"Song of Roland"

Paper Summary:

The writer analyzes the anonymous old French epic that possibly dates from the middle of the 11th century. The paper specifically discusses the two main characters as they portray the opposition of good and evil: Roland, the embodiment of feudal chivalry, and Ganelon respectively. The paper finally posits that together these two characters constitute a complete man.

From the Paper:

"Here the conflict between Ganelon and Roland escalates, for Ganelon, lacking Roland's courage and sense of honor, is infuriated when Roland first suggests that he be Charles's emissary and then jeers at his stepfather's fear of danger, volunteering to go himself since Ganelon cowers so. Envious of the king's favoritism toward Roland and humiliated by Roland's insult, Ganelon vows to "stir up such a feud with . . . [Roland]/that it will last as long as . . . [he's] alive" (I. 290-291). Upon reaching Saragossa, Ganelon enlists the help of Marsilla to betray Roland, and thus the battle between good and evil, the conflict between loyalty and treason, ensues vehemently."

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