The Shipman’s Tale

1. The Shipman’s Tale By Jake Lehman

2. Characters • The Merchant- rich and foolish • The Merchant’s Wife- very beautiful • Sir John- a monk; a valued friend

3. Plot • The Merchant was preparing to leave for Bruges • Before leaving, the Merchant invited John over • The Merchant and John then spent 2 days drinking

4. Upon the Day of his Departure • The Merchant got up early to go count his money • John then went to pray in the garden • The Wife told John all of her problems: • Late night sex • Not in love with the Merchant • In debt 100 francs • John kissed the Merchant’s Wife

5. The Monk’s Help • John asked the Merchant to lend him 100 Francs • After, the Merchant left, John gave the wife the money in exchange for sex

6. The Merchant’s Return • John told the Merchant that he had given the 100 francs he owed to the Merchant’s Wife • The Merchant asked her for the money later that night • The Wife wouldn’t give up the money, but instead asked the Merchant to settle for sex