The old woman in "The Wife of Bath's tale" argues that true gentility is determined by virtue and good behavior, not by birth or social status.
The old woman in "The Wife of Bath's tale" responds to the knight's remark that she is "low-bred" by arguing that true gentility is not determined by birth or social status, but by virtue and good behavior.
First, she criticizes the knight's belief that noble birth automatically makes someone virtuous. She gives examples of noble men who have behaved dishonorably.
Then, she emphasizes that it is one's deeds and actions that define their nobility, not their birth. She tells the knight that as long as he treats her with respect and kindness, she will be a loyal and faithful wife.
In summary, the old woman argues that true gentility comes from one's actions and virtues, not from social status or birth.