Portrait of Lord Melvyn Bragg, host of In Our Time

Matter of France

The Matter of France, also known as the Carolingian cycle, is a body of literature and legendary material associated with the history of France, in particular involving Charlemagne and his associates. The cycle springs from the Old French chansons de geste, and was later adapted into a variety of art forms, including Renaissance epics and operas.

2 episodes

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  1. The Battle of Tours

    Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Battle of Tours of 732, in which a Frankish army led by Charles Martel defeated an invading Arab force.

    16 January 2014

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    Featuring: Hugh N. Kennedy, Rosamond McKitterick, Matthew Innes

     
  2. The Song of Roland

    Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the epic reimagining of the Battle of Roncevaux Pass in 778AD when Charlemagne's rearguard was ambushed and his knight Roland fought and died.

    4 November 2021

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    Featuring: Laura Ashe, Miranda Griffin, Luke Sunderland