Orlando Furioso, Canto 18 summary
Canto 18 of 46 · 49 min to read the canto
In Canto 18, Rodomonte escapes Paris and pursues Doralice’s captor, while Charles attacks the Saracen army and Norandino recognizes his injustice toward Grifone. Aquilante captures Martano and Orrigille and brings them to Damascus, where Grifone seeks mercy for both despite his brother’s and the king’s demands for punishment.
What happens
- Grifone kills his persecutors near Damascus, while Charles and his warriors surround Rodomonte inside Paris.
- Rodomonte escapes across the Seine, but the dwarf’s report about Doralice redirects his anger toward her captor.
- Charles attacks the Saracen forces; Dardinel kills Lurcanio, and Ariodante struggles unsuccessfully to reach his brother’s killer.
- Norandino recognizes Grifone’s courage, stops the attack, apologizes, and brings the wounded knight into his palace.
- Aquilante follows news of Orrigille, catches her with Martano, exposes Martano’s lie, and takes both prisoners to Damascus.
- Norandino imprisons the captives; Aquilante and the king demand punishment, but Grifone argues for pardon without a settled result.
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In this canto
What to notice
The king openly reverses his judgment of Grifone. His admission ends the attack and turns public disgrace into recognition and royal care.
Quick check
How does Aquilante know Martano lies about Orrigille being his sister?
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