How we cite our quotes: (Stanza.Line)
Quote #7
I recognize full well that I owe you a reward for this,
Redeemable with my body, my lands, and my wealth.
Avenge your sons, your brothers, and your heirs,
Who died last night at Roncevaux!" (246.3409-12)
Understandably, Charlemagne's army is not stoked to confront a kajillion Saracens, so Charlemagne tries to lift their spirits by (1) promising them rewards at home and (2) reminding them that among the dead at Roncevaux are their best buds—their families and friends. And what can you do when Saracens massacre your homies? You take revenge!
Quote #8
"I issued a formal challenge to that fighter Roland,
To Oliver and to all their companions;
Charles and his noble knights heard it.
I avenged myself, but there is no treason here." (273.3775-78)
Ganelon is attempting a tricky defense here. He is claiming that his actions were only a matter of private revenge rather than political and religious treason. It's hard to know if Ganelon truly believes this. Even if he does, it's hard to argue that arranging the obliteration of tens of thousands of Franks constitutes private revenge.
Quote #9
Having wreaked his vengeance, the Emperor
Called his bishops from France. (290.3975-76)
Once Charlemagne's revenge against the Saracens is exhausted, conversion begins. Although it isn't violent (usually), is it possible that converting these pagans to the Christian faith is actually the ultimate revenge the Franks can take? Why destroy a pagan life when you can destroy his soul?