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Three Preludes to the Song of Roland: Gui of Burgundy, Roland at Saragossa, and Otinel

Three Preludes to the Song of Roland: Gui of Burgundy, Roland at Saragossa, and Otinel

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  • More about Three Preludes to the Song of Roland: Gui of Burgundy, Roland at Saragossa, and Otinel

The Cycle of the King is a collection of chansons de geste inspired by the Song of Roland,which provides insights into the medieval reception of the Roland material. This volume offers English translations of the three epic poems whose action precedes the events of the Song of Roland,including Gui of Burgundy, Roland at Saragossa, and Otinel.

Format: Hardback
Length: 290 pages
Publication date: 18 July 2023
Publisher: Boydell & Brewer Ltd


The Song of Roland, a renowned romance epic, inspired a series of chansons de geste, known collectively as the Cycle of the King. These chansons, written in various medieval languages, not only reinterpreted the original Song of Roland but also celebrated Charlemagne's military campaigns against the Muslims. The Cycle of the King offers valuable insights into the medieval reception of the Roland material, showcasing the process of cycle formation and the diverse interpretations of the epic.

Gui of Burgundy, one of the chansons, extends the period of Charles and his army's stay in Spain from seven to twenty-six years, allowing the sons of the Twelve Peers to mature and come to their fathers' rescue. Roland at Saragossa, composed in Occitan, takes place in the days preceding the decisive defeat and humorously recounts how Roland sneaks into Saragossa at the request of the pagan Queen Braslimonda, captivated by his strength and beauty.

Otinel, another chanson, tells the story of a Saracen envoy who travels to Paris to challenge Charlemagne on behalf of the Emir Garsile, who resides in Lombardy. The action unfolds in France and northern Italy during a lull between the capture of Pamplona and the defeat at Roncevaux.

These chansons de geste present a complex and nuanced portrayal of the clash of civilizations. They glorify and critique hatred and violence simultaneously, offering a multifaceted understanding of the medieval world. The Cycle of the King contributes to our understanding of the literary and cultural heritage of the Middle Ages and the enduring influence of the Song of Roland.

Weight: 574g
Dimension: 163 x 243 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781843846963

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