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

Short Answer Questions

1. Who steps forward to help Ganelon?

2. Who is not among the French soldiers still alive?

3. What does the Saracen try to steal from Roland?

4. Where is Charlemagne's place among his army?

5. What adorns Baligant's shield?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The trio of Charlemagne, Roland and Oliver is a metaphor for the Holy Trinity. When Charlemagne leaves Roland and Oliver alone with the troops, who assumes the third position? Was the choice obvious? How is it that Charlemagne's people are or are not protected in the Emperor's absence?

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

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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