The Wife of Bath is described as having a deaf ear.
While the Wife of Bath is a multifaceted character with a rich backstory, her deafness is a significant, yet often overlooked, aspect of her identity in Geoffrey Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales. This physical disability likely contributed to her strong personality and independent nature.
Further points to consider:
- The text specifically mentions her deafness, making it a definitive physical characteristic.
- The presence of deafness may be a metaphor for her selective hearing, representing her tendency to ignore societal expectations and marital norms.
- Despite her deafness, she is portrayed as a powerful and articulate woman who actively participates in societal discourse.
In conclusion, the Wife of Bath is specifically noted to have a deaf ear, a physical disability that likely influenced her character and interactions within the world of The Canterbury Tales.
