Final answer:
Chaucer utilized character physical appearances to emphasize their moral qualities (option d), which is part of characterization to create complex and relatable characters.
Step-by-step explanation:
Chaucer included characters' physical appearance in his works primarily to emphasize their moral qualities. The description of a character's appearance can reflect their inner virtues or vices, helping readers to make judgments about their character. For instance, a character with a noble and handsome appearance may be portrayed as virtuous, while an unsightly character could represent corrupt or negative traits. In literature, this technique is part of characterization, the strategy that authors use to present and develop characters through descriptive techniques.
Through detailed descriptions, authors create complex and relatable characters. By providing these details, Chaucer and other authors enable readers to visualize the characters, understand their personalities and backgrounds, and empathize with their experiences. Descriptions of physical appearance, actions, and dialogue all contribute to a rounded portrayal that prompts readers to respond emotionally and intellectually to the characters.
It's pertinent to note that all characterization tools, including physical descriptions, aim to make characters appear lifelike and engaging, compelling the reader to care about their fates. In many cases, authors may use descriptions to signify deeper themes or to make social comments, as Chaucer often does by poking fun at certain characters or by using their appearances to highlight hypocrisy or other moral failings.