UvTRW-1: Prologue: invocation of the Holy Trinity. Ulrich’s prayer to God; his work is written in His honor and in honor of St Willehalm, who fought against heathens. Ulrich’s work is the continuation of Wolfram’s von Eschenbach “Willehalm”, which ended with Willehalm leaving Provence after the battle of Alytshanz, where Rennewart was lost.

Motif References:

UvTRW-184: Willehalm was victorious in battle; the heathens fled to their ships and left Terramer behind.

Motif References:

W 121 Cowardice
R 220 Flights
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]

UvTRW-202: In a long discussion, Rennewart tries to convert Terramer to Christianity and identifies himself as his son. Yet Terramer remains stubborn, as he believes him to be guilty of all the damage done. He refuses conversion.

Motif References:

P 233 Father and son
V 351 Duel (debate) to prove which religion is better

UvTRW-408: Terramer reproaches Rennewart with the fact that among the heathens he killed were also his nephew and his brother. Rennewart fought with his heavy steel rod, causing blood-streams on the battlefield. Rennewart says he would be glad about Terramer’s death if he does not convert.

Motif References:

F 835 Extraordinary club [pole]
F 1084.1 Deep streams of blood flow during battle

UvTRW-505: At Terramer’s refusal to convert to Christianity, Rennewart attacks and wounds him, then kills the heathen King Aloes and wounds Tampaste, Malgwin and Kator, who surrenders.

Motif References:

S 21 Cruel son
V 335 (Bm) Refusal to change religion
F 610 Remarkably strong man

UvTRW-566: Terramer and about 100 of his kings get to their ships and flee. They have to row by themselves.

Motif References:

R 220 Flights

UvTRW-593: Terramer arrives in Kordes. He tells people about the losses in the battle that was caused because Tybalt was left by Arabel, who converted to Christianity because of her love for Willehalm.

Motif References:

R 225 Elopement
V 331.5 Conversion to Christianity through love

UvTRW-620: A giant in iron armor and with a heavy rod as weapon – it has to be transported with a cart – comes over the sea. He is alone except for his servants. The heathens who were left behind when Terramer and the other kings fled ask him for support against Rennewart. The giant grants help and leaves to find Rennewart – he has heard much about him.

Motif References:

F 531 Giant
F 531.4.5.1 Giant with iron club [pole] as weapon
N 812 Giant or ogre as helper
F 835.2.1 Iron club [pole] so heavy that five [several] men can hardly lift it
H 1225 Quest for strong adversary

UvTRW-727: The heathens devastate a bean-field, thus causing damage to the peasants there who flee. One of them meets Rennewart and informs him about the events.

Motif References:

UvTRW-779: Rennewart searches for heathens, finds them and kills or wounds over 1500 of them (war-cry: “Montshoye”). Four heathens attack him at once. He kills or wounds three of them, but fights in a long single combat with the fourth who surrenders in the name of love (minne). Rennewart lets him live.

Motif References:

W 11.5 Generosity toward enemy
R 75 Surrendering
L 325.1 (Bm) Victory over superior force: one against many
P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
F 614.10 Strong hero fights whole army alone

UvTRW-979: The giant follows Rennewart’s tracks. They finally meet and discover that they have common ancestors: Rennewart’s father Terramer is a free heathen, Arabel is his sister. He reveals his name and declares himself a Christian. He challenges the other one to single combat.

Motif References:

P 556.0.1 (Bm) Challenge to single combat [feud]

UvTRW-1105: The giant introduces himself as Baldewin, king of Falfunde and Rennewart’s cousin. He has only come over the sea as he wanted to meet the invincible Rennewart. He wants him to return to heathendom, which Rennewart refuses, as Mahmet is not able to resuscitate the dead. Further provocative religious speeches lead to single combat.

Motif References:

H 11.1.4 Recognition by tracing ancestry
V 351 Duel (debate) to prove which religion is better
N 746 Accidental meeting of cousins

UvTRW-1196: Single combat between Baldewin and Rennewart.

Motif References:

P 550.2 (Li) Single combat

UvTRW-1232: Rennewart prays to Christ for help and strength. Willehalm, who has been searching for Rennewart for a long time, approaches and wants to intermediate, but Rennewart refuses.

Motif References:

V 50 Prayer

UvTRW-1350: When seriously wounded on his forehead, Rennewart prays again: he promises conversion and prays to the Virgin Mary. Rennewart destroys Baldewin’s rod which is so heavy that it has to be carried by four men. He uses a part of it as weapon.

