Through the description of such aspects of the character, such as appearance, effects on others, actions, voice, and behavior, the author can provide a complete picture for the reader. The author does not mention how the Skipper conducts a dialogue with others. However, based on the prologue and description of the man, it can be understood that he is a simple representative of the working class. Therefore, his speech is not distinguished by great expressiveness and literacy; colloquialism may be present.
The prologue does not directly present the thoughts of the Skipper but indicates that “by water he sent them home to every land/ he drowned his/ But of his craft to reckon well his tides, prisoners* His streames and his strandes him” (Chaucer, 2020, p. 12). He followed his own beliefs and values in everything he did and undertook. The Skipper had quite a positive effect on other people. This can be justified by the fact that in the prologue it is noted that he “certainly was a good fellaw” and “of nice conscience took he no keep” (Chaucer, 2020, p. 12). Therefore, it can be said that he maintained good relations with those he encountered in life and made a positive impression on theme.
Chaucer shows the Skipper as strong enough, but at the same time a fair person, saying that “If that he fought and had the higher hand” and “Hardy he was, and wise, I undertake/ With many a tempest had his beard been shake” (Chaucer, 2020, p. 12). These lines show that he went through a lot but, at the same time, remained restrained and faithful to the path he built. At the first presentation of the Skipper, the author points to his attire. Chaucer notes, “hack all in a gown of falding* to the knee. *coarse cloth/A dagger hanging by a lace had he/About his neck under his arm adown” (Chaucer, 2020, p. 12). This description may indicate a person’s financial condition, indicating that he did not have much since he wore shabby and dirty clothes. Therefore, it can be assumed that Skipper is surrounded by people who are very similar to him and have the same status as him.
Reference
Chaucer, G. (2020). The Canterbury tales. Open Road Media.