"The Song of Roland"

Paper Summary:

The paper explains that "The Song of Roland" is an epic poem, which tells the story of how, after seven long years of fighting, King Charlemagne's French forces were eliminated by Muslim forces during the Crusades in Spain; Count Roland is Charlemagne's nephew, a brave and gallant knight who serves Charlemagne well. The author points out that this poem, probably written around the year 1100, is the oldest known epic poem, a format that was very popular at this time. The paper concludes that Roland, an epic hero and a symbol of knighthood and chivalry, demonstrates that those who are true to their beliefs and religion can do mighty things and will be greeted on their journey to heaven.

From the Paper:

"Roland is clearly Charlemagne's favorite, he says of him "'God! If I lose him, no one can take his place'" (35). Yet, even though he has an ominous dream, he sends Roland off to command the rear guard as Ganelon has suggested, and so, he seals Roland's fate. Yet, even though Ganelon is a traitor, Roland will not listen to anything bad about his stepfather. He admonishes Oliver when he calls him "false-hearted" (42), and is true to his family, even though they are not true to him. This intense loyalty extends to his king, to his men, and to his conviction that Christianity must spread throughout the world. This loyalty is an important part of chivalry, and Roland is an excellent example of what people of the time felt chivalry should represent."

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