Final Answer:
The knight tells the old woman that the choice is hers; she can decide whether to be young and unfaithful or old and faithful.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Chaucer's "Wife of Bath's Tale," when the old woman helps the knight solve the queen's riddle, she demands that he marry her in return. She presents him with a choice: she can either be old and faithful or young and potentially unfaithful, and she leaves the decision to the knight. The knight, recognizing the value of her loyalty, grants her agency in the decision, stating that the choice is hers to make.
This moment in the tale reflects themes of agency, choice, and the nature of fidelity. The knight's response illustrates his understanding of the importance of true loyalty and the superficiality of appearances. By allowing the old woman to choose her own fate, Chaucer highlights the complexities of love and marriage, challenging traditional notions of beauty and emphasizing the significance of inner qualities over outward appearances.
In conclusion, the knight's response to the old woman's proposition in "Wife of Bath's Tale" showcases the thematic depth in Chaucer's narrative. The choice offered to the old woman reveals the complexities of love and loyalty, emphasizing the importance of inner qualities in relationships. The tale serves as a commentary on societal expectations and perceptions of beauty, urging readers to look beyond external appearances to understand the true nature of love and commitment.