Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
The Peers, or Paladins explained
This chapter introduces the twelve most illustrious knights of Charlemagne, known as the Peers or Paladins, highlighting their equality and companionship with the king.
What happens
This chapter introduces the twelve most illustrious knights of Charlemagne, known as the Peers or Paladins, highlighting their equality and companionship with the king. It lists the most distinguished among them, including Orlando, Rinaldo, Namo, Salomon, Turpin, Astolpho, Ogier, Malagigi, and Florismart, and notes that Charlemagne himself is counted among them, as well as the treacherous Ganelon. The chapter sets the stage for a more detailed introduction of the principal peers, beginning with Orlando.
Themes in this chapter
Heroism and the Quest
The chapter establishes the heroic framework of the Paladins, setting the stage for their quests and adventures.
Cultural Transmission and Education
The chapter transmits the cultural lore of Charlemagne's court and the legendary Peers, educating readers on medieval romance traditions.
Characters to notice
- Charlemagne
The king and leader of the Paladins, counted among the Peers.
- Orlando
Favorite nephew of Charlemagne, also known as Roland, and the first peer to be introduced in detail.
- Rinaldo of Montalban
Cousin of Orlando and one of the most distinguished Paladins.
- Astolpho
Paladin from England, listed among the twelve most illustrious knights.
- Ogier the Dane
Celebrated Paladin and one of the principal peers.
- Malagigi
The Enchanter, a Paladin known for his magical arts.
Key passages
“The twelve most illustrious knights of Charlemagne were called Peers, for the equality that reigned among them; while the name of Paladins, also conferred on them, implies that they were inmates of the palace and companions of the king.”
Charlemagne's twelve greatest knights were known as Peers because they were considered equals, and they were also called Paladins, meaning they lived in the palace and were the king's close companions.
Explains the origin and meaning of the terms 'Peers' and 'Paladins'.
“We shall introduce more particularly to our readers a few of the principal peers, leaving the others to make their own introduction as they appear in the course of our narrative.”
We will give a more detailed introduction to some of the main peers, while the others will be introduced naturally as the story unfolds.
Foreshadows that the narrative will gradually introduce additional characters.