How we cite our quotes: (Stanza.Line)
Quote #1
"Lead the army you have summoned to Saragossa,
Lay siege to the city, put all your heart into it,
And avenge those the villain had killed!" (14.211-13)
Roland doesn't believe Blancandrin's promises, but the real reason he wants to continue fighting in Spain is revenge—not just general revenge, as in, You are a wicked pagan and I will take revenge on you, but a specific revenge relating to two high-rankin' Franks. The way Roland tells it, these Franks were killed while on a diplomatic mission to Saragossa. Now it's time to kill some Saracens.
Quote #2
"If God wills that I should return from there,
I'll take such great vengeance on you
That it will last you all your life." (20.289-91)
This is the ever-pleasant Ganelon, publicly announcing vengeance on Roland for nominating him as envoy to King Marsile. But what's up here? Is Ganelon seriously ticked that he's going to talk to Marsile? Based on the experiences of the two Franks Roland mentions (i.e. death), that seems a reasonable reaction. On the other hand, is it possible Ganelon is already revolving thoughts of revenge against Roland? Plus, his trip down south turned out pretty well. As usual, it's hard to tell with this guy.
Quote #3
"Charlemagne left you in the pass, that's his misfortune!
He did us wrong, it's not right that he should boast about it,
For on you alone I have taken ample revenge for all our losses." (145.1949-51)
The attack on the rearguard may be Ganelon's personal revenge against Roland, but it's also a chance for the Saracens to avenge the seven years of war they've endured during Charlemagne's campaign. Because Roland is so beloved and important to Charlemagne, they can accomplish their revenge just by doing him to death.