The Song of Orlando is the oldest epic poem in French, written by an anonymous poet, composed between the end of the 11th century and the 12th century. This epic poem occupies an important place in the history of France and in the invention of Christianity. The Song of Orlando is a cultural artefact that takes us on the journey of medieval Europe, when religion becomes an important element in the formation of proto-Europe. Religion plays a crucial role in Orlando's Song and becomes a cause for criticism. Some readers may consider this poem to be a religious text, while for some readers it is a literary work of fiction and contains an ideological perspective. The Song of Orlando cannot be considered a religious text, however, the poet uses religion for the formation of national identity, military propaganda and to promote feudalism in proto-Europe. Cultural artifacts such as Orlando's Song and medieval architecture help create "Christianity." The Song of Orlando is a historical text that also involves fiction. It recalls the event of the battle of Roncesvali which occurred in 778 century between Christian Franks and Muslim Saracens. The non-fictionalized outline of Orlando's Song can be found in Eginardo's Vita Karoli Magni “Biography of Charlemagne” written in 817-30 and in Damaso Alonso's Nota Emilianense. Both historical accounts provide few details about the battle in which the army of Charlemagne (Holy Roman Emperor) faced a minor setback while returning to France and in this event some important warriors were killed, including Roland, the braver. “At this point,” says Robert Harrison in the introduction to The Song of Roland, “the story ends and the speculation begins.” (Harrison 11). Charlemagne's revenge for Roland's death,......middle of paper......not only misrepresents Christianity but also Islam. Christianity was transformed and then used to legitimize the secular goals of medieval Europe, which then became “Christianity”.Works CitedDavies, Norman, 1939-. Europe: a history. Oxford; New York: Oxford University Press, 1996. Print.Fredrickson, George M., 1934-. Racism: a brief history. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 2002. Print.Hobson, John M. The Eastern Origins of Western Civilization. Eds. E-books from Cambridge University Press (CRKN) - York University and Inc ebrary. Cambridge, United Kingdom ; New York: Cambridge University Press, 2004. Print.The Norton Anthology of World Masterpieces /. Ed. Maynard Mack 1909-. 5th ed. continental. -- and. New York: Norton, 1987. Print. Roland's song. Ed. Robert L. 1932-Harrison. New York: New American Library, 1970. Print.