Story Summary
Discover The Death of El Cid, the legendary tale where the Spanish hero wins his final battle against the Almoravids from beyond the grave in Valencia.
Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, the legendary El Cid, lay dying in Valencia as the Almoravid army besieged the city walls. Realizing his end was near, the Great Campeador devised one final strategy to save his people. He instructed his wife, Doña Jimena, to keep his passing a secret from both his soldiers and his enemies. After he breathed his last, his loyal knights followed his final commands: they armored his lifeless body, placed his famous sword, Tizona, in his hand, and strapped him upright upon his faithful horse, Babieca. As the dawn broke and the gates of Valencia swung open, the 'ghost' of El Cid led the charge. The sight of the man they believed was mortally wounded—now charging toward them with a supernatural, pale gaze—struck divine terror into the hearts of the Almoravids. Believing he had risen from the grave to strike them down, the enemy fled in a panicked rout. Thus, El Cid achieved his most legendary victory days after his heart had ceased to beat.
The Moral
The power of a true leader's legacy and reputation can inspire courage and defeat fear even when they are no longer physically present.
“Even in death, the shadow of the Great Campeador was enough to break the resolve of an entire army.”
Fun Fact
The 'Cantar de mio Cid,' Spain's oldest surviving epic poem, actually ends before his death; the famous story of his corpse winning a battle appeared in later 13th-century chronicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of The Death of El Cid?
The moral is that a leader's legacy and the power of myth can achieve victory even after death. It emphasizes that true greatness and the inspiration one leaves behind transcend physical existence.
How did El Cid die in the legend?
In the legend, El Cid died of natural causes or exhaustion during the siege of Valencia in 1099. Before passing, he commanded his men to use his body to lead a final charge to ensure the city's safety.
Did El Cid really win a battle while dead?
While El Cid was a real historical figure who died in Valencia, the story of his corpse leading a charge is considered a mythic embellishment. It likely originated in later chronicles and ballads to emphasize his legendary status.
What was the name of El Cid's horse?
His loyal horse was named Babieca, a noble stallion often depicted as white. Babieca is a central figure in the legend, carrying his master's body through the final terrifying charge against the enemy.
Who was Doña Jimena?
Doña Jimena was the wife of El Cid. According to the legend, she was instrumental in carrying out his final wish, hiding his death and preparing his body for the final battle to maintain morale.
What happened to Valencia after El Cid died?
Historically, after El Cid's death in 1099, Jimena ruled Valencia for three years. However, the city was eventually recaptured by the Almoravids in 1102 as it became too difficult to defend without more support.