Motif References:

V 50 Prayer
M 177.1 Vow to become a Christian
F 531.4.5.1 Giant with iron club [pole] as weapon
F 835.2.1 Iron club [pole] so heavy that five [several] men can hardly lift it

UvTRW-1432: Baldewin steals Rennewart’s sword from his scabbard. They start to wrestle. Willehalm again wants to intermediate.

Motif References:

K 2370 Miscellaneous deceptions

UvTRW-1500: Rennewart seriously wounds Baldewin, who finally surrenders and promises conversion, as the Christian God seems to be more powerful than the heathen gods. Willehalm advises Rennewart to ask Baldewin for his word of honor. As he is related to Kyburc, his life is spared.

Motif References:

R 75 Surrendering
M 177.1 Vow to become a Christian
V 331.1.3 Conversion to Christianity because the heathen gods prove to be less powerful
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
F 639.4 Strong man overcomes giant

UvTRW-1601: Baldewin gives his word of honor to come back when he will have converted his people – he is reliable, as a king must not lie. He is released.

Motif References:

R 9.10 (Bm) Release from captivity
M 150 Other vows and oaths

UvTRW-1634: Rennewart tells Willehalm about the peasants whose bean-field was destroyed by heathens. He killed all of them except for one whom he released. He wants to pursue the other heathens to avenge the peasants. Vrouwe melde shows the heathens’ camp to Rennewart. He kills many of them and gives the peasants money and horses as redemption.

Motif References:

Z 139 Personifications – miscellaneous
L 325.1 (Bm) Victory over superior force: one against many
F 614.10 Strong hero fights whole army alone

UvTRW-1694: Willehalm returns to Orense, unwittingly leaving Rennewart behind. This causes Kyburc to wring her hands, beat her breast and quarrel with him. People cry. Willehalm sends out knights to search for Rennewart, who is furious and refuses to return. Willehalm sends other messengers; Rennewart knocks two of them down. He utters the threat to return to heathendom. As he would be more willing to listen to Kyburc, she and Willehalm decide that she shall make an attempt to bring him back. Prayer for support.

Motif References:

Z 200 Heroes
N 310 Accidental separations

UvTRW-1920: Kyburc meets Rennewart the moment he is about to go on board the ship to return home. She falls at his feet and begs him to stay. Rennewart refuses again at first, referring to the menial service he had to do at king Loys’s court (he worked as a kitchen-boy), but is finally convinced by Kyburc, who falls again at his feet. They kiss and reconcile.

Motif References:

L 113.1.2 Stable [kitchen]-boy as hero
L 131 Hearth abode of unpromising hero (heroine)

UvTRW-2129: Reconciliation between Rennewart and Willehalm. They decide to divide the booty among the warriors on the day of Rennewart’s baptism, which shall take place in one month’s time. The bishop of Tolus shall baptize Rennewart; afterwards, Rennewart will reveal the secret of his ancestry. Willehalm gives his herald orders to tell the leaving warriors to stay. Other guests arrive for the baptism.

Motif References:

UvTRW-2373: Rennewart’s baptism takes place in the minster. Rennewart gives profession of faith. He begs the bishop of Tolus, Heymrich and his sons to be his godfathers. The bishop exorcizes him. When Rennewart reveals his identity, Kyburc realizes that he is her brother. She begs Heymrich to hold his godchild, which he refuses, as he is too heavy to be carried by forty men. His thumb is larger than Heymrich’s hand. The bishop pushes Rennewart into the font and baptizes him, painting the cross on his forehead with chrisam.

Motif References:

V 81 Baptism
V 86 Sign of the Cross
P 122 (Bm) Archbishop and bishop
H 194 (Bm) Recognition only through direct revelation of identity
P 296.1 Godfather
V 332 Baptism of heathen
F 533 Remarkably tall man
N 734 Accidental meeting of brother and sister

UvTRW-2474: Rennewart wants to be knighted. Willehalm describes the test of valor he has to undergo: pierce two shields and three armors on a quintain munfort. Rennewart argues that he has proved his valor already in war against the heathens, but gives in, as he does not want to break with tradition. Willehalm lists the knightly virtues (munificence – milte -, love – minne, honor – ere, help comrades).

Motif References:

UvTRW-2622: Rennewart talks about his grief to Willehalm: he has fallen in love with a girl and stolen a kiss from her. Willehalm already knows that it is Alyse.

