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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who is the ruler of the region?

2. The soldiers equated the plague as:

3. The poem states that Charlemagne cannot save himself from:

4. What event will be celebrated with Charlemagne?

5. Roland asks Oliver's advice about what?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens when Charlemagne hears the call? How does the Emperor respond to his nephew's call for help?

2. What happens to Oliver and what is the result of the conflict? How does Roland react?

3. Charlemagne chooses two new generals to be at his side in battle. Who do the generals replace and what do they symbolize?

4. What does Marsile's nephew claim that he needs in order to defeat Roland? What will the result be?

5. What is the supposed reason that the city remains under the rule of another king?

6. What is Ganelon's argument against the condemnation for Roland's death? Does anyone believe the tale and support Ganelon's cause?

7. What does Ganelon propose to Marsile on behalf of Charlemagne?

8. Baligant believes that Charlemagne has lost all his power. What causes Baligant to make that statement? How do the others respond to the comment?

9. Why does Marsile ask his counselors for help? Who comes up with a plan?

10. What is the final plan that will allow Marsile to defeat Charlemagne's men?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There are many references in the poem as to the invincibility of Charlemagne. Among those references is the recurring appearance of the angels, particularly Gabriel, the King's great faith, and the possession of the spear that lanced Christ's side. What other symbols exist to protect Charlemagne? Are there similar symbols/references on behalf of Marsile or Baligant? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

Before the war begins, Marsile summons fellow warrior and pagan Baligant to come to his aid. Baligant's trip is long, which affects Marsile's plan. Marsile also had to use coercion to get Baligant to come to Saragossa. What is the personal relationship between Marsile and Baligant? Where was Baligant's home? How did Baligant travel? What was used to coerce Baligant to go to Marsile's aid?

Essay Topic 3

Charlemagne finally learns of Ganelon's crimes. How does Charlemagne find out? What is the Emperor's reaction toward Ganelon? How is Ganelon's fate finally decided? What is the final punishment for the traitor?

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