Question

In the "Miller's Tale," the poor clerk who boards with the old carpenter and his beautiful young wife is known as "handy Nicholas" (line 91). The adjective "handy" is crucial in establishing Nicholas's appearance and character. What does the adjective "handy" mean?

Answer 1

The word 'handsome' has a similar origin, evolving from meanings of convenience and suitability to its modern sense of physical attractiveness. Such character descriptions through attributes related to hands are a common literary device.

Step-by-step explanation:

The adjective 'handy' in the context of 'The Miller's Tale' from Geoffrey Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales' is important in establishing the character of Nicholas.

In this instance, 'handy' refers to being clever or adroit, particularly in using the hands, which is indicative of Nicholas's capabilities and craftiness. Over time, the meaning of words related to 'hand' like 'handsome' have evolved.

'Handsome' originally meant 'easy to handle, ready at hand,' which then became 'handy, convenient, suitable' before acquiring its modern sense of being physically attractive.

Characters being described by their capabilities or nature is not uncommon in literature.

For example, nicknames in the office scenario of Bartleby reflect personal traits, and the widow in the retelling is looking for a son-in-law with rough hands to signify his hardworking nature, indicative of skillfulness, particularly in building canoes.

This reinforces the idea that the physical aspect of hands or handiwork is often used metaphorically to convey character depth.