Astolfo, also known as Astolpho, is a legendary character in Italian and French literature, mainly from the La Chanson de Roland, Orlando Innamorato, and Orlando Furioso, which are part of the Matter of France. Astolfo is a great warrior, a skilled hunter, and a wise counselor. He rides a magnificent white horse named Rabicante, which is said to be faster than the wind. In this article, we will explore Astolfo’s origins, his role in these epic poems, and his lasting influence on art and literature.

Astolfo’s Origin

Astolfo first appeared in La Chanson de Roland, a French epic poem from the late twelfth century. In the story, Astolfo is one of Charlemagne’s twelve peers and a member of the Frankish court. He is described as a brave, honorable, and fearless warrior who is skilled with the lance and the sword. Astolfo is present during the famous Battle of Roncevaux, where he fights alongside Roland and the other paladins. He is later sent by Charlemagne on a mission to recover the sword of Roland and presents it to the emperor.

Astolfo’s Role in Italian Epic Poetry

Astolfo’s character is later expanded in the Italian epic poem Orlando Innamorato by Ludovico Ariosto. Here, Astolfo is portrayed as a knight of utmost variability, shifting from ferocity to compassion, from bravery to cowardice, and from wisdom to foolishness. He seeks adventures, but often ends up in absurd situations. One notable example is when Astolfo meets the beautiful Angelica, whom he tries to woo unsuccessfully. After realizing that he cannot win her heart, Astolfo steals her magic ring, which can make its wearer invisible, and uses it to rescue his friend Orlando from a magician’s castle.

Astolfo’s character is further developed in Ariosto’s sequel, Orlando Furioso, where he becomes a central figure. In this poem, Astolfo is sent to the moon by the sorceress Alcina to recover Orlando’s lost sanity. In the moon, Astolfo meets the wizard Atlante, who reveals to him the secrets of the universe and gives him a magical horn which can cure any disease. Astolfo also visits the Garden of Eden and steals a lock of Angelica’s hair, which he later uses to cure Orlando.

Astolfo’s Influence on Art and Literature

Astolfo’s character has had a lasting impact on art and literature. He has appeared in numerous works of fiction, drama, and poetry, and has been portrayed by many artists. Astolfo’s legendary white horse, Rabicante, has also become an iconic image in art, often depicted as a symbol of purity and courage.

Perhaps one of the most famous portrayals of Astolfo is in Ludwig van Beethoven’s opera Fidelio. In the opera, Astolfo is a prisoner in a political detention center who is rescued by the heroine Leonore. Beethoven’s Astolfo stands as a symbol of freedom and justice, and his aria “O welche Lust” (“Oh what joy”) has become a popular piece in the classical music repertoire.

In conclusion, Astolfo is a legendary character who has captured the imagination of readers, artists, and composers for centuries. He represents the virtues of courage, honor, and wisdom, as well as the pitfalls of ambition and vanity. Astolfo’s story is a testament to the enduring power of epic poetry and its impact on society and culture.

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