Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Death of Count Roland" by Robert Lowell is a retelling of the legendary death of Count Roland, a hero from the "Chanson de Roland", one of the oldest surviving major works of French literature. The poem captures the somber and heroic essence of Roland's demise, embedding it in the larger context of the Franco-Moorish War and highlighting the conflict's futility and tragedy.

The poem opens with a depiction of King Marsilius of Saragossa, the antagonist who does not "love God." This statement sets a moral and religious contrast between the Christian Franks, led by Charlemagne, and the Muslim Saracens, led by Marsilius. The king's lack of love for God is depicted as leading to the war, which serves as a broader reflection on the religious and cultural conflicts that have long shaped history. Marsilius is described sitting in the shade of an orchard, on a "bench of blue tile," surrounded by "more than twenty thousand men," an image that conveys both his regal authority and the martial might at his disposal. The reference to his "speech" being "only the one all kings must make" implies the inevitability and predictability of the rhetoric that often justifies war, hinting at a cynical view of political power.

As the poem transitions to the end of the war, the focus shifts to Roland, a paladin and the poem's tragic hero. The line "Roland's brains seeped from his ears" graphically conveys the mortal wound that Roland suffers in battle. This vivid and stark imagery emphasizes the brutality of war and the physical toll it exacts on its participants. Despite his grievous injuries, Roland calls for the "Angel Michael," a divine figure who, in medieval tradition, is often associated with protecting warriors and guiding souls to the afterlife. Roland also calls for his "ivory horn," Oliphant, a symbol of his role as a warrior and leader, and prays for his "peers," reflecting his loyalty and sense of duty to his comrades.

The poem then describes Roland's actions with his sword, Durendal, which he uses to "scythe" away at his enemies. This symbolic act demonstrates Roland's determination to continue fighting and protecting his cause, even in his final moments. The description of Roland retreating to a "grassy place" and climbing a "little mound" suggests a moment of seeking solace and a final resting place, away from the chaos of battle. The setting includes a "beautiful tree" and "four great stones of marble on the green grass," elements that evoke a sense of peace and dignity amidst the violence, providing a poignant contrast to the earlier descriptions of warfare.

The final image of Roland "fallen back, has fainted" encapsulates his tragic end. It conveys the exhaustion and ultimate surrender to death after a valiant struggle. This scene is imbued with a sense of honor and respect for Roland's bravery and sacrifice, aligning with the epic tradition of honoring fallen heroes.

"Death of Count Roland" by Robert Lowell is a meditation on the heroism and tragedy inherent in war. Through the portrayal of Roland's final moments, the poem reflects on the nobility and futility of martial valor. Lowell's retelling captures the solemnity and grandeur of the original epic, while also imparting a modern sensibility that questions the glorification of war and the cost of human life. The poem serves as a timeless reminder of the complexities of conflict and the enduring legacy of those who fight for their beliefs.

Copyright (c) 2025 PoetryExplorer

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...