And yet he had a thomb of gold parde

And yet he had a thomb of gold parde

In Geoffrey Chaucer's famous work, "The Canterbury Tales," the line "And yet he had a thomb of gold parde" is found in the description of the Pardoner, one of the pilgrims on the journey to Canterbury. This line is significant in understanding the character of the Pardoner and his role in the story.

The Pardoner is a complex character who is known for his deceitful practices and manipulation of others for personal gain. He is a corrupt church official who sells fake relics and indulgences to unsuspecting people, preying on their fears and superstitions. The line "And yet he had a thomb of gold parde" is a reference to the Pardoner's ability to deceive others with his smooth words and charming demeanor, despite his dishonest intentions.

The use of the word "thomb" in this context is particularly interesting, as it can be interpreted as a symbol of the Pardoner's ability to manipulate and control others. A "thomb of gold" suggests a sense of power and authority, which the Pardoner uses to his advantage in his fraudulent schemes. The word "parde" adds a touch of irony to the line, as it is a medieval exclamation used to express surprise or disbelief. In this case, it serves to highlight the contradiction between the Pardoner's outward appearance of piety and his true nature as a deceitful charlatan.

The Pardoner's possession of a "thomb of gold" also reflects the theme of greed and materialism that runs throughout "The Canterbury Tales." The Pardoner's desire for wealth and luxury drives him to exploit others for his own gain, leading to his downfall in the end. Chaucer uses the character of the Pardoner to critique the corruption and hypocrisy of the church during his time, as well as to explore the destructive effects of greed on individuals and society as a whole.

Overall, the line "And yet he had a thomb of gold parde" is a powerful and evocative description of the Pardoner's character in "The Canterbury Tales." It serves as a reminder of the dangers of deception and greed, as well as a commentary on the moral and ethical complexities of human nature.