The narrative centers on the knight Orlando, whose sudden, all-consuming infatuation with the princess Angelica disrupts the established order of Charlemagne's court. Driven by this newfound passion, Orlando abandons his duties to pursue Angelica across a vast, magical landscape. He faces various supernatural obstacles, rival knights, and complex political machinations that threaten the stability of the Christian and Saracen forces. The poem utilizes a multi-stranded narrative structure, frequently shifting focus between numerous characters to maintain a sense of constant motion and interconnected conflict.

Readers and critics frequently note the work's significance as a precursor to Ariosto's more famous sequel, highlighting its inventive and often humorous tone. Discussion often centers on the poem's unique ability to blend the serious themes of crusader epics with the whimsical, magical elements typical of Arthurian romance. Critics emphasize the pacing, which remains rapid and inexhaustible, keeping the reader engaged through constant shifts in location and character focus. Many observers highlight the text's role in establishing the conventions of the chivalric romance genre that would dominate European literature for centuries. The balance between character-driven romantic pursuits and the broader, world-building elements of the fairyland setting remains a primary point of interest for scholars and casual readers alike.