Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
Ogier, the Dane explained
Ogier, son of Geoffroy, the first Christian king of Denmark, is blessed at birth by six fairy ladies, including Morgana, who grants him invincibility and a visit to Avalon.
What happens
Ogier, son of Geoffroy, the first Christian king of Denmark, is blessed at birth by six fairy ladies, including Morgana, who grants him invincibility and a visit to Avalon. He is given as a hostage to Charlemagne after his father refuses homage. Ogier grows up at court, but after his father's renewed defiance, Charlemagne spares him at Duke Namo's request. When Saracens threaten Rome, Charlemagne marches to Italy. Ogier rescues Charlemagne in battle, but later is captured by the exiled King Dannemont. Carahue, a Saracen king, surrenders himself to Charlemagne to atone for Ogier's capture. Ogier is eventually freed, knighted by Charlemagne, and receives the magical sword Cortana from Morgana. Charlot, the emperor's son, grows jealous and plots treason against Ogier.
Themes in this chapter
Heroism and the Quest
Ogier's journey from hostage to knight, his rescue of Charlemagne, and his acceptance of challenges embody the heroic quest.
Jealousy and Revenge
Charlot's jealousy of Ogier leads to treacherous ambush and ongoing conflict.
Fate and Free Will
The fairy blessings at Ogier's birth predestine his invincibility and immortality, yet his choices and actions shape his path.
Characters to notice
- Ogier the Dane
Protagonist; son of Geoffroy, hostage at Charlemagne's court, blessed by fairies, receives sword Cortana, and is knighted after rescuing Charlemagne.
- Charlemagne
Emperor; demands homage from Denmark, spares Ogier, leads campaign against Saracens, knights Ogier after rescue.
- Charlot
Son of Charlemagne; jealous of Ogier, plots treason, ambushes Ogier and Saracen knights.
- Carahue
King of Mauritania; challenges Ogier, surrenders himself to Charlemagne after Ogier's capture, later becomes ally.
- Duke Namo of Bavaria
Ogier's guardian and mentor; pleads for Ogier's life and supports him at court.
- Orlando
Young knight; pledges brotherhood in arms with Ogier after knighting ceremony.
- Oliver
Young knight; joins Orlando in pledging brotherhood with Ogier.
- Dannemont
Exiled king of Denmark; captures Ogier and opposes his release.
Key passages
“I give you to be the bravest warrior of your times.”
The eldest fairy grants Ogier unmatched bravery.
First fairy blessing during Ogier's infancy.
“I give you not to die till you shall have come to pay me a visit in my isle of Avalon.”
Morgana grants Ogier immortality until he visits Avalon.
Morgana's blessing ensures Ogier's long life.
“Brave Ogier, I am no longer your enemy, I pledge to you an eternal friendship.”
Carahue declares eternal friendship with Ogier after being rescued.
Carahue's gratitude after Ogier saves him in the ambush.
“My name is Cortana, of the same steel and temper as Joyeuse and Durindana.”
The sword Cortana is forged from the same metal as Charlemagne's and Roland's swords.
Inscription on Ogier's magical sword given by Morgana.
