The Song of Cid

Chansons de Geste, or "songs of great deeds," were vernacular epics that had become popular among the French nobility in the 11th and 12th century.  These heroic poems were sung by minstrels in great halls.  The heroes in these poems fight great battles, serve their lord, and follow a code of honor.  Chansons de Geste illuminate Middle Age societal views on knightly behavior and lord-vassal relationships.

The qualities found in Chansons de Geste can also be found in the epic poetry from many countries.  The oldest preserved Castilian poem, the Song of El Cid, tells the fictionalized story the 11th century knight Rodrigo Diaz, who conquered much of Islamic Spain and changed his name to El Cid.  In the story, El Cid is exiled by his lord, King Alfonso, yet continues to act as a good vassal, sending Alfonso spoils of war and humbling himself through messengers until King Alfonso welcomes him back.  He is also the perfect lord; El Cid is generous and respectful to his followers by listening to their advice and giving them the chance to gain honor and glory though fighting and service. El Cid is the representation of both the ideal lord and vassal.


Sources:

Bennett, Judith M. Medieval Europe: A Short History. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2011. Print.

Nelson, Lynn Henry. "The Song of El Cid| Lectures in Medieval History." The Song of El Cid| Lectures in Medieval History. N.p., n.d. Web. 08 Oct. 2016. <http://www.vlib.us/medieval/lectures/el_cid.html>.