Final Answer:
Chaucer criticizes the medieval church for its moral corruption, hypocrisy, and exploitation of power. He highlights the clergy's deviation from spiritual duties and their pursuit of worldly gains, exposing the moral decay within the church.
Step-by-step explanation:
Chaucer's critique of the medieval church centers on its moral degradation, marked by the clergy's abandonment of their spiritual responsibilities. In "The Canterbury Tales," he vividly portrays characters like the Pardoner and the Summoner, who epitomize the moral corruption within the church. The Pardoner, for instance, shamelessly peddles fake relics and indulgences, revealing a stark deviation from the church's ethical principles. This moral decay, according to Chaucer, stems from the clergy's lust for wealth and power, overshadowing their commitment to spiritual guidance.
Moreover, Chaucer unveils the church's hypocrisy by exposing the stark contrast between its professed ideals and the actions of its representatives. The Summoner, a church official, is depicted as corrupt and morally bankrupt, engaging in immoral practices despite his role as a religious figure. Chaucer's portrayal underscores the dissonance between the church's teachings and the behavior of its own members, emphasizing the systemic issues within the institution.
Furthermore, Chaucer addresses the exploitation of power within the church hierarchy. The Monk and the Friar, both high-ranking church officials, exemplify the misuse of authority for personal gain. By critiquing these characters, Chaucer not only condemns the individuals but also comments on the broader systemic issues within the medieval church. In essence, Chaucer's portrayal serves as a social commentary on the moral, ethical, and institutional challenges that plagued the medieval church during his time.