Motif References:

T 29 Falling in love – miscellaneous
T 99 Love – additional motifs

UvTRW-2654: Rennewart is knighted. The bishop sings mass and blesses his sword and his shield. Heymrich girds Rennewart with the sword.

Motif References:

V 49 Mass – miscellaneous motifs
P 53 (Bm) Obtaining knighthood
P 54 (Bm) Knighting custom
P 122 (Bm) Archbishop and bishop

UvTRW-2681: Willehalm gives Rennewart the horse Margrite, which he once won in a fight with Gravere. The horse is polychromatic: white sides, grey chest; legs are white, blonde, blood-red and black. Its bottom and neck are colored like a leopard; its head resembles a mule’s head.

Motif References:

B 731.2.1 Horse with crimson mane and green legs [Polychromatic horse]

UvTRW-2706: Rennewart gets armor which was made by a certain Antiquites. It is so heavy that it can not be carried by six men. Rennewart lifts it with one hand.

Motif References:

F 824 Extraordinary [part of] armor

UvTRW-2726: Rennewart’s precious helmet (set with jewels, richly decorated) has an incandescent jewel in its nose guard. At first, he does not want to wear it, as it obstructs his sight, but on Willehalm’s advice (a knight has to wear a helmet), he accepts it.

Motif References:

F 824 Extraordinary [part of] armor
F 826 Extraordinary jewels
D 1645.1 Incandescent jewel

UvTRW-2800: When Rennewart mounts his horse, it almost breaks down under his weight. He waves his spear like a twig and attacks the quintain. He succeeds in the test: he destroys the quintain completely and breaks the horse’s back.

Motif References:

F 610 Remarkably strong man
H 1561 Tests of valor

UvTRW-2832: The remarkably handsome giant Baldewin comes with 20,000 warriors, thus fulfilling his promise. As they all want to get baptized, the bishop of Tolus sends for 200 priests. Kyburc receives Baldewin and his men.

Motif References:

M 202 Fulfulling of bargain or promise
F 531.1.0.1 Beauty of giant

UvTRW-2934: Baptism of Baldewin and his 20,000 men. Afterwards, a mounted game (buhurt) takes place.

Motif References:

V 332 Baptism of heathen
F 531.5.8.3 Giants christianized

UvTRW-2962: After dinner, Willehalm and Rennewart give presents to the guests, as it is the custom. The booty from the war with the heathens is divided among the knights. The warriors leave, Baldewin returns to his country. Only the knights that came directly from Loys’s court are asked to stay. Willehalm asks them to talk to Loys on behalf of Rennewart and Alyse. He wants them to marry and menaces Loys in case he refuses.

Motif References:

P 324 Host greets guest with gifts [Welcome and parting gifts]

UvTRW-3105: Rennewart talks about his love for Alyse: he was given to her as a servant as a child. He wants to marry her. Willehalm and also the other French and Heymrich promise to support him.

Motif References:

T 23 (Bm) Childhood sweethearts
T 31 Lovers’ meeting: hero in service of [given as playmate to] heroine

UvTRW-3283: Heymrich returns with the knights he invited to Naribon, where they are all welcomed by Irmenshart; she greets her husband with kisses. The guests are treated with food and drink. Heymrich gives them presents from the booty left from the war against the heathens. He begs them to convince Loys to have Rennewart and Alyse married. He himself will go to Munleun.

Motif References:

P 320 Hospitality

UvTRW-3430: Rennewart is lovesick. He threatens to renounce Christianity if God does not help him. He wants to kill King Loys and take over the reign as revenge for being treated as a menial (kitchen-boy). Kyburc reproves this behavior which is unworthy of a knight. She asks Willehalm for advice. He promises to help Rennewart and sends messengers to Loys to announce his, Kyburc’s and Rennewart’s arrival.

Motif References:

T 24.1 Love-sickness

UvTRW-3862: In the meantime, Heymrich has arrived in Munleun. He and his followers are received by Alyse, the king’s daughter. The queen (Heymrich’s daughter) greets her father with a kiss; Alyse kisses him on the mouth. Heymrich begs her for her blessing.

Motif References:

P 632 Customs concerning recognition of rank

UvTRW-3967: Heymrich’s speech at court: He was sent as a matchmaker, as his son Willehalm, who fought for Loys, wants Rennewart to be allowed to marry Alyse. Heymrich praises Rennewart’s deeds (he killed many heathens in the war) and reveals his noble origin, but also tells Loys about the threats Rennewart uttered against him because of the bad treatment he had to endure in the past (menial service in kitchen): he wants to win Loys’s crown. He also repeats Willehalm’s threats (devastation of country, death for Loys). Loys intends to ask the queen.

