With every relationship comes struggle, especially when relationships over lap. Overlapping relationships cause a man to choose or be chosen based upon pride or loyalty. In the epic Poem, Raoul of Cambrai, translated by Jessie Crosland, Raoul of Cambrai and Bernier struggle in their relationship as a lord and a vassal, but also as friends or even brothers.
             In the twelfth century the relationship between a lord and his vassal was characterized by a low ranking person (vassal) pledging loyalty to a high ranking person (lord). The vassal, in turn received a fief (is in the time feudal law, an estate in land granted by a lord to his vassal on condition of homage and service) and protection from his chosen lord. This traditional contract allowed both the lord and the vassal to benefit from the other. It was an exchange of services. In the epic poem, Raoul of Cambrai, translated by Jessie Crosland this relationship between a lord and a vassal begins with loyalty, but ends with foolish pride. The stubbornness that exists between the characters Raoul and Bernier shatters the delicate balance of the relationship. Both characters are effectively blinded by their own problems, and neither can see how their selfish, stubborn attitude is destroying the bond, nor can each see his friend's dilemma.
             The relationship between a lord and a vassal during the time of Raoul and Bernier is more of a service than a relationship though many did turn out be more than a contract for land. In the case of Raoul and Bernier each man is to bring mutual protection and support to the other. And that is the central dilemma throughout this story, loyalty. For example vassals are also used as military counsel and advisors. Lords have many vassals that they can call upon at any time to serve in their defense as knights (60).
             In the age of chivalry, where a man chooses to place his loyalty is detrimental to how he lives his life. Bernier'...