A reader must always remember that the foremost theme of this poem is the triumph and superiority of Christianity over foreign religions and foreign civilizations (i.e. the Saracens). "The Song of Roland evolves around the image of an old king whose mission is the establishment and constant defense of an empire beloved of God" (Uitti, 65). Therefore Charlemagne, as the

Charlemagne's mourning scenes at the death of Roland in laisses 177 and 207-210 (Sayers, 143; 161-163) are some of the most poignant displays of emotion in the entire poem. These distinctly human reactions show Charlemagne in a human and vulnerable light. Often in the poem, especially at council in opening laisses, Charlemagne appears to be cautious and hesitant to make decisions. When contrasted with the rashness of Roland, Charlemagne "was a man not hasty in reply / But wont to speak only when well advised" (p. 56, laissez 10). Modern audiences might not find that this characteristic of Charlemagne detracts from his characterization in the poem or ability as a leader however it breaks down the epic character of the emperor.

French literature of the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, which is famous primarily for its romances and other stories of the adventures of chivalrous knights, is indebted to La Chanson de Roland for its presentation of the king Charlemagne. As the social and political climate of France evolved, French literature reflects these changes and the eventual rise of feudalism as a viable sociopolitical system. The foundations for the rise of feudalism are clearly found in La Chanson de Roland, which serves as a watershed in the development of French literature.

Holy Roman Emperor and leader of the religiously devoted Franks, is represented in the poem as the incarnation of Christianity on earth. "The memory of the imperial power of the historical Charlemagne contributes potently to the original mystery of the epic king of France. But it was Charles the warrior, the right arm of the Church, the valiant defender of Christendom against pagan and Infidel invasion that comes most prominently into view" (Comfort, 285). Charlemagne, with the help of his knights, has been divinely elected to carry out the all-important mission of spreading Christianity across Western Europe. They are engaging in what they interpret as God's will by conquering Saracen civilization ultimately converting pagans.

Charlemagne's close ties with God and Christianity are evident all throughout the text and can be illustrated with several examples. Most demonstrative of Charlemagne's role as divine agent on earth is the series of three dream

Some common words found in the essay are:
La Chanson, Roland Charlemagne, Dark Ages, God Christianity, Immediately Roland's, St Gabriel, Testament Bible, France Charles, Roman Emperor, Charlemagne God, chanson de, french literature, de roland, la chanson, chanson de roland, la chanson de, de geste, chansons de geste, chansons de, charlemagne's character, death roland, national unity, twelfth thirteenth centuries, nobility la, french literature twelfth,
Approximate Word count = 1523
Approximate Pages = 6 (250 words per page double spaced)