Geoffrey Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales, written during the 14th century, explores stories told by multiple characters for the prize of a free dinner and an overnight stay in the Canterbury Inn. One character in particular, the Wife of Bath, tells a story that opposes the current status quo of the 14th century. While The Wife of Bath challenges the social norms of the 14th century, the idea of ​​a growth mindset can also be seen towards the end of the story through the discussion between the Knight and the Old Witch. The Wife of Bath uses the character's situations to oppose the social quos of the 14th century and uses the conversation between the Old Witch and the Knight to show the idea of ​​a growth mindset. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Before the story of The Wife of Bath begins, a number of anomalies can already be seen in her lifestyle. Immediately, the Wife of Bath states that: "There will be no wedding for me this year!". However, during the 14th century, women were usually expected to marry and pursue marriage at a young age. However, the Wife of Bath's decision not to remarry is unusual, as she was highly desired among those who followed Christianity. Secondly, throughout the Wife of Bath's tale, the idea that women are inferior to men is rejected. Before the Knight's sentence, the Queen asks the king to "exercise his grace" and then, "ceaselessly, entrusts the case to the queen". Although during this time period men usually held the most power over others, the queen makes the final decision regarding the knight's fate. Not only does The Tale of the Wife of Bath go against the social norms of the 14th century, but also the idea of ​​a growth mindset can also be seen through the outcome of the story. Towards the end of the story the knight must decide whether to let his wife remain old and ugly but loyal or young and beautiful but unfaithful. Also in this case the knight leaves the choice to his wife by stating: "I leave the matter to your wise decision". The knight's decision not only challenges the status quo of the moment, but also displays a growth mindset as he uses previous experience to base his judgment. Finally, the use of a growth mindset can be seen during the queen's sentencing of this knight. The queen grants the knight: “A year and a day to seek and learn.” However, the knight encounters different answers, but still continues to search for the thing most desired by women. Despite the knight's frustration resulting from different responses, he continues to strive to honor his code of chivalry. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Several times throughout, The Wife of Bath's Tale, it is evident that the status quo or normality of the time is constantly being questioned. Many examples in history create situations where the idea that women are inferior to men is shattered. The Knight's condemnation and his decision to give his wife the ultimate choice showcases the social challenges throughout the story. Finally, The Wife of Bath's Tale also demonstrates the idea of ​​a growth mindset through the knight's learning about past decisions. Overall, The Wife of Bath's Tale uses the situations and choices that the characters must undergo to challenge the status quo and display a growth mindset.