Epic Poetry

The Song of the Saxons, written 400 years after the historical events and 100 years after the Song of Roland, features a nuanced view of the Wendish Crusades and kingship. The epic showcases the struggles of Charlemagne's empire, its expansion, and his struggles in maintaining it. The central narrative is almost a replica of the Song of Roland but set in the north. Baudouin, Charlemagne's nephew, and his lover, the Saxon queen Sébile, emerge as the story's heroes. Unlike the Song of Roland, Charlemagne's portrayal in the Song of the Saxons is less divine and more human, revealing his challenges and mistakes in handling his empire and troops. Baudouin repeatedly disobeys Charlemagne, adding a layer of internal conflict. Despite this, he wins Sébile's heart and is rewarded with the conquered Muslim lands, symbolically creating a Crusader kingdom in Saxony. The Song of the Saxons raises questions about the legitimacy of kingship, internal conflict, disillusionment, empire, skepticism, and war. The chapter includes an English summary of each laisse of the epic poem.