How we cite our quotes: (Line number)
Quote #7
It is an honour to everich that is heer
That ye mowe have a suffisant pardoneer
T'assoille yow in contree as ye ryde,
For aventures whiche that may bityde. (645 – 648)
Like every good salesman, the Pardoner knows how to create the perception of the rarity or scarcity of what he's selling. This is equivalent to the "limited time offer." Here, he tells his audience that they're lucky to have him and his pardons on pilgrimage, implying that they'd better take advantage of this fortunate circumstance while they can.
Quote #8
Paraventure ther may fallen oon or two
Doun of his hors, and breke his nekke atwo.
Look, which a seuretee is it to yow alle
That I am in youre felaweship yfalle,
That may assoille yow, bothe moore and lasse,
Whan that the soule shal fro the body passe. (649 – 654)
Dying in a state of sin would have been a major fear of the Pilgrims, steeped in the theology of damnation and hell. But no worries—all they have to do is buy pardons throughout their journey and they'll die in a state of grace.