Final answer:
Chaucer admires the Oxford Cleric, as indicated by the respectful portrayal of his scholarly dedication and modest lifestyle in 'The Canterbury Tales.' The correct choice of option is Admires.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best word to complete the statement 'Chaucer _____ the Oxford Cleric' is admires. In 'The Canterbury Tales,' Geoffrey Chaucer presents a series of character sketches. The Oxford Cleric is portrayed as a scholar who prefers books over material wealth. Chaucer's tone and choice of details indicate that he respects the Cleric's dedication to learning and the life of a scholar, which is evident in the portrayal of the Cleric's modest lifestyle and his passion for study.