The Song of Roland: Annotated and Explained

The Song of Roland (Annotated)

by C. K. Scott-Moncrieff

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	294 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	144 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

The Song of Roland is one of the most famous and influential works of medieval literature. It tells the story of the Battle of Roncevaux Pass, in which the Frankish rearguard was defeated by the Basques. The poem has been praised for its vivid descriptions of battle, its stirring account of heroism, and its tragic ending.

This annotated edition includes extensive notes that explain the poem's historical context, its literary significance, and its enduring appeal. The notes are written by a team of experts in medieval literature and history, and they provide a wealth of information that will help readers to understand and appreciate the poem.

The Historical Context

The Battle of Roncevaux Pass took place in 778 AD, during the reign of Charlemagne. Charlemagne was the first king of the Franks, and he ruled over a vast empire that stretched from the Atlantic Ocean to the Elbe River. In 778 AD, Charlemagne led an expedition into Spain to fight against the Muslims. The expedition was successful, and Charlemagne captured the city of Zaragoza. However, as Charlemagne's army was returning to France, it was attacked by the Basques in the Roncevaux Pass.

The Battle of Roncevaux Pass was a disaster for the Franks. The Basque army was much smaller than the Frankish army, but it was more familiar with the terrain. The Basques used their knowledge of the mountains to their advantage, and they were able to ambush the Franks. The Franks were routed, and many of them were killed, including Roland, one of Charlemagne's most trusted knights.

The Literary Significance

The Song of Roland is a masterpiece of medieval literature. It is one of the earliest examples of a chanson de geste, a type of epic poem that tells the story of a hero or a group of heroes. The Song of Roland is also one of the first works of literature to be written in French.

The poem is full of vivid descriptions of battle, and it is written in a stirring and heroic style. The poem also contains many elements of Christian symbolism, and it reflects the religious beliefs of the medieval world.

The Song of Roland has had a profound influence on Western literature. It has been translated into many languages, and it has been adapted into plays, operas, and films. The poem is still read and studied today, and it continues to inspire new generations of readers.

The Enduring Appeal

The Song of Roland is a timeless classic that has appealed to readers for centuries. The poem's vivid descriptions of battle, its stirring account of heroism, and its tragic ending continue to resonate with readers today. The poem also offers a valuable glimpse into the medieval world, and it provides a fascinating insight into the beliefs and values of the time.

This annotated edition of The Song of Roland is the perfect way to experience this classic work of literature. The notes provide a wealth of information that will help readers to understand and appreciate the poem. This edition is essential reading for anyone who is interested in medieval literature, history, or culture.

The Song of Roland is one of the most important and influential works of medieval literature. It is a masterpiece of storytelling, and it offers a valuable glimpse into the medieval world. This annotated edition of The Song of Roland is the perfect way to experience this classic work of literature.

The Song of Roland (Annotated)

by C. K. Scott-Moncrieff

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	294 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	144 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE