Part 20 Summary

Stanza 228 - Drums beat and horns sound as Baligant's armies prepare for war. Narration extensively details the armor in which Baligant dresses himself, how attractive and noble he appears, and comments he'd be a great hero if he'd only have been baptized. This comment is juxtaposed with a description of how he draws blood, when he spurs his horse, which leaps a broad ditch. The Saracens give voice to the belief that with Baligant in charge their armies cannot lose, and call Charles a fool for continuing to fight.

Stanza 229 - Narration comments again on how great a warrior Baligant is and describes the courage of his son, who says he'd be surprised if Charles remained in the country to fight them. Baligant says Charles is no coward, but adds that since Roland is dead, Charles has no real power.

Stanzas 230, 231 - Baligant...