Bradamante

Tragicomedy by Garnier, published 1582. The subject is taken from Ariosto's chivalrous epic poem Orlando furioso. The plot concerns the mutual love of the converted Saracen knight Roger and the French warrior-maiden Bradamante. She will marry only a man who can defeat her in single combat; Roger achieves this, but fighting under the name of his high-born rival Leon. A happy outcome is assured by Leon's magnanimity and Roger's elevation to a throne. Praise of France and moralizing about political matters are incorporated into the play, whose varied tone embraces the homely discussions of Bradamante's parents, the dignified seriousness of Charlemagne, and the outpourings of unhappy lovers.

— Gillian Jondorf

Bradamante learns of the future descendants of herself and Ruggiero, from the sorceress Melissa: Gustave Dore's illustration to Orlando Furioso.

Bradamante (also spelled Bradamant) is the sister of Rinaldo, and one of the heroines of Orlando Furioso, Ludovico Ariosto's handling of the Charlemagne legends, also called the Matter of France.

Bradamante is depicted as one of the greatest female knights in literature. She is an expert fighter, and wields a magical lance that unhorses every one it touches. She later falls in love and marries the Moorish prince Ruggiero following his conversion to Christianity. Bradamante is also one of the main characters in Italo Calvino's surrealistic, highly ironic novel Il Cavaliere inesistente.

Robert Garnier, French dramatist of the 16th century, wrote the tragicomedy named Baramante that further develops the love story between the heroine and Roger (Ruggiero).

See also

• List of woman warriors in legend and mythology

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