The Death of Roland at Roncesvalles
Ambushed at Roncesvalles, Roland fights until all his companions are dead. Too proud to blow his horn for help until too late, he finally sounds the Olifant so hard his temples burst. Dying, he tries to destroy his sword Durandana so it won't fall to enemies. Charlemagne arrives to find Roland dead, facing the enemy. Roland's betrothed Aude dies of grief upon hearing the news.
The Text
What You'll Learn
Comprehension
Describes the ambush at Roncesvalles where the rearguard was trapped
Cause & Consequence
Explains how Roland's pride caused the delay that doomed the rearguard
Meaning
Takes a position on whether Roland's pride was a fatal flaw or noble stubbornness
Evidence
Cites a specific passage (the horn, Durandana, Roland's death)
Defense
Maintains or thoughtfully revises their position under challenge
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