Chansons de Geste
Pfaffe Konrad, Rolandslied (1172)
Wesle, K. (ed.): Pfaffe Konrad, Das Rolandslied. 2nd ed. revised by P. Wapnewski. (=ATB 69) Tübingen 1967.
PKRL-31:
Karl prays for God’s help in conversion of the heathens, so that they may escape their fate in hell.
Motif References:
V 50 Prayer
PKRL-47:
An angel comes as God’s messenger to Karl and gives him orders to go to Spain; he prophesies that he will convert heathens; those who oppose him will go to hell.
Motif References:
A 165.2.3 Angels as God’s messengers
A 182.3 God (angel) speaks to mortal
V 235 Mortal visited by angel
V 243 Angel answers mortal’s prayer
Z 254 Destined hero
V 301 (Li) Heathens and Christians
M 301.10 Angels as prophets
M 364.3 Prophecy: saint [holy man] will succeed in conversion
H 927.2 Task assigned by angel on God’s order
PKRL-65:
Karl wins twelve peers (Ruolant and Olivir are the most famous of them) as support in his fight against the heathens.
Motif References:
P 50 Noblemen (knights) [rules of chivalry]
Z 71.8 Formulistic number: twelve
PKRL-133:
All of them vow with their hands lifted to fight and convert heathens.
Motif References:
M 166 Other vows about fighting
PKRL-165:
Christian warriors attach the sign of the cross to their clothes.
Motif References:
V 86 Sign of the Cross
PKRL-180:
Karl gives a speech on a hill. He encourages his followers by describing the heathens’ cruelty: they rob and plunder, destroy churches, sacrifice Christians to their Gods or use them as targets.
Motif References:
V 11.10 Sacrifice to idols
R 51 Mistreatment of prisoners
S 180 Wounding or torturing
S 260.1 Human sacrifice
PKRL-223:
Archbishop Turpin, one of the twelve pairs, encourages the men.
Motif References:
P 122.3 (Bm) Bishop encourages combat and wages battle
PKRL-273:
The Christians leave for Spain, the heathens withdraw across the river Gerunde, burning their country behind them.
Motif References:
PKRL-285:
The heathens are very sure of victory, are very proud, play games and make loud music.
Motif References:
W 200 Traits of character – miscellaneous
PKRL-299:
A captured heathen shows the Christians a ford across the Gerunde to the heathen castle Tortolose.
Motif References:
PKRL-305:
Ruolant blows his horn: the gods Machmet and Appolle are discouraged and lose their voices; houses tremble, the heathens despair, the earth quakes, fish get nervous, birds begin to sing, mountains echo; many fall down as if dead.
Motif References:
Z 201 (Bm) Famous possessions of hero
F 899 Other extraordinary objects
F 969.4 Extraordinary earthquake
F 989 Extraordinary occurrences concerning animals – miscellaneous
F 1041 Extraordinary physical reactions of persons
F 1099 Additional marvels
D 1222 Magic horn (musical)
PKRL-341:
The heathens flee into their temple, where devils take their souls. They surrender to the king and are baptized by bishop Turpin. Karl converts many other Spanish towns to Christianity by force, except for Sarraguz, which is ruled by Marsilie.
Motif References:
R 75 Surrendering
V 112 Temples
G 303.9.5 The devil as an abductor
R 325 Church (altar) [temple] as refuge
V 331.1 Conversion to Christianity through miracle
V 331.2 Conversion to Christianity on pain of death [by force]
V 332 Baptism of heathen
V 340 Miracle manifested to non-believers
E 752.2 Soul carried off by demon (Devil)
PKRL-391:
Marsilie claps his hands and convenes a council with six counts and six dukes under an olive-tree.
Motif References:
Z 71.8 Formulistic number: twelve
P 557.0.1 (Li) Council of war
PKRL-443:
The counselor of court, Blanscandiz, advises sending twelve men with presents and hostages (princes’ sons) to Karl. They shall induce the retreat of the Christian army by pretended submission. Karl’s governors can then be caught and exchanged for hostages.
Motif References:
P 14.15.1 (Old, wise) Counsellors of court [King’s council]
K 2369 Military strategy – miscellaneous
PKRL-567:
Marsilie sends twelve messengers with palm branches and ten white mules laden with gold to Karl’s camp.
Motif References:
P 14.15.2 Court messenger
Z 71.8 Formulistic number: twelve
Z 142 Symbolic color: white
Z 157 Olive [palm] branch symbol of peace [victory]
PKRL-625:
The heathen messengers approach Karl’s vast camp, which gleams like gold. Herded lions and bears fight in a park; knights exercise (shoot and jump, fight with swords and shields, exercise with falcons), people make music and tell stories, law is administered, the trained eagles provide shadow.
Motif References:
P 19 Other motifs connected with kings
B 579 Animals serve men otherwise
F 818 Extraordinary garden
B 845 Wild animals herded
PKRL-675:
The messengers throw themselves at the feet of different persons, believing them to be Karl. They finally perceive him playing chess.
Motif References:
P 14.3 King playing chess when important news arrives
J 1766 One person mistaken for another
PKRL-683:
Karl can not be mistaken because of his outstanding beauty; he has luminous eyes, so that no one can look straight into them.
Motif References:
H 41 Recognition of royalty [nobility] by personal characteristics or traits
H 71.6 Bright eyes as sign of royalty (nobility)
H 71 Marks of royalty
F 541.1 Flashing eyes
F 575.2 Handsome man
PKRL-697:
Karl is a just king; he teaches law dictated by an angel and is a courageous warrior.
Motif References:
P 12 Character of kings
P 14 Particular practices of kings
V 246.0.2 Angel dictates (gives) book [law]
P 522 Laws
PKRL-709:
Blanscandiz offers submission and conversion. He promises presents and asks Karl to leave the country; the heathen princes will come to Aachen on St Michael’s day. He offers hostages.
