La “Fuite du Monde” dans la Chanson de Geste et le Western

Abstract

The aging heroes of Old French epic often turn to the monastic life to atone for the slaughter of countless Christian and Saracen knights. In these moniage narratives, the initial withdrawal from chivalric pursuits is temporary, for the hero is soon called out of retirement for a final confrontation with the forces of evil. A similar fate befalls numerous cowboys of the silver screen as they grow older, wiser, and weary of battle. Although the Westerner does not embrace the religious life, he is often domesticated by a pious woman. He renounces violence to lead a life for which he is ill suited. Coming out of (real or virtual) retirement for a final showdown, he fulfills his final destiny.