What was phlegm in The Canterbury Tales?

You're likely thinking of the character "The Wife of Bath" in Chaucer's *The Canterbury Tales*. While there isn't a direct reference to phlegm in the text, the Wife of Bath is known for her volubility and frankness, qualities that could be metaphorically linked to the concept of "phlegm."

Here's why:

* Phlegm is often associated with:

* Excess: The Wife of Bath is a character known for her strong opinions and willingness to speak her mind, often at length. This could be seen as an "excess" of speech.

* Viscosity: Phlegm is thick and sticky, suggesting something that flows slowly but steadily. This might resonate with the Wife's persistent and determined nature.

* Coughing: The Wife's outspokenness and tendency to contradict others could be viewed as a "coughing up" of her thoughts and feelings.

However, it's important to remember that Chaucer's descriptions are much more nuanced than a simple association with phlegm.

The Wife of Bath is a complex character:

* She is strong and independent: She has been married five times and is not afraid to express her opinions on marriage and sexuality.

* She is witty and intelligent: She is a skilled storyteller who uses humor and irony to make her points.

* She is contradictory: She is both a devout Christian and a woman who embraces her own desires.

Ultimately, "phlegm" is not a direct descriptor of the Wife of Bath, but it is a metaphor that could be used to highlight certain aspects of her personality.