Negative Positive
Title: Free is good, but the translation is frustrating at times
Review: This is an old translation and it shows in its maddening inconsistancies. For example, rather than simply referring to the protagonist as Roland, he is called "Rollant," "Rollanz";Ganelon, the treacherous Frank, is referred to as "Guenes"; Charlemagne goes by at least three other names (Carlun?). Other archaic spellings dominate too, like "Mahumet" for Muhammed, and gafaluns for whatever they might be.The syntax and diction are stiff and unnatural and line breaks are not noted. Here's a taste:"His arms to bear has shewn great lustihead; In vassalage he is well famoused; Christian were he, he'd shown good barronhead."So, it is a great story, but the best thing about this version is its price.
Is the review positive or negative? 