Song Of Roland Analysis

In the epic poem, Song of Roland, controversy of who is has more power over the large empire of the Franks, that recently were recently converted to a Christian Empire; The king of the Franks and reason why the empire converted, Charlemagne (means “Charles the Great” and also referred to as Karolus Magnus in Latin) or Pope Leo III and the Medieval Catholic Church during the Crusades. In many different sections of the epic, Charlemagne showed that he was the one in charge by key situations and actions over church such as declaring for an offensive attack on pagans in another territory, trialing and veridiction of a man, the divine power given to Charlemagne in times of despair, and prompting halt and amnesty to those who convert. In summary …show more content…
Charlemagne makes his first decision that shows he over rules the Medieval Catholic Church. Charlemagne is consulted by Roland about the matter. Roland defends his outlook on the decision as questioning their Christian religious obligation. Though blunt, but considerably making a case of saving the risk of another war in the future and refusing to negotiate with the Saracens. Charlemagne finds Roland as not as knowledgeable on the matter, he chooses to ignore Roland’s sayings. He takes Marsile on his offer, mainly to avoid a lengthy war, and grant him amnesty and repentance with his choice. In the Medieval ages, Archbishops were ones who grant pardons to the many people. The Archbishop would also have to have confirmed approval from the Pope to award anyone with such privilege.
After having it scribed, Charlemagne then sends Ganelon, Roland’s step father, to deliver his message of negotiations. Ganelon is outraged because Roland nominated him to go on such a journey. Ganelon knew that Roland had nominated him to be the messenger, for Roland was King Charlemagne’s right-hand man, earned through his courageous efforts and triumphs. Roland …show more content…
Gabriel gives orders to Charlemagne to depart on another conquest to and wage a new war against the Islamic people there. Charlemagne, still not mentally recovered from the losses of his trusted men from the last war, prepares for the journey at hand, remaining faithful to his religious duty. The epic once again that Charlemagne is conjecturally right under God and his angels in chain of command, thus giving him the power to eclipse that of the Medieval Catholic Church and Pope Leo III. In conclusion, the Song of Roland displays that after the conversion of King Charlemagne from being a Pagan to being a Christian, he has been a servant of God, from discipleship to following direct orders that was selected for him to carry out. Charlemagne position of King granted him power previous to conversion, but enhances greatly after, rising him over church officials during his