This proposal compares the gender roles and expectations for women in Chaucer's time with the character of the Wife of Bath from his work. The student will analyze how the Wife of Bath challenges these norms by having a strong, outspoken personality and interpreting the Bible in her own way. Specific points that will be covered include providing context on societal norms, the Wife of Bath's refutation of ideals of piousness, and a comparison of her character with what was typically acceptable behavior for women in the 14th century.