What attitude toward death evident in the the pardoners tale might be partly explained by the frequent outbreaks of plague in Chaucer's day?

Answer 1

The attitude toward death in "The Pardoner's Tale" can be explained by the frequent outbreaks of plague in Chaucer's day as people were constantly confronted with the reality of mortality. This may have influenced the tale's themes of greed, betrayal, and the consequences of sin, highlighting the fragility and unpredictability of life in the face of death. The fear of sudden death due to the plague could have also contributed to the tale's focus on moral themes and the pursuit of spiritual salvation.