Motif References:

T 53 Matchmakers
V 339.1.1 (Bm) Christian leads Saracen army [Heathen fights in Christian army]

UvTRW-4178: The queen at first refuses to give Alyse to Rennewart, as it is not customary to woo by threats, but gives in after Alyse’s speech (she talks in general, not revealing her beloved one’s identity).

Motif References:

UvTRW-4335: In the meantime, Willehalm’s messengers (knights, not pages) arrive; they announce Willehalm’s and Rennewart’s arrival and ask for accommodation. As Alyse is very happy about their arrival, her mother guesses that Rennewart is her beloved one. This takes place in May (the battle took place in March).

Motif References:

UvTRW-4480: Loys and Heymrich leave to meet Willehalm and Rennewart on their way on the evening before Pentecost.

Motif References:

UvTRW-4526: In the great hall (palas), the ladies try to catch a glimpse of the remarkably handsome Rennewart (his beauty was described by Wolfram).

Motif References:

F 575.2 Handsome man

UvTRW-4638: Loys asks Alyse to greet Rennewart with a kiss; she blushes and pales alternately (signs of love). Then, the queen kisses Rennewart and Willehalm, Alyse kisses Willehalm etc.

Motif References:

T 24.5 Boy [girl] turns red and white from love
P 632 Customs concerning recognition of rank

UvTRW-4676: Loys arranges a seating plan for dinner: Alyse shall eat with Rennewart, Heymrich with the queen, he himself with Willehalm (chicken, fish, pheasant, partridge, wine and mead, spiced red wine (lutertranc), claret, syropel are served). Loys then begs Rennewart for forgiveness of the bad treatment at his court: Rennewart had to do service in the kitchen (he threw a cook into the fire).

Motif References:

P 632 Customs concerning recognition of rank

UvTRW-4809: When Loys asks Willehalm about Rennewart’s descent, Willehalm tells him that he is Terramer’s son; his beauty is a sign of his noble origin.

Motif References:

H 41 Recognition of royalty [nobility] by personal characteristics or traits

UvTRW-4866: A family council is convened about Rennewart’s and Alyse’s marriage; Heymrich advises to call for them and ask them in the circle if they want to marry.

Motif References:

P 200 The family

UvTRW-4977: Loys takes Alyse’s hand and leads her into the circle, telling her that the family council has decided to marry her to Rennewart. Willehalm asks Rennewart to swear that he wants to marry her. Rennewart says that he was “married” to Alyse before he left, as he kissed her. He is ready to vow on sacred relics if she consents as well. Loys now entrusts Alyse to Rennewart and names him as his successor.

Motif References:

P 17.0.2.1 At son’s [daughter’s] wedding [betrothal] king names him [son-in-law] as successor
T 61.4 Betrothal ceremony
P 548 Miscellaneous legal customs [problems]

UvTRW-5097: They then go to mass (which is better done with an empty stomach). After mass, the priest weds Alyse and Rennewart. A feast takes place after the wedding. At night, the newly-weds are conducted to their bed.

Motif References:

V 49 Mass – miscellaneous motifs
T 135.9 Wedding ceremony in church
T 137.2 Bride and bridegroom conducted to bridal bed

UvTRW-5171: During the night, when Alyse is asleep, a voice sent from God speaks to Rennewart prophesying the birth of a son who will be stronger and more famous than he himself, but also says that Alyse will die during birth. Rennewart’s weeping wakes up Alyse, but he keeps the prophecy to himself.

Motif References:

N 121 Fate decided before birth
Z 254 Destined hero
M 311.0.4 Heavenly voices proclaim birth of future (child) hero
M 341.1.7 Prophecy: death at birth of child
M 361 Fated hero
V 550 (Bm) Voice from heaven
F 966 Voices from heaven (or from the air)

UvTRW-5318: As it is the custom, Rennewart and Alyse are visited by their kin (the queen, then Heymrich) in the morning, then they get up; Rennewart greets the knights, then Loys and Willehalm. Cheerful conversation (jokes) between Rennewart and Willehalm. Rennewart pretends to become angry with him and reminds him of the deeds he has done for him (he liberated Willehalm’s nephews from captivity), then laughs with joy about his joke.

Motif References:

T 137 Customs following wedding
K 1772 Pretended anger

UvTRW-5514: After the meal, the guests want to take leave, but Loys begs them to stay for another night. Willehalm takes leave and returns to Orense together with some of the musicians.

