Newer Currents in Psychoanalytic Criticism and the Difference 'It' Makes: Gender and Desire in the 'Miller's Tale'

Description: With its richness subverting fabliau conventions, MilT glitters with multiple significations. Alison, the central figure, is both sexy and presexual, both Medusa and "bryd" (in multiple and homonymous senses). Unlike the traditional old cuckold, John is trustful, caring, almost parental. Absolon, like the Miller in loving music and drama, combines the vindictive and the childlike. The Miller works his audience to achieve a discharge of laughter.