Roland and Oliver are the main BFFs here. Their friendship is deep, based on mutual respect but complicated by the authority Roland holds over Oliver by virtue of his superior social and military position. For Oliver friendship means speaking his mind and arguing for his own opinions, even when Roland disagrees. But he also knows when to stop pushing. For him friendship also has to mean knowing when to fall into line, while still disagreeing. Roland doesn't seem as concerned with friendship as he is with duty to God and country, but when he sees Oliver dying and the rest of his slain men, he's suddenly filled with sorrow for these wonderful friends he's now lost.
Most relationships in the Song of Roland are based on more formal, unequal ties like feudal service. But there areother examples of friendship blossoming in unlikely places: between Ganelon and Blancandrin, and between Charlemagne and Roland.
Questions About Friendship
- Charlemagne calls Roland his friend once he's dead, but did the live Roland consider Charlemagne a friend?
- Why does Oliver give in to Roland over the oliphant?
- Who is sadder: Roland over Oliver's death or Charlemagne over Roland's death? Why?
Chew on This
In the Song of Roland true friendship can only exist where there is no authority.
Oliver betrays his friendship with Roland when he gives in on the oliphant.