Among the "seven deadly sins" there are a series of vices that afflict humanity even today. Not main but certainly not desirable is that of "Greed" or "Avarice". Greed can be described as “intense, selfish desire for something, especially wealth or power.” Within The Canterbury Tales, Geoffrey Chaucer displays the full spectrum of human morality. In more than one tale, the topic of greed proved very popular among the traveling caravan. In The Pardoner's Tale, the content of the tale provides the best and clearest depiction of the vice of greed, as well as the results that can occur if one falls into it, just as the Pardoner himself represents someone who is consumed by greed. The Pardoner's Tale, during the Prologue, the Pardoner himself admits that he is aware of his sins. He is aware of his vices, but this does not prevent him from denouncing the acts of those around him, nor from offering them repentance. His story tells of how greed can trample good intentions and blind the heart. The story is set in Flanders, the continent of Northern Europe. The story begins in typical Canterbury style with three men sitting in a tavern. The Pardoner never misses an opportunity to mention how these men sin with drinking and gambling. He goes so far as to quote the Holy Scripture: "The body of our dear Lord they will tear in pieces, as if the Jew had not torn it enough"; (Chaucer 263). Despite the crimes the Pardoner accuses them of, he continues to tell the stories of the young people. It's a story that begins with the three men discussing how someone called "Death" killed one of their acquaintances and seeking revenge. It seems that this killer also has the blood of many characters... in the midst of a paper charity campaign, or rather an obvious campaign. Just as the Pardoner does, Jim Jones used his "authority" and undeniable charisma to exploit his followers to the bitter end. In summary, the Pardoner and his story are excellent examples of greed and avarice, as are televangelists and cult leaders. examples in the modern world. Everyone uses their talents and authority to take advantage of those who are weaker willed and use them to their advantage. The Pardoner sells graces for spiritual repentance, the televangelist does a similar thing when he asks for donations, "for the church". The cult leader uses his "God's chosen" status to judge people who seek guidance just as the Pardoner sells relics for the same purpose. The worst part of all this is that these men are greedy and are fully aware of their actions and how terrible they can be..