SONG OF ROLAND OLIVIER

An epic poem based on the Battle of Roncevaux gallant warrior

Pass in 778 Roland’s companion
La Chanson de Roland 0ne of the 12 peers of France
Centers on the death of Roland at the battle of Dies at the Battle of Roncevaux Pass with Roland
Roncevaux gallant warrior
France Roland’s companion
Charlemagne 0ne of the 12 peers of France
Probably the earliest chanson de geste Dies at the Battle of Roncevaux Pass with Roland
Turold, a Norman poet (probable author) ALDE
MAIN CHARACTERS Oliver’s sister
ROLAND Dies of grief the moment he hears about
hero in the story Roland’s death
a member of twelve peers of France and the
favorite nephew of Charlemagne.
skillful and an extremely bold warrior that
understands the Frankish campaign in Spain as a
crusade
a strong and courageous warrior
He dies a martyr’s death at Roncesvals and was
directly taken up by saints and angels to
paradise.

CHARLEMAGNE
Charles the Great
was the king of Franks
a committed militant Christian
He is an ardent ally of the pope and a great
conqueror
In 800, the pope crowned him as the emperor.
Roland’s uncle

GANELON
the stepfather of Roland
a well-respected Frankish baron
He was offended when Roland nominates him as
a messenger to the Sarcens.
traitor who was eventually killed by being torn
limb by limb by horses.
JURFALEU
Marsile’s only son
Head was chopped off by Roland
CORSABLIS
Evil magician
One of the 12 Saracens picked to battle