Part 11 Summary

Stanza 111 - Narration comments that the French have won a great victory, that only one Saracen remains alive, and that the French wander through the battlefield grieving for those whose lives have been lost. "Then King Marsile launches a new attack."

Stanza 112 - Marsile leads twenty battalions to the site of the battle, trumpets sounding. Roland hears the trumpets and comments to Oliver that Ganelon has sent them to their deaths, but they will be avenged by Charles. He describes the battle to come as the most difficult they've ever faced, and urges Oliver to charge forward with his sword drawn.

Stanza 113 - Marsile sees how the Saracens have been slaughtered and urges his army forward. His fiercest warrior, Abisme, is described as deeply evil, having no faith in Christ and no humor, and being dear to Marsile. Turpin sees him and longs...