Here's a breakdown of why:
* The Wife of Bath herself: She's undoubtedly the central figure, narrating her own experiences with marriage and challenging societal norms. She's bold, outspoken, and fiercely independent, qualities often associated with heroic figures. However, she's also flawed, with a history of multiple marriages and a strong desire for control.
* The Knight: He's presented as a traditional hero, albeit one who commits a crime (rape). He's given a chance to redeem himself through a quest, but the true hero's journey is arguably undertaken by the Wife herself, as she negotiates the terms of the knight's redemption and ultimately dictates his future.
* The Old Woman: This character, initially perceived as ugly and undesirable, is ultimately revealed to be wise and insightful. She guides the knight towards true understanding and serves as a catalyst for his transformation.
Ultimately, "hero" in this story is a complex concept. The Wife of Bath, the Knight, and even the Old Woman all play significant roles in the narrative and contribute to the themes of power, gender, and the pursuit of happiness.
Instead of focusing on a singular hero, it's more fruitful to consider how the characters interact and challenge conventional notions of heroism throughout the tale.