"Rolandskvadet" - Norwegian Song About Roland

The Song of Roland is a French epic poem from the 11th century that tells the story of the Battle of Roncevaux Pass, which took place in 778 during the reign of Charlemagne. Roland is a French military leader who is betrayed by his uncle, Ganelon, and attacked by a group of Saracens. Roland and his men fight bravely until they are all killed. The Song of Roland is an example of a chanson de geste, a type of medieval French poem that celebrates the heroic deeds of knights and warriors.

English lyrics: (This is a literal translation, so it may not always match the original lyrics)

Six men staved behind
To guard their gold;
The other six in heathen lands
Brandished cold steel.

They rode out of Frankish lands
With spoils in their saddles.
Blow your horn, Olifant, At Roncevaux.

They fought at Roncevaux For two days, if not three;
And the sun could not shine clear
Through the stench of men's blood.

They rode out of Frankish lands
With spoils in their saddles.
Blow your horn, Olifant, At Roncevaux.

Roland placed the horn to his bloodied mouth
And blew with all his might.
The earth shook and mountains resounded
For three days and nights.

They rode out of Frankish lands
With spoils in their saddles.
Blow your horn, Olifant, At Roncevaux.