In Chaucer's 'Troilus and Criseyde', Troilus is the hero, but Criseyde is the more appealing character. Discuss.

<Tab/>One of the most striking elements of Troilus and Criseyde is the difference in Chaucer's presentation of the two lovers. Whereas Troilus is certainly the better person of the two, I intend to show that the reader ultimately finds it easier to identify with and believe in the character of Criseyde, since she is by far the more credibly human in her actions and thoughts. <Tab/>…showed first 75 words of 2122 total…

…showed last 75 words of 2122 total…self-regarding, but is far more appealing to the reader than Troilus, who is valiant and true, but does not wash as a believable character. Perhaps in this respect the pairing could never have lasted; "Criseyde is a person and will not, cannot, be Troilus's ideal. " - It is significant that at the end of the book Criseyde is still alive in the world of the practical, whereas Troilus' classically romantic spirit has ascended to paradise.