This fourth volume picks up the sprawling threads of Ariosto's legendary poem. Charlemagne's Christian forces are still desperately defending Paris from the siege by the Saracen king Agramante. But the real action is everywhere else. The hero Roland (Orlando) is still roaming the countryside, completely insane with heartbreak over Angelica. Meanwhile, other knights like Ruggiero and Bradamante are on their own epic journeys, facing down monsters, enchanted castles, and their own complicated destinies.

Why You Should Read It

Look, this isn't a dry history lesson. It's a blast. Ariosto has this incredible, witty voice—he’ll set up a tense, heroic scene and then undercut it with a funny aside. The characters feel real in their passions and flaws, especially Orlando, whose legendary love-madness is both tragic and strangely relatable. The Francisque Reynard translation (this is from 1880) keeps the poetic rhythm but makes it surprisingly readable. It’s about honor, love, and chaos, but it never takes itself too seriously.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves grand, imaginative storytelling and doesn't mind a classic that breaks all the stuffy rules. If you enjoy the tangled plots of 'Game of Thrones,' the magical quests of 'The Lord of the Rings,' or even the romantic entanglements of a good soap opera, you'll find something to love here. Just dive in and enjoy the ride.