The Song of Roland

The moral code that permeates later chivalric romances was still in flux during The Song of Roland’s composition. Some characteristics, such as it being dishonorable to attack from behind, as Marganice does when he “strikes Oliver right in the back” (Line 1945), are consistent with later forms of chivalry. However, Roland’s code of chivalric honor also looks back to older forms of heroism and familial duty.

Familial duty plays a large role in Roland’s plot. Roland is honor-bound to Charlemagne as his vassal and as his nephew, and to Ganelon as his stepson. In the dispute between Charlemagne and Ganelon regarding Roland’s placement in the rearguard, this code of familial duty requires both Roland and Charlemagne to follow Ganelon’s suggestion. Roland cites “dishonour [to] my family” (Line 788), for example, when refusing the king’s additional troops. Roland’s trust in Ganelon signals Roland’s adherence to these cultural virtues rather than his blindness to Ganelon’s plans (See: Poem Analysis).

Roland’s bravery in combat and his admission that “a vassal must suffer hardships” (Line 1010) suggest that he also embodies chivalric virtues consistent with those of ancient heroic figures. Like the heroes of Greek myth, Roland “fear[s] no threats” (Line 293). Martial prowess is essential to chivalric honor, which often links victory and moral correctness.