alison, particularly "But of hir song, it was as loud and yerne / As any swalwe sitting on a berne" implies that she is completely wild, natural and untamed. She is portrayed as someone who is likely to act on instinct, which prepares us for her future unfaithfulness. .
An animalistic simile is also used in the description of Absolon, who's eyes were as "greye as goos". As well as describing his eye colour, Chaucer portrays Absolons" foolishness by connecting him with geese. .
Chaucer uses not only similes drawn from nature, but sensory ones. Visual similes are used to describe Absolons" hair. The shape of his hair, "Strouted as a fanne large and brode" is conspicuous, and combined with the fact that his hair was curly, and "as the gold it shoon", betrays his liking for attracting attention. It also creates a ridiculous mental image, adding humour to the description, and expressing the vain foolishness that characterises him. A tangible, tactile simile is used to describe Alison, who is "softer than the wolle is of a wether." This is ironical as this wool is quite course, implying that Alison is not pure at all.