Motif References:

UvTRW-5698: Orense is still besieged by Terramer with an enormous army and animals – aurochs and bisons (urrinder and wisent). Willehalm crosses the enemy’s lines and is let in by Kyburc, who comes running to meet him, which is inconvenient behavior for a lady.

Motif References:

P 557.0.4 (Li) Siege
B 845 Wild animals herded
F 873.2 Enormous army (camp)[train]

UvTRW-5833: Willehalm’s spies bring news that the heathens act very carelessly (they did not leave any guards etc.), so Willehalm decides to fight. He kills many heathens on his own.

Motif References:

L 325.1 (Bm) Victory over superior force: one against many
F 614.10 Strong hero fights whole army alone
J 2199 Absurd short-sightedness – miscellaneous

UvTRW-5930: The heathens fear Willehalm; Terramer laments the dead and admits how much he fears Willehalm and Rennewart. Malachas advises him to fight, Pavalar advises him to deliberate with Willehalm. Terramer decides to attack Orense again. Willehalm leaves Orense clandestinely to get Rennewart’s help.

Motif References:

P 557.0.1 (Li) Council of war

UvTRW-6212: But God sends frost and thunderstorms, so Terramer and his army – the warriors believe that the Christian God is mightier than Appolle – have to retreat. Meanwhile, Willehalm has arrived in Munleun, in Kerlingen. He begs Rennewart for help.

Motif References:

V 201 God
R 220 Flights
N 817.0.1 God as helper
F 962 Extraordinary precipitation (rain, snow, etc.)

UvTRW-6401: As Rennewart has sworn not to fight before his child is born, he refuses to help Willehalm, which causes a quarrel between the friends: Willehalm accuses Rennewart of cowardice.

Motif References:

M 166 Other vows about fighting
T 299 Other aspects of married life – miscellaneous

UvTRW-6610: On his way back to Orense, Willehalm meets messengers who inform him about Terramer’s retreat because of storms and frost sent by God. He prays for God’s help in the future. Kyburc laments Rennewart’s lack of courage caused by Alyse’s pregnancy, but Willehalm defends his friend – he would do the same for her. On Willehalm’s request, Kyburc writes a letter to her brother to inform him about the heathens’ retreat (6824).

Motif References:

V 50 Prayer
V 201 God
R 220 Flights
N 817.0.1 God as helper
F 962 Extraordinary precipitation (rain, snow, etc.)

UvTRW-6902: Rennewart regrets that he is only a guest and stranger at Loys’s court and begs him for an allod. Loys at first wants to give Rennewart only half of Portebaliart – situated near heathen territory –, as he fears that Rennewart might fall under heathen influence. Rennewart will rule over the whole of Portebaliart after his death. But Rennewart convinces him of his true faith and is entrusted with all of Portebaliart. Loys sends messengers to summon knights to Munleun, as he wants them to accompany Rennewart.

Motif References:

P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]

UvTRW-7116: The queen wants Rennewart to postpone his departure until their child is born. She knows that Alyse will not survive childbed and that she herself is going to die when Alyse dies. Rennewart refuses.

Motif References:

D 1812.4 Future revealed by presentiment: “knowledge within”

UvTRW-7158: Loys greets the knights and explains that he wants them to accompany Rennewart to Portebaliart. One of the knights mentions that Willehalm would deserve to be crowned because of his merits; Loys recalls that Willehalm once refused the crown of France.

Motif References:

W 47 (Hi) Humility and modesty

UvTRW-7226: The queen laments the departure of her daughter Alyse; she wrings her hands so that they crackle. She equips her daughter richly (presents for her entourage), as a lady has to be munificent.

Motif References:

P 232 Mother and daughter

UvTRW-7294: The queen tells her daughter that they will not meet again, as she already knows about her death.

Motif References:

D 1812.4 Future revealed by presentiment: “knowledge within”

UvTRW-7334: Sixty ladies accompany Alyse: twenty are forty, twenty are thirty, ten are 25 years of age, ten are not specified. The queen provides two knights as guards for each lady. Alyse blesses her entourage.

Motif References:

UvTRW-7384: The queen accompanies Alyse to her horse (precious saddle and bridle). They finally take a tearful farewell. The queen laments loudly and begs God for death; she commends Alyse to the bishop Symon of Leun and to the abbot of St Dyonis and sends Alyse’s former governess, Mundane, with her. She kisses Alyse’s ladies, then Alyse herself goodbye (7507). Rennewart takes leave from the queen.