Motif References:
PKRL-801:
Karl accepts this offer and forgives the evil the heathens have done (beheading of Christian messengers), because they promise conversion and carry palm branches (symbol of victory) like Jesus riding into Jerusalem.
Motif References:
R 51.4 Prisoner[s] [hostages, messengers] massacred [killed]
S 133 Murder by beheading
Z 157 Olive [palm] branch symbol of peace [victory]
PKRL-839:
In the meantime, heathens sally out from the besieged town; they are fought back by Christians in furious combat (warriors wade in blood) and withdraw into their castle.
Motif References:
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
F 1084.1 Deep streams of blood flow during battle
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]
PKRL-881:
“Monsoy” as Christian war-cry.
Motif References:
P 557 Military customs
PKRL-883:
Ruolant fights with his sword Durendart, Olivir with Alteclere.
Motif References:
Z 201.2 (Bm) Hero’s famous sword
PKRL-891:
A council is held in Karl’s camp on how to deal with Marsilie’s proposal. Ruolant, Olivir and the other peers believe that the offer is a ruse and want to fight and convert the heathens.
Motif References:
P 557.0.1 (Li) Council of war
PKRL-969:
Also archbishop Turpin proposes to wage war: Christians shall accomplish their task, the kingdom of heaven waits for the martyrs. They shall follow the pigeon with the olive-branch, not the black raven. Only Genelun believes the heathens and pleads for peace. He starts a heated argument with Ruolant, Karl’s nephew.
Motif References:
P 122.3 (Bm) Bishop encourages combat and wages battle
Z 150 Other symbols
PKRL-1154:
Karl gets angry with the quarrel between Ruolant and Genelun – he strokes his beard and asks for law to be administered.
Motif References:
P 14 Particular practices of kings
P 522 Laws
PKRL-1166:
The princes retire on a hill to deliberate. Genelun’s advice to return home is again refused.
Motif References:
P 548 Miscellaneous legal customs [problems]
PKRL-1246:
The old bishop St Iohannes – so weak with fasting and praying that Karl allows him to stay seated – is chosen as speaker. He advises to send a wise man as messenger to the heathens to find out about their real intentions. Ruolant, Olivir and Turpin are refused as messengers by Karl.
Motif References:
P 14.15.1 (Old, wise) Counsellors of court [King’s council]
P 122 (Bm) Archbishop and bishop
V 462 Asceticism
PKRL-1364:
Finally, Genelun (Ruolant’s stepfather and Karl’s brother-in-law) is chosen as messenger on Ruolant’s advice. Genelun turns pale and accuses Ruolant of wanting his death. He announces revenge and feud (three times).
Motif References:
P 263 Brother-in-law
P 281 Stepfather [and stepson]
P 556.0.1 (Bm) Challenge to single combat [feud]
PKRL-1417:
Karl hands Genelun a glove – which Genelun drops (considered as bad omen) – and staff as symbols of the assignment of the task. Genelun falls at Karl’s feet and throws his cloak to the ground, begging Karl to spare him. He cries. He gets a golden seal and a message for Marsilie: Half of Spain shall be his fief if he submits to the emperor’s supremacy and converts to Christianity; the other half of Spain is for Ruolant.
Motif References:
P 14.15.2 Court messenger
P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
Z 150 Other symbols
P 548 Miscellaneous legal customs [problems]
H 939 Other assigners of tasks
H 1180 Miscellaneous tasks
PKRL-1515:
Message to the heathens: If they do not accept the Christians’ offers, Karl will destroy Sarraguz, bring the heathen king to Aachen tied to a donkey and have him beheaded there. Kissing Genelun, Karl dismisses him.
Motif References:
M 500 (Bm) Threats
PKRL-1538:
Genelun and his 700 retainers prepare to leave. Genelun cries. He gets dressed: precious attire with golden embroideries; golden, jeweled collar; sword Mulagir with a large carbuncle (dark at daytime, gleaming at night) in its pommel; gold-knitted fabric (blialt) with gold lace, sable-skin and little bells; golden spurs; a horse with golden saddle is given to him by Karl.
Motif References:
F 820 Extraordinary clothing and ornaments
F 826 Extraordinary jewels
F 833 Extraordinary sword
D 1645.1 Incandescent jewel
PKRL-1636:
Genelun swears “by his beard” that he will take revenge on Ruolant and the twelve peers.
Motif References:
PKRL-1648:
Genelun leaves. He is a remarkably tall man (three ells broad at his shoulders) and also very handsome.
Motif References:
F 533 Remarkably tall man
F 575.2 Handsome man
PKRL-1668:
Genelun releases his retainers, as he does not want them to die with him; they will take care of his son who will become a just ruler and of his beloved wife who inherits everything; he sends a ring to her.
Motif References:
T 59.1 (Bm) Rings as love tokens
P 210 Husband and wife
P 233 Father and son
PKRL-1728:
Genelun’s followers leave, wailing and tearing their hair with grief.
Motif References:
F 1041.21.6 Tearing hair and clothes from excessive grief
PKRL-1750:
On their way, the heathens tell stories and laugh as a pastime. Genelun answers Blanscandiz’ questions concerning Karl’s reason for his military campaign: he explains that the emperor has come on God’s order brought to him by an angel; God also gives him strength.
Motif References:
A 165.2.3 Angels as God’s messengers
Z 200 Heroes
V 235 Mortal visited by angel
H 927.2 Task assigned by angel on God’s order
PKRL-1837:
The second question concerns Ruolant, who joined the negotiation with an apple and his drawn sword in his hands, saying that Karl would make the whole world subject to his reign. Genelun tells Blanscandiz about the peers’ haughtiness, their bloodthirstiness and his desire for revenge; their fall will lead to peace in Spain. Genelun laughs after the agreement is made. (1917)
Motif References:
Z 150 Other symbols
PKRL-1918:
The conspiracy is planned under an olive-tree: Genelun will turn over Ruolant and the peers to the heathens; the peers shall be killed.
