Chanson de Guillaume, La. Chanson de geste related to the Cycle de Guillaume. The earliest portions, relating the death of Vivien at L'Archamp, date from about 1100. In a first interpolation (c.1150) Guillaume ‘al curb nés’ (‘Hooknose’) is aided by his nephew Gui, whose enfances are narrated. At line 1980 Guillaume has successfully avenged Vivien; at line 1981 he is viewing the wreck of another defeat. The revised ending, dating from the 1170s, exploits material related to Aliscans. The real hero is now the giant Renewart. The poem is remarkable for its mixture of stark grandeur, especially in portraying the desolation of war, and burlesque humour.
[Philip Bennett]
