chanson de geste

[shahn-sawn duh zhest]

noun

plural

chansons de geste 

1. (in medieval French literature) an epic poem written in assonant verse or rhyme about historical or legendary events or figures.

chanson de geste

/ ʃɑ̃sɔ̃ də ʒɛst /

noun

1. one of a genre of Old French epic poems celebrating heroic deeds, the most famous of which is the Chanson de Roland

Word History and Origins

Origin of chanson de geste¹

1865–70; < French: literally, song of deeds; chanson, gest

Word History and Origins

Origin of chanson de geste¹

literally: song of exploits