- The clamor of 100,000 mounted Saracens on the march soon reaches Roland's rearguard. Roland welcomes the opportunity to serve God by killing so many wicked pagans.
- Oliver climbs a hill to scope out the situation. When he sees how many Saracens are coming their way, he immediately recognizes Ganelon's treachery against both Charlemagne and Roland. He warns the Franks that there will be a fight (and how), and asks Roland to blow his ivory horn, the oliphant, loud enough to reach Charlemagne and warn him of their danger.
- Roland does not appreciate this advice and says he will be dishonored if he doesn't stand his ground and lop off some pagan heads. It is his duty to France and to God.
- Oliver begs Roland to reconsider across several stanzas, arguing that Roland is blinded by his pride, that too many Franks will be sacrificed, and that no one would consider it a dishonor to ask for aid against such an enormous enemy.
- But Roland is stubborn. He refuses to be a coward.
- Archbishop Turpin rallies to Roland's side and preaches a mini-sermon to the Franks. Since he knows a complete Frankish massacre is likely, he absolves them of sin and promises that if they die as martyrs they can look forward to the best heaven has to offer.
- Sin-free and ready to fight some holy war, the Franks arm themselves for the coming pagans. Roland agrees with Oliver that Ganelon betrayed them into this mess but is determined to solve everything with his sword and faith. He keys up the troops by saying the pagans are the ones who are going to be owned.
- Oliver is a little more rational about the risks. Annoyed, he reminds Roland once more that since he did not send an SOS with the oliphant, it won't be Charlemagne's fault if they all die. The best they can do is fight fiercely to the end.
- The Franks, yelling their battle-cry "Montjoie!," prepare to destroy the Saracens.