Introduction
A thorough and careful analysis of the heroic poem thoroughly demonstrates a relatively deep, close, and stable correlation between Christian soldiers and early Christian ideals in terms of leading a righteous lifestyle, serving God, and having faith in the kingdom of heaven.
Discussion
It should be recalled that forgiveness, reconciliation, love, care, pacifism, the sanctity of life, as well as belief in the salvation of the soul and afterlife are the essential concepts of early Christianity. In contrast, the ideological concept of the poem is associated with the manifestation of valor, honor, selflessness, love for the motherland, and respect for the ruler in the context of the confrontation between Christianity and Islam. Despite prayers, religious appeals, and the emphasis on divine protection, the soldiers allow the denigration of Muslims and the manifestation of madness, cruelty, violence, and thirst for revenge. Charles acts as a “perfect soldier,” showing unshakable and “divine” firmness: “If any Charles with contradiction meet […] Then hanged or burned or slaughtered shall he be.” (Sayers, 1957). In this case, this moment can be considered a violation of early Christian ideals.
Nevertheless, the motives of the Sermon on the Mount are especially noticeable in the thoughts of the soldiers closer to the finale. The phenomenon of following the principles of righteousness and justice outlined in the Sermon on the Mount is most clearly revealed in the behavior of knights before death.
Conclusion
Thus, Olivier raises a prayer to the sky, combining several of the knight’s central values: “clasps his two hands, heavenwards holds them out, prays God himself in Paradise to allow […]” (Sayers, 1957). Before his death, Roland turns to God and asks for forgiveness, presenting himself as a loyal vassal who defended his fatherland: “God, I confess my sins before your might. Forgive me for the faults both great and small” (Sayers, 1957). Therefore, the main characters understand and accept the principles of Christian morality, appealing to God and praying for the soul’s salvation.
Reference
Sayers, D. L. (1957). The song of Roland. Penguin Books.