The moral of the Pardoner’s Tale is a powerful reminder about the destructive nature of greed and the inevitability of death. In the story, three rioters set out to find and kill Death, but ultimately, their greed leads them to betray and kill one another over a pot of gold they discover. This tale illustrates how the pursuit of wealth can corrupt individuals and lead to their downfall.
Furthermore, the tale teaches that death is the great equalizer; no amount of wealth can protect one from it. The characters’ initial bravado and desire for riches are ultimately futile, as they cannot escape their mortal fate. It serves as a warning that focusing on material gain can lead to moral decay and self-destruction.