Motif References:
K 2211.1 Treacherous brother-in-law
K 2217 Treacherous uncle [stepfather]
K 2370 Miscellaneous deceptions
PKRL-1940:
Genelun gets riches as reward.
Motif References:
Q 111 Riches as reward
P 614 (Bm) Bribes
PKRL-1956:
Genelun’s handsome exterior does not indicate a beautiful soul.
Motif References:
U 119.3 Handsome exterior does not indicate beautiful soul
PKRL-1983:
Genelun and the heathens swear an oath to kill Ruolant and the peers.
Motif References:
M 150 Other vows and oaths
PKRL-1992:
The messengers move on to Marsilie’s camp and deliver Karl’s message, at which Marsilie turns pale, then hot and cold, starts sweating and tries to hit Genelun with his staff, at which Genelun touches his sword and draws it halfway (2063). Marsilies then reads Karl’s letter. He starts crying.
Motif References:
PKRL-2176:
Reconciliation between Marsilie and Genelun (who stands under a pine-tree) after deliberation with twelve of Marsilie’s champions. Genelun gets a precious mantle and gold as presents. Reconciliation is sealed with a kiss. Genelun praises Karl’s good character and explains his eagerness to convert heathens to Christianity.
Motif References:
Z 71.8 Formulistic number: twelve
PKRL-2285:
Genelun explains that Karl can not be killed as he is protected by God and 20,000 guardians – divided in four units, one for each cardinal direction. He considers the strength of Karl’s army.
Motif References:
Z 71.2.1 Formula: north, south, east, west. (The cardinal directions)
Z 200 Heroes
PKRL-2363:
Genelun and the heathens take an oath on a statue of Appolle to kill Ruolant.
Motif References:
M 114 Oath taken on sacred object
M 150 Other vows and oaths
PKRL-2400:
Genelun thus betrays two countries. Conspiracy is called pinrat (council of the pine-tree), as it was made under a pine-tree.
Motif References:
K 2030 Double dealers
PKRL-2415:
A military strategy is worked out: sending of hostages and presents to Karl to induce retreat; warriors will return home, only Ruolant and the pairs will be left behind as governors. They will be ambushed. Karl will die from grief.
Motif References:
K 2369 Military strategy – miscellaneous
PKRL-2477:
Marsilie kisses Genelun’s mouth to confirm their pact of conspiracy.
Motif References:
PKRL-2490:
Genelun gets many precious presents: jeweled cups, furred and jeweled garments, horses, camels, mules, dogs etc.
Motif References:
F 820 Extraordinary clothing and ornaments
PKRL-2517:
Valdebrun, one of the king’s followers, who killed 24.000 men in war with Tielsarke, gives Genelun a sword that even cuts through helmets.
Motif References:
F 628.2 Strong man kills men
F 833.3 Sword extraordinarily bright, sharp
PKRL-2543:
Oliboris gives Genelun a helmet with a clasp of red gold that renders the wearer invulnerable. Brachmunt gives him beautiful jewelry for his wife.
Motif References:
F 824 Extraordinary [part of] armor
D 1101.4 Magic helmet
D 1381.10.3 Magic unpierceable helmet
PKRL-2585:
Military aid arrives on Marsilie’s call (he has letters written to subordinate kings).
Motif References:
P 557.0.3 (Li) Military aid (alliance)
PKRL-2603:
Among the heathen kings is Ilmar of Wlter, whose warriors wear horn-armors.
Motif References:
F 824 Extraordinary [part of] armor
PKRL-2655:
The warriors of the king of Funde have heads resembling dogs’ heads.
Motif References:
F 511 Person unusual as to his head
PKRL-2673:
Only ugly people live in Margariz’ country.
Motif References:
F 707 Extraordinary kingdom
PKRL-2681:
Zernubele rules over an extraordinary country which is cursed: the sun never shines, there is always mist, no grain, only black stones; only woods and moss grow there. The inhabitants live on horse-meat. The devil lives there.
Motif References:
Z 143 Symbolic color: black
G 303.15 Places haunted by the devil
M 474 Curse on land
F 561 People of unusual diet
F 704 Land of cold and mist
F 706 Land of darkness
F 707 Extraordinary kingdom
F 708.2 Country without grain
F 709.6 (Bm) Land of raw flesh [horse-meat] eaters
F 851 Extraordinary food
PKRL-2693:
Zernubele is able to lift the weight seven mules can carry in one hand; his hair has grown down to his feet.
Motif References:
F 555.3 Very long hair
F 610.5.2 Man with strength of ten elephants [12 mules]
PKRL-2705:
Presents and hostages are prepared. Marsilie kisses Genelun on the mouth. Marsilie, overwhelmed with grief for the hostages, covers his head with his cloak. Genelun takes leave from Marsilie.
Motif References:
P 533.1 Hostages
PKRL-2761:
Genelun and twelve heathen messengers leave for Karl’s camp. Genelun first talks to Duke Naimes of Baiern (Bavaria) under an olive-tree, who presents the heathens’ peace-offer to Karl. He accepts it.
Motif References:
PKRL-2847:
Genelun arrives at court. Karl comes to meet him. Genelun’s eyes laugh.
Motif References:
PKRL-2917:
Ruolant is chosen as governor of the Christian half of Spain on Genelun’s cunning advice; Karl has to accept his vassal’s decision which causes much grief to him. He turns pale with fear and grief.
Motif References:
P 19.4 Kingly powers (rights) [obligations]
P 293 Uncle
P 297 Nephew
K 2217 Treacherous uncle [stepfather]
PKRL-2985:
At night, when everyone thinks he is asleep, Karl prays with tears in his eyes. He once committed a capital sin, which was forgiven by God through intersession of St Egidie, who prayed for forgiveness without knowing its real dimension.
Motif References:
V 50 Prayer
Z 200 Heroes
V 229 Saints – miscellaneous
U 230 The nature of sin
PKRL-3020:
Karl has the first of three prophetic dreams: In Porta Cesaris, Genelun tries to take away the shaft he is holding. The shaft splits in two, Genelun’s half flies away and dissolves into the air; the mountains reverberate. After a prayer he has a second dream: In Aachen, a bear breaks the two chains he is fettered with and seriously hurts Karl’s arm.
Motif References:
Z 100 Symbolism
M 302.7 Prophecy through dreams
V 515.2 Allegorical visions – political
D 1812.3.3.5 Prophetic dream allegorical
PKRL-3113:
The following day, Ruolant demands to be enfeoffed with Spain; Karl enfeoffs him under tears. Ruolant is handed a banner and crowned with the Spanish crown. The Christians confirm on oath to Karl to support Ruolant. He climbs a hill with the banner. Twelve pairs and 20,000 warriors decide to stay with him. After a tearful goodbye, Karl and his entourage leave.
Motif References:
P 13.5 Crowning [and making] of kings
P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
Z 150 Other symbols
M 166 Other vows about fighting
W 212 Eagerness for combat
P 548 Miscellaneous legal customs [problems]
PKRL-3279:
Ruolant is armed; clad in precious shining garments, he wears a jeweled golden dragon on his chest.
Motif References:
F 827 Extraordinary ornaments
PKRL-3291:
Ruolant’s helmet Venerant has engraved in its clasp that it is unpierceable and will harm anyone trying to take it away.
Motif References:
Z 201 (Bm) Famous possessions of hero
F 824 Extraordinary [part of] armor
D 1101.4 Magic helmet
D 1381.10.3 Magic unpierceable helmet
PKRL-3301:
Ruolant’s sword Durendart is deadly wherever pointed; it is so sharp that it cuts bones, horn, stone.
Motif References:
Z 201.2 (Bm) Hero’s famous sword
F 833 Extraordinary sword
D 1081 Magic sword
D 1402.7.1 Magic sword kills man
PKRL-3325:
A white banner showing golden animals and birds is attached to Ruolant’s spear.
Motif References:
Z 142 Symbolic color: white
P 550 Military affairs
PKRL-3332:
A cross is attached to Ruolant’s clothes on his back and sides. He climbs a hill and speaks to his warriors. Then he perceives an enormous heathen army; its warriors are richly clad: armors are decorated with gold and jewels.
Motif References:
V 86 Sign of the Cross
F 873.2 Enormous army (camp)[train]
PKRL-3393:
The Christians celebrate mass and confess before attacking the heathens.
Motif References:
V 49 Mass – miscellaneous motifs
PKRL-3465:
The heathens pray to Mahomet before battle; they make music and noise. They erect a platform for their 700 idols and blow 7000 horns for them. 7000 lamps give light.
Motif References:
V 1.11 Worship of idols
Z 71.5 Formulistic number: seven
V 112 Temples
F 773 Remarkable church (chapel, temple)
PKRL-3531:
The heathens’ noise lames birds’ wings and kills them.
Motif References:
F 981 Extraordinary death of animal
PKRL-3540:
The heathen king Alderot (carrying a staff) interprets the Christians’ kneeling during prayer as expression of fear.
Motif References:
J 1738 Ignorance of religious matters
PKRL-3563:
Battle formation of heathen army: division in twelve troops (like Christians); each of the twelve leaders wants to kill Ruolant.
Motif References:
Z 71.8 Formulistic number: twelve
P 552 Battle formations
PKRL-3759:
The heathen king Zernubele is able to lift weight in one hand which only seven mules can carry; he is black and very ugly. He rules over a strange country with wild inhabitants where the sun never shines. Devils live there, the land is cursed.
Motif References:
G 303.15 Places haunted by the devil
M 474 Curse on land
F 527.5 Black man [knight; wild woman]
F 610.5.2 Man with strength of ten elephants [12 mules]
F 706 Land of darkness
F 707 Extraordinary kingdom
PKRL-3813:
Military strategy: twelve troops divide into four parts – Christians will have to split and can easily be overwhelmed.
Motif References:
P 550 Military affairs
PKRL-3845:
Olivir advises Ruolant to blow his horn for military aid, but Ruolant refuses. He lifts his hand saying that he is ready to vow that he will not blow the horn, as he believes that the heathens are already doomed.
Motif References:
J 610 Forethought in conflict with others – general
PKRL-3899:
Turpin encourages the warriors: killing heathens is no sin, but done in God’s service; he promises indulgence as reward.
Motif References:
V 39 Sacrament – miscellaneous motifs
P 122.3 (Bm) Bishop encourages combat and wages battle
PKRL-3961:
Christian battle formation: twelve troops, three leaders (Olivir, Turpin, Ruolant).
Motif References:
Z 71.8 Formulistic number: twelve
P 552 Battle formations
PKRL-3985:
Ruolant’s coat-of-arms is a golden lion.
Motif References:
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols – coat-of-arms
PKRL-4017:
The first battle of Runzeval is furious. “Monsoy” is the Christian war-cry. The Christian and heathen warriors are very strong men. Blood-streams flow, sparks fly from sword-blows. Single combats between commanders of armies take place. At first, the Christians are victorious, though inferior in number. Single combats between commanders of armies. A single heathen survivor returns to Marsilie. Then Marsilie sends military aid. Again, the heathens are defeated. Another single heathen summons military aid; the battle continues, yet again the heathens are defeated.
Motif References:
V 301 (Li) Heathens and Christians
V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
P 551 Army
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
P 557.0.3 (Li) Military aid (alliance)
P 557 Military customs
F 1084.1 Deep streams of blood flow during battle
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]
PKRL-4122:
Ruolant throws his shield on his back and fights on. Heathen corpses pile up around him.
Motif References:
W 32 Bravery
PKRL-4167:
The Christians destroy the golden walls of a heathen temple. Ruolant tells his warriors to ransack it after their final victory.
Motif References:
V 112 Temples
V 356 Christian hero (saint) overthrows heathen idols
F 773 Remarkable church (chapel, temple)
PKRL-4217:
The heathen army commander Falsaron has a golden eagle as coat-of-arms. He is expensively dressed.
Motif References:
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols – coat-of-arms
PKRL-4401:
Turpin also fights courageously.
Motif References:
P 122.3 (Bm) Bishop encourages combat and wages battle
PKRL-4452:
God sends a cool rain shower to strengthen the weakened warriors. They kill many heathens.
Motif References:
V 201 God
N 817.0.1 God as helper
F 960.3 Extraordinary nature phenomena during furious battle
F 962 Extraordinary precipitation (rain, snow, etc.)
PKRL-4679:
The warriors of the heathen King Targis of Tortolose carry a statue of Appollo with them on the battlefield; their prayer for help in battle is ineffective.
Motif References:
V 1.11 Worship of idols
PKRL-4877:
A golden boar is the coat-of-arms of the heathen king Estorgant.
Motif References:
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols – coat-of-arms
PKRL-4979:
The Christian warriors wear the sign of the cross.
Motif References:
V 86 Sign of the Cross
PKRL-5171:
Ruolant is made invulnerable by God.
Motif References:
Z 200 Heroes
PKRL-5185:
The heathens flee from the battlefield.
Motif References:
R 220 Flights
PKRL-5191:
A unique survivor of heathen army returns to Marsilie, who makes him standard-bearer. Military aid is organized.
Motif References:
Z 356 Unique survivor
PKRL-5435:
During a council with his princes, Marsilie swears that desertion will be punished by death.
Motif References:
M 150 Other vows and oaths
PKRL-5490:
The heathen Duke Abysse never laughs.
Motif References:
F 591 Person who never laughs
PKRL-5591:
Turpin kills the heathen Sigelot, who is adored as a god by the heathens.
Motif References:
V 1 Objects of worship
PKRL-5625:
God sends a cool wind to refresh the Christian warriors.
Motif References:
V 201 God
N 817.0.1 God as helper
F 960.3 Extraordinary nature phenomena during furious battle
F 963 Extraordinary behavior of wind
PKRL-5631:
The last surviving heathen, prince Margariz, returns from the battlefield to Marsilie. He is seriously wounded (head split), but still gives an account of the events of the battle. Military reinforcements are organized.
Motif References:
Z 356 Unique survivor
F 1096 Person lives on after being cut through by sword
PKRL-5695:
Marsilie tears his hair with grief.
Motif References:
F 1041.21.6 Tearing hair and clothes from excessive grief
PKRL-5727:
Turpin gives an encouraging speech when he perceives the approaching heathen army: God will help the Christians as he helped the Israelites: The Pharaoh and his army drowned in the sea, the Israelites received manna in the desert.
Motif References:
P 122.3 (Bm) Bishop encourages combat and wages battle
PKRL-5755:
The Christians prepare for battle: mass, absolution, kiss of peace; they fall on their knees turned towards each of the cardinal directions.
Motif References:
V 49 Mass – miscellaneous motifs
Z 71.2.1 Formula: north, south, east, west. (The cardinal directions)
PKRL-5981:
Ruolant cries when realizing the Christian losses; he kills 400 heathens and regrets that he did not blow the horn earlier. Olivir accuses him of being responsible for all the dead warriors.
Motif References:
J 610 Forethought in conflict with others – general
F 628.2 Strong man kills men
PKRL-6053:
On Turpin’s advice – Karl will at least be able to avenge the dead Christians and to bury the corpses -, Ruolant blows his horn so powerfully that his cranium splits. He nearly falls from his horse, his heart misses a beat.
Motif References:
R 187 Horn of Roncevalles. Hero calls aid of waiting soldiers on horn
Z 201 (Bm) Famous possessions of hero
F 1085 Eye bursts forth from overstrain of voice [cranium bursts from blowing horn; body’s internal parts break from blowing horn]
PKRL-6069:
Karl, hearing Ruolant’s horn, tears out his hair; he sweats with fear. Genelun reproaches him for lack of self-control. Karl curses Genelun for betrayal.
Motif References:
F 1041.21.6 Tearing hair and clothes from excessive grief
K 2380 (Hi) Detection of treachery or deceit
PKRL-6114:
Genelun is humiliated and laid in chains, his garments are torn, his hair is tousled. He is bound to a packhorse and brought before Marsilie. The imperial army returns.
Motif References:
Q 236 Punishment for deceiving (divine) emperor
Q 261 Treachery punished
Q 434 Punishment: fettering
Q 470 Humiliating punishments
Q 473.5 Punishment: sending out of town on donkeys [donkey-ride]
Q 488 Cutting [tousling] hair as punishment
PKRL-6232:
The heathens who are killed by Ruolant decay immediately. Ruolant seriously wounds Marsilie (he cuts off his right arm).
Motif References:
Q 550.1 Supernatural manifestations at death of wicked person
E 800 The Corpse
F 1099 Additional marvels
PKRL-6372:
Algarich seriously wounds Olivir, who fights on nevertheless until he is blinded with pain. Ruolant cries and nearly falls from his horse with grief for his friend, wrings his hands, but then returns into battle.
Motif References:
W 33.1 Badly wounded warrior continues fighting
PKRL-6466:
Olivir tries to help Ruolant and Turpin, but, blind with pain, unwittingly attacks Ruolant. He recognizes his friend only by his voice.
Motif References:
H 79.3 Recognition by voice
P 314 Combat of disguised [unrecognized] friends. [Unwitting attack on friend]
N 767.1 (Bm) Unwitting combat between friends. [Unwitting attack on friend]
PKRL-6489:
Olivir leaves the battlefield and prays for redemption, for Karl and his warriors, lying with arms extended in the form of a cross.
Motif References:
V 50 Prayer
PKRL-6519:
At the moment of Olivir’s death, his heart breaks and he glows like fire.
Motif References:
Q 147 Supernatural manifestations at death of pious person
Z 292 Death of hero [heroine]
V 520 Salvation
E 820 Phenomena emanating from corpse
F 1099 Additional marvels
PKRL-6581:
Only Walther, Ruolant and Turpin are left; they fight in the name of the Holy Trinity. Walther is killed.
Motif References:
Z 71.1 Formulistic number: three
PKRL-6641:
Turpin fights on though he is seriously wounded.
Motif References:
W 33.1 Badly wounded warrior continues fighting
PKRL-6646:
St Egidie has the battle’s events written down at Leun on Karl’s request.
Motif References:
V 229 Saints – miscellaneous
PKRL-6673:
Ruolant blows Olivant again. The imperial army returns.
Motif References:
R 187 Horn of Roncevalles. Hero calls aid of waiting soldiers on horn
PKRL-6721:
The heathens, realizing the arrival of the Christian army, flee.
Motif References:
R 220 Flights
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
PKRL-6731:
Ruolant gathers the corpses of the peers to bury them. He faints with grief and pain when he perceives the mortally wounded Turpin.
Motif References:
PKRL-6759:
Turpin dies. His soul is removed by angels and brought before God, to the martyr’s choir. God says: “Procede et regna!”
Motif References:
Q 147 Supernatural manifestations at death of pious person
Q 172 Reward: admission to heaven
V 201 God
V 249 Angels – miscellaneous motifs
Z 292 Death of hero [heroine]
V 520 Salvation
E 722.2.10 Soul taken away by God (angel)
E 754.2.2 Souls carried to heaven by angels
PKRL-6771:
Ruolant – the army’s unique survivor – leaves the battlefield and sits down under a tree, between four marbles, clutching Durendart and Olivant. A heathen waits for his death; he wants to take sword and horn in order to boast of having killed the hero. He smears himself with blood to give the impression of being badly wounded. Ruolant kills him with Olivant, which splits.
Motif References:
Z 356 Unique survivor
K 1821 Disguise by changing bodily appearance
PKRL-6805:
Ruolant tries to smash Durendart on the stones because he does not want it to get into heathen hands. Durendart is indestructible. Ruolant talks to it and reveals its story: It is deadly wherever aimed; many countries and people were defeated with it. It is a unique sword which was brought by an angel to Karl on the battlefield of Moriana with the order to pass it on to Ruolant (to take care of widows and orphans). Various sacred relics are enclosed in it.
Motif References:
V 140 Sacred relics
Z 201.2 (Bm) Hero’s famous sword
V 232.7 Gifts from angels
D 812.10 Magic object received from angel
F 833 Extraordinary sword
F 997.1 Sword is spoken to as human being
D 1081 Magic sword
D 1296 Sacred relic[s] as [part of] magic object
D 1402.7.1 Magic sword kills man
PKRL-6889:
Ruolant takes off his glove to hand it over to God, who is considered his ruler; the glove is taken by an angel. He prays with arms extended so as to form a cross, for salvation, for Karl and the Francs.
Motif References:
V 50 Prayer
Z 150 Other symbols
V 201 God
V 249 Angels – miscellaneous motifs
PKRL-6924:
At the moment of Ruolant’s death, a gleaming light appears in the sky; the earth quakes, heavenly signs appear, storms tear out trees, thunder and lightning, the sun does not shine anymore. The heathens faint, their ships sink, they drown; buildings break down, stars appear prematurely in the sky.
Motif References:
Q 147 Supernatural manifestations at death of pious person
Z 292 Death of hero [heroine]
F 930.2 Waters rise to drown wrongdoer
F 960.2.4 Great light appears on night [day] of holy [pious] man’s death
F 960.2.5 Earthquake at death of important person
F 960.2 Extraordinary nature phenomena at death of holy [pious] person (hero)
F 961.1 Extraordinary behavior of sun
F 961.2 Extraordinary behavior of stars
F 963 Extraordinary behavior of wind
F 965.2 Sun darkened at death of holy [pious] person
F 968 Extraordinary thunder and lightning
F 969.3 Marvelous light
F 969.4 Extraordinary earthquake
PKRL-6950:
Karl and his army arrive on the battlefield. When finding the dead Christian warriors, the emperor tears out his beard, beats his breast, laments loudly. The Christians decide to pursue fleeing heathens.
Motif References:
P 557.0.3 (Li) Military aid (alliance)
F 1041.21.6 Tearing hair and clothes from excessive grief
F 1041.21 Reactions to excessive grief
PKRL-6990:
Karl prays for light during his pursuit. The angel answers his prayer, telling him not to despair: Karl was destined a hero in his mother’s womb. He shall not be afraid but defeat his enemy with the angel’s help. A miracle occurs: the sun shines brightly in the night.
Motif References:
V 50 Prayer
N 121 Fate decided before birth
A 182.3 God (angel) speaks to mortal
V 201 God
V 243 Angel answers mortal’s prayer
Z 254 Destined hero
M 301.10 Angels as prophets
N 817.0.1 God as helper
H 927.2 Task assigned by angel on God’s order
F 960.3 Extraordinary nature phenomena during furious battle
F 961.1.5.3.1 Sunset delayed many hours
PKRL-7040:
The heathens flee to their ships which were destroyed by rising waters. They flee into the water and drown.
