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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 Aelroth?

2. Which of these characteristics regarding Charlemagne is not among those listed by Ganelon?

3. According to Marsile, Charlemagne is how old?

4. What is the name of Ganelon's horse?

5. What sign of peace will go with Marsile's people?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Marsile want Charlemagne to do? What is Marsile's promise?

2. What does Roland do to anger Ganelon? What is Ganelon's response?

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

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

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

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

7. Why is it important to note that Roland and Archbishop Turpin are the last two remaining French soldiers?

8. What is Charlemagne's reaction when he hears Roland's second call? What does Charlemagne request of his men?

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

When Bromimonde went with Charlemagne, the former Queen struggled. What did Charlemagne say to ensure that he meant no harm? What fate befell Bromimonde in Aix? How did the Queen react? What changes occurred in Bromimonde after the fall of Saragossa?

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

In order to decide if Ganelon should be executed, there is a battle between Thierry and Pinabel. The battle is also a metaphor for good versus evil, much like the battle fought between Roland and Marsile and Charlemagne and Baligant. Compare and contrast the three battles and their outcomes.

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