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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. How many times does Roland sound the horn?

2. Which one of the following is not a reason to summon Charlemagne?

3. How does Charlemagne refer to Ganelon?

4. According to Marsile, Charlemagne is how old?

5. Archbishop Turpin kills which mystical Saracen?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the final message from the angel to Charlemagne? How does Charlemagne respond?

2. About what does Roland ask Oliver's advice? Why do the men agree or disagree?

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

4. Charlemagne must decide what to do as night is beginning to fall. What is Charlemagne's plan and the result?

5. What is Charlemagne's reaction to Ganelon as the plan continues? What does Charlemagne's comment imply?

6. What happened when two of Charlemagne's counts went to Marsile to try and take over Saragossa? Which two counts went on the mission?

7. Roland attempts to break his sword just before he dies. Why? How does Roland attempt to break it?

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

9. Marsile nearly makes a fatal mistake when devising the first plan. What is the initial plan and what was the mistake?

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

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

As with many ancient tales, some of the numbers used in the story are obviously inaccurate. For example, Charlemagne is said to be at least 200 years old. Roland is able to slay 4,000 Saracens although he is mortally wounded. What is the purpose and explanation of these numbers? Do the numbers represent anything in particular? How might one uncover the true numbers in the story?

Essay Topic 3

Marsile, Baligant, Roland, and Charlemagne all have different methods of arranging their troops before battle. Compare the Saracens' methods against the French. Also compare Marsile's methods to Baligant's and Roland's methods to those employed by Charlemagne.

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