Chaucer's tales are chiefly (but loosely based) on biblical morality. Characters are either punished or rewarded for their adherence to moral law. The audience should take something away from the lessons learned by each character. (Though it should definitely be pointed out that Chaucer has his gripes with clerical rule.)
Consider for example, the Physicians tale. He concludes his story with the biblical maxim, "the wages of sin is death." The Prioress, who considers cold-blooded murder, must die. The Friar tales stories about people whose greed leads to their downfall. For every moral sin, a punishment is doled out. For example, while promiscuity itself is not often punished, the sinner is punished nonetheless in some other way. For example, the Miller who attempts robbery is punished by having those he tried to steal from sleep with his wife.
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