Post date: Nov 1, 2016 1:53:36 PM
While reading the Song of Roland, the only thought running through my head consistently was that Monty Python didn't exaggerate. At. All. Half of the people with mortal wounds just kept going on, even though their brains were leaking from their ears; "it's only a flesh wound" after all.
Both the Song of Roland and Life of Charlemagne portray Frankish culture in a similar way, with Charlemagne as a larger than life figure at the center of it all. From both, the culture at the time can be perceived as dominated by war and glory, as well as the spread of Christianity. Charles conquered so much territory during his reign and attempted to convert all people under him, either through cooperation or force, to create a "union" and "form one people" (Einhard, 200). The same can be said of Charlemagne in The Song of Roland. He fights to conquer land but more importantly to bring others into Christianity's folds. He is willing to allow his troops to retreat due to the promise of Marsilla that he will pledge loyalty and convert (lines 694-97). Of course Charlemagne is more than willing to fight to deal with deceivers and traitors.
Another theme that pops up is the idea of vengeance in order to keep power and honor the dead or salvage a reputation. In the Life of Charlemagne, Charlemagne takes great offense at conquered people who reverse their oaths of loyalty and piety. He subdued anyone who "refused to obey him" and really didn't take no for an answer (201). His fierceness in battle and uncompromising position in regards to loyalty and Christianity of conquered people led him "gaining the good will of several kings and nations" (probably so he wouldn't conquer them) (203).
Within the Song of Roland, Charlemagne and many of his lords react and battle in an act of vengeance for those slain. "My lords, avenge your griefs / and thus relieve your feelings and your hearts" is the heart of the second half after Roland's death (lines 3626-28). Not only will revenge avenge the wrongful death of a comrade or loved one, it also is a motivator to fight and to fight well. On the one hand, fight well so that your death is honorable and will be avenged "well" (2145). On the other fight well in order to "avenge your sons, your brothers, and your heirs / who died" and make their death not be in vain (3411-12). In this sense, the idea of rightness of their actions is prevalent in the ferocious battles fought by those within the Song of Roland as well as the Life of Charlesmagne. It is right to conquer because God wills it and it is right to seek revenge because duty wills it.