Final answer:
In Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales, the Pardoner tells the truth in two instances, highlighting the themes of self-awareness and greed. The lesson for readers is to reflect on their own moral compass and consider the dangers of hypocrisy and greed.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales, the Pardoner is indeed portrayed as a deceitful and dishonest character. However, there are two instances in the Prologue where the Pardoner tells the truth. First, the Pardoner openly admits to his greed and love of money, revealing his true motivations for his actions. Second, he confesses to using false relics to deceive people and make money. These instances of truthfulness show the Pardoner's self-awareness and willingness to admit his faults.
The lesson for readers here is that even though the Pardoner is a dishonest person, his honesty in these specific instances highlights the theme of self-awareness and the consequences of greed. Chaucer wants readers to reflect on their own moral compass and consider the dangers of hypocrisy and greed.