chanson de geste, which were "long epic poems indigenous to northern France that portrayed deeds of heroism" among the powerful nobles. The poems were "written for the entertainment of the French feudal nobility" and "the result is an idealized picture of feudal life" (Cantor 346-347). Cantor adds that in the typical chanson de geste, "The emperor-king is at best distant and at worst appears as weak and crooked" (Cantor 347). In Roland, however, it is to the good and brave King Charlemagne whom Roland the hero proclaims and practices his loyalty, and the King plays a crucial role in the victory over the Spanish pagans after Roland is slain. However, Roland does postpone summoning Charlemagne and the king's troops during the poem's most crucial battle until it is too late and Roland is doomed. In any case, Roland remains the center and hero of the poem, even after his death. Charlemagne fights above all for the courageous and loyal memory of the fallen Roland: "True Father, . . . grant me, in Thy mercy, if it please Thee,/ the pow
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