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Date added: 6.4.2015
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Originally published in 1913 as a portion of the author’s larger “The Book of Epic,” and equivalent in length to a physical book of approximately 16 pages, this Kindle edition retells, in plain English prose, the story of the twelfth century FrenchMoreOriginally published in 1913 as a portion of the author’s larger “The Book of Epic,” and equivalent in length to a physical book of approximately 16 pages, this Kindle edition retells, in plain English prose, the story of the twelfth century French epic poem “The Song of Roland” (“La Chanson de Roland”).Includes supplemental introductory material:• About Roland in Brief• About “The Song of Roland” in Brief• About Charlemagne in Brief• About the Battle of Roncesvalles in BriefSample passage:Because the enemies’ force so greatly outnumbers theirs, Oliver suggests that Roland sound his horn to summon Charlemagne to his aid- but, unwilling to lose any glory, this hero refuses, declaring he will strike one hundred thousand such doughty blows with his mighty sword (Durendal), that all the pagans will be laid low. In spite of the fact that Oliver thrice implores him to summon aid, Roland thrice refuses- so his friend, perceiving he will not yield, finally declares they must do their best, and adds that, should they not get the better of the foe, they will at least die fighting nobly. Then Archbishop Turpin—one of the peers—assures the soldiers that, since they are about to die as martyrs, they will earn Paradise, and pronounces the absolution, thus inspiring the French with such courage that, on rising from their knees, they rush forward to earn a heavenly crown.About the author:Helene A. Guerber (1859-1929) was a British historian and author who brought literature and history to life. Other works include “The Story of the Greeks,” “Stories of Shakespeare’s Tragedies,” and “The Story of the Thirteen Colonies.” The Song of Roland Retold in Modern Engish Prose (Annotated) by H.A. Guerber
