The Pardoner sells his wares by targeting the common people’s religious and social fears of being excluded or persecuted and advertising that only the goods he possesses can save them. When the Pardoner enters a village he: show[s] them [his] bulls in detail and in sum.
And flaunt[s] the papal seal for their inspection
As warrant for [his] bodily protection,
That none may have the impudence to irk
Or hinder [him] in Christ’s most holy work.
Then [he] tell[s] stories, as occasion calls,
Showing forth bulls from popes and cardinals,
From patriarchs and bishops... (Chaucer, 241)
The Pardoner describes himself “flaunt[ing]” the false papers from the pope and church to show his fearlessness in selling his wares. He is clearly not ashamed nor afraid
And flaunt[s] the papal seal for their inspection
As warrant for [his] bodily protection,
That none may have the impudence to irk
Or hinder [him] in Christ’s most holy work.
Then [he] tell[s] stories, as occasion calls,
Showing forth bulls from popes and cardinals,
From patriarchs and bishops... (Chaucer, 241)
The Pardoner describes himself “flaunt[ing]” the false papers from the pope and church to show his fearlessness in selling his wares. He is clearly not ashamed nor afraid