Motif References:

P 232 Mother and daughter

UvTRW-7544: Rennewart’s rod and his armor are carried by an extra cart. He takes ten horses with him, so that he can change more often if they get tired from carrying his heavy weight.

Motif References:

Z 201 (Bm) Famous possessions of hero
F 610.7 Strong man is so heavy that no horse can carry him all day [that can’t even be carried by two horses]
F 824 Extraordinary [part of] armor
F 835.2.1 Iron club [pole] so heavy that five [several] men can hardly lift it

UvTRW-7556: Loys accompanies his daughter; he also laments her departure and cries. He gives her a few rules on the way on how to gain people’s respect: greet everyone, give presents, do not swear.

Motif References:

P 234 Father and daughter

UvTRW-7674: Alyse and Rennewart travel to Portebaliart; they pass their time with many a good tale. At their arrival, they are met by an army; Rennewart’s messenger makes enquiries about their intentions: They want to receive him properly as their lord and welcome his patronage against the heathens.

Motif References:

UvTRW-7744: Three kings of Yberne want to become Rennewart’s vassals and be enfeoffed by him with their countries. Ceremony: Rennewart enfeoffs Koniun of Beazar by handing him twelve brown banners, Gorgor of Falfeste by giving him 15 red banners, Eraclius of Samaria by handing him nine green banners. They swear support against the heathens.

Motif References:

P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
M 100.0.1 (Li) Oath of allegiance
Z 150 Other symbols
P 548 Miscellaneous legal customs [problems]

UvTRW-7862: Alyse and Rennewart are welcomed in Portebaliart. The great hall (palas) is decorated with gold. Alyse gets off her horse and is greeted by the ladies.

Motif References:

UvTRW-7903: After three days, Rennewart’s followers take leave. Alyse gives them many presents. They return to France. Rennewart keeps his knowledge of Alyse’s death in childbed as a secret.

Motif References:

P 324 Host greets guest with gifts [Welcome and parting gifts]

UvTRW-7984: Heathens attack Rennewart’s country. Following his call for help, military aid arrives from Yberne. Rennewart is unable to act, as he grieves about Alyse’s future death, but still keeps it a secret; when she reminds him of his responsibility for their child, he promises to fight the heathens.

Motif References:

P 550.1.1 (Li) Aggression: rebellion; usurpation; invasion; assault
P 557.0.3 (Li) Military aid (alliance)
F 1041.21 Reactions to excessive grief

UvTRW-8124: Rennewart’s elephant which was sent to him by Willehalm (it was forgotten by Terramer after leaving Orense) is covered with iron. Rennewart mounts it without using stirrups. His weapons are a sword and his remarkably long rod.

Motif References:

W 32 Bravery

UvTRW-8161: Rennewart holds an encouraging speech to his warriors. Kuniun of Beazar is appointed as standard-bearer (the banner shows a red-gold angel on brown background). Rennewart announces that those who do not defend the banner will be punished by death.

Motif References:

P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols – coat-of-arms
M 500 (Bm) Threats
P 550 Military affairs

UvTRW-8208: Heathen spies and kings tell their king about Rennewart’s preparations. They warn of Rennewart’s strength and deliberate on if or if not to fight. They decide to fight.

Motif References:

P 557.0.1 (Li) Council of war

UvTRW-8336: Fighting begins. Rennewart kills many heathens with his rod. Some heathens flee; many die or are forced to convert. The heathen king Pantanys kills many Christians.

Motif References:

V 301 (Li) Heathens and Christians
V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War

UvTRW-8403: After a provocative speech, Rennewart and Pantanys fight in single combat. Rennewart defeats Pantanys. The heathens flee or are killed except for those who convert.

Motif References:

P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
P 550 Military affairs
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]

UvTRW-8491: When Rennewart wants to kill Pantanys, that one begs for his life with raised hands. Rennewart gives in, but only under the condition of Pantanys’s conversion. As he wants to learn about his identity, he forces him to say his name – Pantanys’s father is king of Morocco, the highest king after Terramer. The heathens cry when realizing Pantanys’s intention to be baptized. Rennewart says that he once was a heathen himself – he killed one of his brothers on the battlefield of Alytshanz.

Motif References:

R 75 Surrendering

UvTRW-8612: The heathens are not buried; when Rennewart gives orders to bury the corpses of the Christians, those are found in marble sarcophagi that appeared miraculously on the battlefield. Rennewart gives booty to his followers and returns to Portebaliart. Alyse greets him with kisses (8720).

Motif References:

Q 147 Supernatural manifestations at death of pious person
E 800 The Corpse
F 852 Extraordinary coffin [sarkophag]
F 1099 Additional marvels

UvTRW-8743: Rennewart sends for the bishop of Portebaliart and other bishops and priests to baptize Pantanys and other heathens. They are baptized. Kuniun, Rennewart and the bishop are Pantanys’s godfathers. He is baptized Bonfet.

Motif References:

V 81 Baptism
P 122 (Bm) Archbishop and bishop
P 296.1 Godfather
V 332 Baptism of heathen

UvTRW-8813: Bonfet donates all his worldly goods, sword and land to God; he vows to donate a hospice for knights which shall be called “zuo dem swerte”. He and other baptized heathens leave. Bonfet fulfills his vow and donates the hospice.

Motif References:

V 110 Religious buildings [and institutions]
M 150 Other vows and oaths

UvTRW-8881: Alyse feels her death come. She calls for an abbot, confesses and communicates. She tells Rennewart that she is going to die soon; they take a tearful farewell.

Motif References:

V 29 Confession – miscellaneous motifs
V 39 Sacrament – miscellaneous motifs
P 210 Husband and wife
D 1812.0.1 Foreknowledge of hour of death

UvTRW-9062: Alyse dies during childbirth. The child, a son, is extremely tall (taller than a one-year-old). Rennewart mourns for Alyse. He names his child Malfer, as it was ordered by the angel Kerubin in his prophecy.

Motif References:

M 370.1 Prophecy of death fulfilled
T 584 Parturition
T 585 Precocious infant
T 596.1 Angel names child
F 611.1 Strong man’s birth

UvTRW-9125: Rennewart prays to the Virgin Mary for Alyse, Malfer and himself.

Motif References:

V 50 Prayer

UvTRW-9170: A woman tells Rennewart that Alyse’s corpse emanated a sweet smell and that angels sang at the moment of her death. Rennewart sees this as a sign of Alyse’s salvation. He laments her death again.

Motif References:

Q 147 Supernatural manifestations at death of pious person
V 234.1 Angels sing in honor of saint [pious person]
V 520 Salvation
E 821 Sweet smell from corpse
F 1099 Additional marvels

UvTRW-9246: Malfer is baptized by the bishop.

Motif References:

V 81 Baptism

UvTRW-9270: Malfer is an extremely tall baby.

Motif References:

T 615 Supernatural growth

UvTRW-9298: While Alyse is buried, Malfer is abducted from his cradle: his wet-nurse takes him with her on a merchant’s ship. When Rennewart realizes the abduction, he sends messengers to Loys to inform him about Alyse’s death, Malfer’s abduction and his own intentions to retire into a monastery. He also sends a messenger to Willehalm. He leaves.

Motif References:

R 10.3 Children abducted
P 365 Faithless servant
K 2250.1 Treacherous servant

UvTRW-9517: When Loys learns about Alyse’s death and passes on the news to his wife, the queen swoons from grief. She then begs Loys to take care of Portebaliart and to send for Willehalm for help, as the country is without seigneur. Also Willehalm and Kyburc mourn for Alyse and deplore Malfer’s abduction, as well as Rennewart’s absence, as he will be no help against heathens.

Motif References:

F 1041.21.7 Swooning from grief

UvTRW-9636: Kyburc swoons from grief and sorrow. She nearly dies.

Motif References:

F 1041.21.7 Swooning from grief

UvTRW-9694: As the twelve merchants who abducted Malfer land near Terramer’s army camp, Terramer invites them. They tell him that they have come from Yberne and offer to sell the baby Malfer. Terramer guarantees not to do them any harm.

Motif References:

Z 71.8 Formulistic number: twelve
P 431 Merchant

UvTRW-9809: To save the wet-nurse, the merchants tell Terramer a lie about how they abducted Malfer, who is of noble descent (father Rennewart, mother Alyse, who died at childbirth): they took him from his cradle when his wet-nurse was not watching. When she discovered the abduction, she followed them and was forced to come with them.

Motif References:

K 2370 Miscellaneous deceptions

UvTRW-9858: Terramer wants to inspect the child if he really is Rennewart’s son. He does not see any resemblance except for the size (he asks how many years of age he is and is astonished when he learns that he is only a few weeks old). The merchants tell him that Alyse died during childbirth and that he was baptized Malfer by the bishop (the name was given by an angel).

Motif References:

T 584 Parturition
T 596.1 Angel names child
T 615 Supernatural growth

UvTRW-9898: Terramer purchases the baby-boy Malfer: He gives 100 gold marks to each of the merchants. They leave.

