The Poem of the Cid: A Spanish Epic Hero
Analysis of the Poem
The Poem of the Cid, a cornerstone of Spanish epic literature, is rooted in historical events and geographical realities. It masterfully interweaves real-world elements with fantastical embellishments, such as the abduction of the Cid’s daughters by the Infantes of Carrión, to heighten the dramatic impact of key moments.
The Cid’s Life and History
To fully appreciate the Cid’s literary character, understanding his historical context is crucial. Around 1000 AD, the kingdoms of León, Castile, Navarra, and Aragon had reclaimed territories. The Cid, born Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar in Burgos around 1050, was knighted at a young age by King Fernando. He served under the king’s sons, Don Sancho II and Alfonso VI. Knighthood, originating between 700 and 1000 AD with Germanic warriors, involved three stages: page, squire, and knight. Knights upheld values such as serving in the Crusades, aiding the poor and the Church, and loyalty to the king. Their ultimate goal was to attain “courtly love.”
The Cid became a hero of the Spanish Reconquista, reclaiming Iberian lands from Muslim rule. Chronicles lauded him as the greatest man of his time. Upon King Fernando’s death, his lands were divided among his three sons, sparking a power struggle between Sancho II of Castile and Alfonso VI (supported by their sister Urraca). Sancho, while besieging Zamora to capture Alfonso, was treacherously killed by Bellido Dolfos, an envoy of his brother. The Cid swore to Alfonso VI in the church of Santa Gadea de Burgos that he played no part in Sancho’s death.
In 1074, the Cid married Jimena Díaz, daughter of the Count of Oviedo. He was tasked with collecting tribute from Seville, leading to a confrontation with Count García Ordóñez, a future adversary. Despite successfully collecting the tribute, the Cid’s enemies falsely accused him of theft, leading to his exile.
Exile, Conquest, and Legacy
During his exile, the Cid garnered followers and earned the respect of some Arab kings, who supported him against the Almoravids. He led successful campaigns, conquering territories and annexing them to the Christian side, culminating in the capture of Valencia in 1094. He strengthened alliances through marriages: his daughter María (Doña Sol) married the Count of Barcelona, and Cristina (Doña Elvira) married the Infante Ramiro of Navarra.
Despite his reputation, the Cid’s enemies succeeded in having him banished from Castile in 1081. Undeterred, he continued fighting independently, becoming a formidable force against the Moors. He died in 1099, reportedly from grief over a defeat at Consuegra. His remains, initially taken to Burgos by the French, were returned to Spain in 1883 and now rest in Burgos.
The Cid’s Enduring Values
The Cid exemplifies the virtues of a medieval Spanish epic hero. His unwavering bravery, moral strength, and resilience in the face of exile are testaments to his character. He remained devoted to his country and king, dedicating himself to reclaiming Spanish territory from the Moors. He consistently sent spoils of war to King Alfonso, demonstrating his continued loyalty and respect. He even requested the king to preside over his daughters’ weddings, further emphasizing his deference to his sovereign.
The Cid’s pursuit of excellence in battle, his unwavering courage, and his strategic intelligence are evident throughout his life. He used battle not only to regain his honor but also to demonstrate his worthiness to the king. His legacy as a heroic figure is immortalized through his victories and enduring presence in Spanish literature.