Question

Study the following dictionary entry.

vi•cious ('vi-shus) adjective 1. having the nature or quality of vice, immoral 2. marked by corruption or fault 3. characterized by dangerous or violent habits 4. malicious, spiteful
Based on its context, which definition corresponds with Chaucer's usage of vicious in line 55 of "The Pardoner's Prologue"?
For though I am a wholly vicious man Don't think I can't tell moral tales. I can!
Select one:
a. definition 1
b. definition 2
c. definition 3
d. definition 4

Answer 1

In Chaucer's 'The Pardoner's Prologue,' line 55 uses the definition of 'vicious' as 'having the nature or quality of vice, immoral.'

Step-by-step explanation:

In Chaucer's usage of the word 'vicious' in line 55 of 'The Pardoner's Prologue,' it corresponds with definition 1: having the nature or quality of vice, immoral. The line suggests that the speaker is admitting to being a morally corrupt person, but still capable of telling moral tales. Thus, the usage of 'vicious' here aligns with the meaning of 'immoral.'