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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 tries to make peace between Roland and Oliver?

2. What is the name of the nephew to Richard the Old?

3. Who/what is Murgles?

4. Roland kills how many Saracens with his spear?

5. Which animal was not taken on the journey as a gift?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is Marsile's attitude toward Charlemagne? How will the King approach his rival?

2. The French are greatly outnumbered after Marsile arrives. Although the French are sure to die, what causes them to push on?

3. Who was Siglorel and why was he important to Archbishop Turpin?

4. What is the purpose of Archbishop Turpin's presence? What does Turpin do while at the camp?

5. What major events cause Marsile and many other Saracens to flee the battle even though they are winning against the French?

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

7. What happens after Roland enters the grove of trees? How does Roland react?

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

9. According to part one, what is Roland's role in the Song of Roland?

10. Why is Charlemagne puzzled at Alda's reaction to the deaths of Roland and Oliver? What is the cause of Alda's reaction?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

After Charlemagne defeated Baligant, the French troops rode to Saragossa to take control of the city. Explain the actions taken by Charlemagne's men and the purpose behind each. What was the point of trying to convert the pagans? How did Marsile escape being taken back to Aix? What became of Bromimonde?

Essay Topic 2

The battle between Marsile and Charlemagne is actual and metaphoric. Examine the conflict between the kingdoms, their politics and their difference in religious beliefs. How do the latter affect the way the soldiers fight? How did the preparations (or lack thereof) affect the outcome of the battles?

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?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 620 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample