Christian Living According to Two Medieval Literatures

In both the Song of Roland and the Little Flowers of St. Francis, we find a few thoughts about the typical way of Christian living.  Both agree that the person in charge is God, although, the Little Flowers, also thinks of St. Francis as almost an equal to God, after Francis’ own death.  Therefore, a typical Christian should realize that the Person in charge is God and he or she should live their Christian lives for God and God alone.

The Song of Roland

The Song of Roland, a poem written around the 13th century, is very inconsistent.  Let’s say that you decide to listen to it as an audiobook, instead of reading it yourself.  Will it be easier for you to find the inconsistent parts of the poem?  Or will it be harder for you?  I think it would most likely be harder for you.

Roland and Oliver

Roland and Oliver in the poem, Song of Roland, were friends and companions in the war of the French and Muslims.  During one of the battles, Oliver, Roland, and 2,000 Franks are left behind to fight the Muslims attacking them.  Oliver suggested to Roland to blow the rescue horn to save Roland, the Franks, and himself. However, Roland thinks this suggestion is crazy and says that it would make him look like a fool to all of France.