For som folk wol ben wonnen for richesse,
And somme for strokes, and somme for gentillesse.
– Geoffrey Chaucer
The Canterbury Tales, The Miller’s Tale. As Absolon bids to woo Alison with sweetened wine, spiced ale, hot waffles and offers of money, the Miller reveals that these are the things that win over lovers: riches, force and gentleness. Alison is presented here as a prize to be won in a competition.