In the Song of Roland, there are two major characters - Roland and Oliver. In this epic, Roland is portrayed as the hero. He is a Christian fighting against the pagans; he is brave, generous, loyal and affectionate. These characteristics, defined Roland as the hero. Oliver, the companion of Roland, displays the traditional characteristics of a hero's friend. He is wise, brave and loyal. Oliver is concerned with military necessities rather than his own prestige.

"Roland is fierce and Oliver is wise and both for valor may bear away the prize." So who is the real hero in The Song of Roland? In the eyes of most, Roland is the hero. He is strong, brave and ready to fight for the cause of Christianity. Yet Oliver also displays many of these traits but he does not hold the same esteem in the eyes of the people. Oliver however...