The White Company · Chapter
How the Army Made the Passage of Roncesvalles explained
The English army, led by the Prince and Sir John Chandos, marches through the perilous Pass of Roncesvalles into Navarre.
What happens
The English army, led by the Prince and Sir John Chandos, marches through the perilous Pass of Roncesvalles into Navarre. Sir Nigel Loring grumbles about the lack of honorable combat, lamenting the modern ways of war that rely on hostages and payments rather than chivalric feats. Alleyne Edricson observes the vast host and learns from Aylward of the impending conflict with Du Guesclin and the French forces supporting King Pedro's rival.
Themes in this chapter
Chivalry and Honor
Sir Nigel laments the decline of chivalric warfare, contrasting the modern use of hostages and payments with the old ways of honorable combat and spear-runnings.
War and Violence
The chapter depicts the massive military mobilization, the grim realities of marching through a hostile pass, and the anticipation of bloody conflict.
Camaraderie and Brotherhood
The bond among the English archers and knights is evident as they march together, with Aylward and Alleyne sharing a moment of observation and conversation.
Characters to notice
- Alleyne Edricson
Observes the mountain scenery and the army's passage; listens to Sir Nigel's complaints and Aylward's news.
- Sir Nigel Loring
Rides proudly at the head of his company, but is disgruntled by the peaceful passage and longs for a chance to prove his chivalry.
- Black Simon of Norwich
Offers local knowledge of the pass, suggesting inns and a buried treasure, but is rebuked by Sir Nigel.
- Samkin Aylward
Sits with Alleyne on a boulder, commenting on the army and predicting future battles with Du Guesclin.
- Sir John Chandos
Leads a strong column of archers through the pass; described as a fierce old warrior with a single gleaming eye.
- Sir Robert Knolles
Mentioned as one of the war-hardened veterans heading the column through the pass.
- Captal de Buch
Listed among the Gascon chivalry accompanying the army.
Key passages
“By Saint Paul! this pass is a very perilous place, and I would that the King of Navarre had held it against us, for it would have been a very honorable venture had it fallen to us to win a passage.”
Sir Nigel wishes the pass had been defended so they could have fought for it honorably.
Expresses Sir Nigel's desire for chivalric combat over a peaceful march.
“Nay, nay, Simon, I pray you to forget these free companion tricks.”
Sir Nigel rebukes Black Simon for suggesting they extort a local innkeeper.
Highlights Sir Nigel's adherence to honorable conduct.
“It was not so that war was made when good King Edward first turned his hand to it... By Saint Paul! it was a noble sight when two great armies would draw together upon a certain day, and all who had a vow would ride forth to discharge themselves of it.”
Sir Nigel nostalgically recalls the old chivalric style of warfare with formal battles and personal vows.
Contrasts past ideals with the present pragmatic military campaign.