A Woman's Virture

I came across this quote today from our Companion to Chaucer (333) "...all wives should be honoured but especially those who are distinguished by virtue."  (and boy do I want to add a comma after 'honoured'!) This is from the Morale Scolarium by John of Garland, which Chaucer would have been familiar with. I think this quote sheds light on the tales that feature Griselde, Constuance, and Dorigen. Chaucer's audience probably appreciated these women in a way that we, perhaps, don't. Context is king.