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How does The Song of Roland begin? What does this reveal about the central topics of the poem?
The Song of Roland does not commence with an overview of the deeds of the titular character. Instead, the poet sings of the campaigns of the Frankish King Charles, otherwise known to posterity as Charlemagne (literally meaning, "Charles the Great"). From the opening lines onwards, the fate of Charlemagne and his empire take center stage as a symbol of the fate of Christendom itself.
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What are the objectives of the Saracens in The Song of Roland? Why are they so nervous about the actions of Charlemagne and the Franks?
The Saracens of Saragossa fear Charlemagne and...
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