Motif References:
R 220 Flights
PKRL-7070:
At night, God reveals the future to Karl in a third allegorical dream: the sky is open, raining fire. People scream, storms and thunder destroy people’s shields; lions, bears and leopards tear away people’s armor, griffins and snakes torment them. A strong lion wants to attack Karl, who kills him with one blow. Bears demand their dead in human voice. A strange animal tries to attack Karl, but is killed by a dog.
Motif References:
Z 71.1 Formulistic number: three
Z 100 Symbolism
M 302.7 Prophecy through dreams
V 515.2 Allegorical visions – political
D 1812.3.3.5 Prophetic dream allegorical
PKRL-7128:
In the meantime, Marsilie has fled to Sarraguz. The heathens destroy their idols as they did not help in battle.
Motif References:
V 123 Image blamed by suppliant for misfortunes
V 381 Heathen beats his god because of misfortune
PKRL-7148:
Marsilie learns that his seigneur, King Paligan of Persia, whose help he has asked for in letters, has arrived with 42 subordinate kings.
Motif References:
P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
P 557.0.3 (Li) Military aid (alliance)
PKRL-7194:
During a council, Paligan asks his vassals to support Marsilie, whose letter he has read; they swear loyalty.
Motif References:
M 166 Other vows about fighting
P 557.0.1 (Li) Council of war
PKRL-7239:
Paligan sends two messengers to Marsilie to hand him a glove (as symbol of his arrival and support). In Sarraguz, Paligan’s messengers are confronted with people’s misery because of their defeat. Messengers announce the arrival of military aid, but neither Brechmunda nor Marsilie can be cheered up. The messengers return to Paligan, who has an army prepared for the battle against Karl’s weak warriors.
Motif References:
P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
Z 150 Other symbols
P 548 Miscellaneous legal customs [problems]
PKRL-7379:
Brechmunda falls at Paligan’s feet and tells him her sorrows; he comforts her, taking her under his coat, promising revenge for the Christians’ misdeeds. Then they join the dying Marsilie. Paligan cries when leaving him and kisses Brechmunda goodbye. He leaves for battle.
Motif References:
Z 150 Other symbols
PKRL-7443:
Karl is woken up by an angel. He cries, takes off his armor and prays with arms extended so as to form a cross. Then he tells his warriors about his prophetic dream.
Motif References:
PKRL-7473:
An angel brings a cross to Karl on God’s order. This cross is still in Aachen, many relics are enclosed in it.
Motif References:
V 140 Sacred relics
V 232.7.1 Angel brings cross as gift to saint [pious man]
PKRL-7485:
The Christian army proceeds to the battlefield. Karl mourns for Ruolant. Everyone cries for the dead tearing out their hair with grief.
Motif References:
F 1041.21.6 Tearing hair and clothes from excessive grief
PKRL-7531:
Karl cries tears of blood, holding Ruolant’s corpse in his arms. He prays three times for salvation of his warriors. The stone he sits on is still wet with his blood-tears. Many of his followers faint with grief. The princes beg him to stay courageous and an example for the people.
Motif References:
V 50 Prayer
Z 71.1 Formulistic number: three
F 809 Other extraordinary stones
F 1041.21.7 Swooning from grief
F 1041.21.1.1 Tears of blood from excessive grief
PKRL-7579:
The corpses of Christian warriors are gathered and buried in a large grave with incense and herbs. Their entrails are taken out and buried separately, the bodies are sewn up in stags’ skins. Miracles occur at the grave. Turpin, Olivir and Ruolant are wrapped in silk clothes, embalmed and laid out to be transported to France.
Motif References:
V 69 Funeral rites – miscellaneous
V 69.1 All dead are buried after battle
V 113.0.1 Miracles at shrine [heroes’ grave]
V 153 (Hi) Heroes’ grave
Z 292.1 (Bm) Hero’s corpse embalmed
P 683 (Bm) Embalming
PKRL-7623:
Two of Paligan’s messengers demand submission and payment of tribute from Karl. Karl strokes his beard with annoyance and declares war. The Christians prepare for battle: they arm themselves and take communion.
Motif References:
PKRL-7765:
Karl hands Olivant and Durendart to Wineman and Rapoto.
Motif References:
Z 201 (Bm) Famous possessions of hero
Z 201.2 (Bm) Hero’s famous sword
PKRL-7779:
Battle formations are arranged.
Motif References:
P 552 Battle formations
PKRL-7895:
The Christian banner shows Christ in golden, flaming wreath, St Peter at his feet.
Motif References:
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols – coat-of-arms
P 550 Military affairs
PKRL-7903:
The Christians pray for victory, facing each of the cardinal directions. Karl begs God to help them as he helped Jonah, who was saved from the whale on the third day, three youths in fiery furnace, the king of Ninive, St Peter, who denied thrice and was saved from drowning, St Johann, who was made immune to poison and fire.
Motif References:
V 50 Prayer
Z 71.2.1 Formula: north, south, east, west. (The cardinal directions)
PKRL-7935:
The Christians blow their horns; when hearing the sound of the horn Olivant, they cry. Sign of identification of Christian warriors: beard pulled out of armor.
Motif References:
P 551 Army
PKRL-7947:
In the meantime, a Syrian spy reports the Christians’ eagerness for combat to Paligan; he has spent some time in the Christian army camp, behaving and praying like a Christian.
Motif References:
P 557.0.2 (Li) Spy. Messenger
K 1835 Disguise for spying
K 2357.0.1 Disguise to spy on enemy
PKRL-7985:
Paligan prepares for battle. The name of his sword is the heathen war-cry: “Preciosa”.
Motif References:
Z 201.2 (Bm) Hero’s famous sword
P 557 Military customs
PKRL-8017:
Paligan gives over the reign to his son Malprimes on the battlefield.
Motif References:
P 17.0.2 Son succeeds father as king
PKRL-8031:
The battle formation of heathen army is organized.
