In The Canterbury Tales, the "General Prologue" foreshadows the special function and style of the "Clerk's Tale." The paper presented here provides a close reading of those two sections and how they intertwine to provide a greater depth to the abstract and idealized character of the pilgrim clerk.Broomhandle Books created its section of Continuing Education pieces to provide readers with thoughtful considerations on books read by others. Instead of the dashed off "reviews" one might find at retailers or club websites, these pieces are meant to provide a more in-depth consideration of the books themselves.