Line By Line Analysis Essay

In the block quotation above, readers learn that the Wife of Bath describes lying as a form of art. A wise wife must be manipulative—must show their husband that they are powerful. The Wife of Bath’s goal is to give an advice to the women who are not wise—unable to manipulate their husband. Line 230 translates to the following: now listen to how I have conducted myself (Benson). Readers get the opportunity to learn that the Wife of Bath is a powerful manipulator who is attempting to teach other wives how to conduct themselves. Line 231 translates to the following: to the wise wives that are able to understand me (Benson). This line enables the readers to realize that the Wife of Bath is a woman who will refuse to repeat her advice—her audience consists of wives that are able to understand her effectively. Line 232 translates to the following: you should speak to your husband by accusing him wrongfully (Benson). This line allows wives who are not wise to learn how to make their
After reading this line, readers are able to conclude that the Wife of Bath believes that women are superior to men—they are neither bold nor wise. The Wife of Bath wants to spread her cult—she wants the other women to become powerful and superior to their husbands—just like she is. For instance, line 234 translates to the following: a woman should swear and lie to their husband—they have the power to do it (Benson). In line 235, the Wife of Bath makes it clear that her advice is not meant for the wise wives (Benson). Therefore, the readers are able to argue that the wise wives that listen to her advice—take a moment to reflect on their wise manipulation skills. In line 236, the readers learn that the Wife of Bath’s advice is also intended to seek the attention of the wise wives that have been improperly advised on how to make their husbands feel guilty—by using their effective manipulation skills