Elvira recounts to Chimène that Rodrigo has returned from war a hero. After a three-hour battle, Rodrigo’s army conquered the Moorish invaders and captured two kings as prisoners. The Moors hold Rodrigo in awe and call him “The Cid,” from the Arabic sayyid, meaning “lord.” The citizens of Seville sing Rodrigo’s praises. Chimène complains that this news only emphasizes her conflicted feelings about Rodrigo.

The Infanta tells Chimène to abandon her quest for revenge since Rodrigo has shown himself indispensable to the nation’s defense. Chimène says she is unable to do this because her sense of duty to her father’s memory remains strong.

The King congratulates Rodrigo on his exploits and confirms his new title “The Cid.” Rodrigo recounts to the King the details of his battle with the Moors.