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5 out of 5 stars
By
D. B. Mann
on
02-22-12
The Song of Roland
Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?
Most definitely
What did you like best about this story?
As a French professor, I am very familiar with this epic poem in the original old French and the modern French translation. With its additional dramatic effects, this was an excellent way to introduce my son to the story.
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1 of 1 people found this review helpful
5 out of 5 stars
By
Paul
on
06-14-11
Surprisingly Excellent!
I am not a medieval scholar so I cannot comment on the translation of this epic poem, but its quality and style are superb. I have been dabbling and downloading medieval literature lately and found most of it to be rather dull. I do not doubt that I would have found the Song of Roland to be as equally dry if it had not been presented in such a lively dramatic manner. (In fact in the introduction they say that this song was originally chanted in such a way that it would mesmerize or hypnotize the audience).
Fortunately this audiobook is not read in monotone, or chanting verse. The poem is read, word for word, but different actors read the lines of the various characters, and sound effects are added to enliven the action. I was surprised and delighted by how much I enjoyed this audiobook, and would recommend it for anyone interested in Medieval Classics.
Additional note: As a side thought, it was interesting to see how similar Roland was to the character of Boromir in The Lord of the Rings. Both characters fell because of their pride, and both redeemed themselves with their last breathe by blowing on a horn to call for help.
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1 of 1 people found this review helpful