Motif References:
P 552 Battle formations
PKRL-8043:
Among the warriors are the people of Meres, who have hog’s bristles on their backs.
Motif References:
F 521.1 Man covered with hair like animal
F 555 Remarkable hair
PKRL-8114:
Paligan swears an oath to punish any desertion; he has his banner raised, showing a dragon embroidered with jewels and gold.
Motif References:
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols – coat-of-arms
M 150 Other vows and oaths
P 550 Military affairs
PKRL-8129:
The heathens pray to their three idols for victory.
Motif References:
V 1.11 Worship of idols
Z 71.1 Formulistic number: three
PKRL-8164:
The battle between Karl’s and Paligan’s armies begins, the Christian war-cry is “Monsoy”, the heathen’s war-cry: “Preciosa”. Both armies have many strong men in them. A furious battle begins during which streams of blood flow.
Motif References:
V 301 (Li) Heathens and Christians
V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
P 551 Army
P 557 Military customs
F 1084.1 Deep streams of blood flow during battle
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]
PKRL-8403:
Paligan sends military aid after one heathen reports great losses of his army.
Motif References:
P 557.0.3 (Li) Military aid (alliance)
PKRL-8416:
Karl, perceiving the heathen army, prays to God for help and a belated sunset.
Motif References:
V 50 Prayer
PKRL-8436:
Single combat between Paligan and Karl, during which each of them tries to convert the other to his faith. When Paligan cuts off Karl’s helmet, he also cuts off some of his hair. When the fight reaches its climax, the emperor becomes weak.
Motif References:
V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
PKRL-8542:
A voice from heaven encourages Karl by prophesying that Paligan and the heathens are already doomed and will be defeated with God’s help. Karl grows stronger and cuts off Paligan’s head.
Motif References:
M 323 Prophecy: victory against great odds
V 550 (Bm) Voice from heaven
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
N 819.7 (Bm) Voice from heaven encourages hero
F 966 Voices from heaven (or from the air)
PKRL-8563:
Miracle: God sends light, the Christians do not feel the heat anymore.
Motif References:
V 201 God
N 817.0.1 God as helper
F 960.3 Extraordinary nature phenomena during furious battle
F 969.3 Marvelous light
PKRL-8570:
The heathens flee, but many are killed by Christians; the blood-streams redden the waters of the river Saibere.
Motif References:
R 220 Flights
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
PKRL-8595:
When Marsilie learns about the defeat, he dies from grief.
Motif References:
F 1041.1.3 Death from sorrow or chagrin
PKRL-8617:
Brechmunda surrenders Sarraguz to Karl. She and her people convert to Christianity and are baptized. She donates a bishopric. When Karl and his warriors mourn for their dead, Brechmunda reproaches them with their excessive grief and lack of self-control, since the dead are in heaven now.
Motif References:
R 75.1 Defeated surrender their city
V 110 Religious buildings [and institutions]
V 331 Conversion to Christianity
V 332 Baptism of heathen
PKRL-8662:
The dead are buried, three coffins are brought to St Romane, where the relics are still a famous place of pilgrimage.
Motif References:
V 69.1 All dead are buried after battle
Z 71.1 Formulistic number: three
V 140 Sacred relics
V 153 (Hi) Heroes’ grave
Z 200 Heroes
PKRL-8673:
Court is held at Aachen. Alda, Olivir’s sister and Ruolant’s fiancée, refuses to get married to Karl’s son Ludewige, she prays for death on hearing of Ruolant’s death. Her prayer is answered: She dies and is buried in a nunnery nearby.
Motif References:
V 50 Prayer
V 59 Prayers answered – miscellaneous
T 81.7 Woman dies on hearing of lover’s or husband’s death
F 1041.1.2.2 Woman dies on hearing of her husband’s [lover’s, fiancé’s] death
PKRL-8729:
Genelun is brought before the law court in fetters. The Francs try to avoid the death-sentence, as his guilt is not proved yet and as Genelun is of noble birth. Genelun justifies his deed referring to the declaration of a feud. Karl gets furious, holds his beard in his fist.
Motif References:
P 510 Law courts
PKRL-8785:
Binabel, one of Genelun’s kin, a tall and strong man, proposes an ordeal (single combat) to prove Genelun’s innocence. Tirrich, a relative of Ruolant, a small, not very strong man, represents Karl’s side. He repeats the accusation and is convinced to win with God’s help, like David defeated Goliath.
Motif References:
P 556.0.1 (Bm) Challenge to single combat [feud]
PKRL-8859:
Thirty hostages are appointed on each side as legal surety to die with the defeated.
Motif References:
P 524 Legal security
PKRL-8881:
Karl prays for Tirrich’s victory and orders his followers to pray as well.
Motif References:
V 50 Prayer
PKRL-8897:
Judicial combat takes place in a circle.
Motif References:
P 557.4 Customs concerning single combat
PKRL-8909:
Furious single combat between Binabel and Tirrich, during which Binabel offers surrender if Tirrich lets Genelun live, which Tirrich refuses.
Motif References:
H 218 Trial by combat
P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
PKRL-8979:
Tirrich finally defeats Binabel, cuts off his head, impales it on a lance and brings it before Karl.
Motif References:
L 311 Weak (small) [young] hero overcomes large fighter
P 555.2.1.1 “Publication of slaying”. Heads of slain enemies displayed
PKRL-9007:
The hostages on Binabel’s side are beheaded.
Motif References:
R 51.4 Prisoner[s] [hostages, messengers] massacred [killed]
P 524 Legal security
PKRL-9009:
Genelun is dragged to death by wild horses.
Motif References:
S 117 Death by dragging behind horse
Q 236 Punishment for deceiving (divine) emperor
Q 261 Treachery punished
Q 416.2 Punishment: dragging to death by a horse [by horses]
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