Motif References:

S 221 Child sold (promised) for money [Child given as present]

UvTRW-9954: Terramer wants to give Malfer to Tybalt to educate him as a slayer of Christians. Malfer is also meant to be a hostage to get back Kyburc, Tybalt’s former wife, from Willehalm. As Tybalt does not believe Malfer to be Rennewart’s son, the merchants swear that they have told him the truth and offer that Tybalt could return with three of them to make sure about the child’s ancestry; the others shall stay behind with Terramer. Terramer refuses: the child’s precocious size is proof enough of his ancestry. The merchants leave.

Motif References:

UvTRW-10042: Terramer entrusts Malfer to Tybalt and orders him to swear to keep Malfer’s story a secret. Discussion between them: Tybalt wants to besiege Orense now, but Terramer dissuades him from this, as he wants to wait until Malfer has grown up. He advises Tybalt to take the baby with him to Kordes.

Motif References:

UvTRW-10168: Tybalt does as he is asked and takes Malfer with him to Kordes to educate him. The child is too heavy for two men, he has to be carried by four; he is heavier and taller than a six-year-old.

Motif References:

F 610.7 Strong man is so heavy that no horse can carry him all day [that can’t even be carried by two horses]

UvTRW-10198: Tybalt remembers how his wife Arabel eloped with Willehalm.

Motif References:

R 225 Elopement

UvTRW-10212: Malfer needs ten wet-nurses; he empties every breast. Tybalt gives ten pounds to each of the women so that they care for Malfer properly.

Motif References:

F 611.2.4 Strong hero suckled by seven [several] women

UvTRW-10288: In the meantime, Rennewart has arrived in the country of Prides, where he wants to enter the monastery of St Julian.

Motif References:

UvTRW-10305: When he takes a rest at a fountain, he meets two monks. They fear him, as he is so tall and fully armed. He tells them that he wants to become a monk and forces one of them to exchange clothes with him, as he needs a cowl. The peasants living nearby get armed to fight Rennewart.

Motif References:

P 426.3 Monks

UvTRW-10488: When they attack Rennewart, he says that he has to break his oath never to kill anyone again in order to defend himself. He kills many of them. They flee back into their village and close the doors.

Motif References:

M 166 Other vows about fighting
L 325.1 (Bm) Victory over superior force: one against many
F 628.2 Strong man kills men

UvTRW-10582: Rennewart’s lament and prayer.

Motif References:

V 50 Prayer

UvTRW-10676: Rennewart approaches the monastery which is situated by the sea. When the janitor says that he first has to ask the abbot for the permission to let him in, Rennewart breaks the door open, unwittingly killing the janitor, and enters the monastery.

Motif References:

N 320 Person unwittingly killed

UvTRW-10722: Rennewart joins the monks, eats all their bread, then talks to the abbot, begging him for a prebend. The abbot refuses and reproaches him for killing the janitor and for devouring all the bread. Rennewart begs him again and promises to do penance. He refers to his noble origin.

Motif References:

F 632 Mighty eater

UvTRW-10823: The abbot asks Rennewart about his ancestry and tells him that he himself is of noble origin: he once was a knight, then became a monk after his brother’s death in fight. He then became an abbot (able to read, sing and write).

Motif References:

P 56 (Bm) Knight [noble] becomes hermit
P 120 Church dignitaries

UvTRW-10932: Rennewart confesses his sins to the abbot (he killed many people) and gives reasons for his retreat from the world: the death of his wife in childbed, the abduction of his child. The abbot accepts him and instructs him in the monastic rules: praying, fasting, working, be patient and never envious, accept one’s food with gratitude. When the abbot asks Rennewart if twelve loaves of bread are enough for him, Rennewart asks for more, as well as for cheese and meat: If he does not get enough food, he becomes aggressive. The abbot consents.

Motif References:

P 16.1 King (prince) retires from world (becomes hermit [monk, pilgrim], swineherd [beggar])
T 211.5 Man becomes a hermit after his wife’s death [Becoming hermit after partner’s death]
P 426.3 Monks
F 632 Mighty eater

UvTRW-11037: When Rennewart is led into church – which is the first time in his life – he marvels at the crucifix. The abbot explains the meaning of the cross (Christ’s crucifixion as redemption of mankind) to him.

Motif References:

V 86 Sign of the Cross
Z 150 Other symbols

UvTRW-11110: Rennewart prays to Christ for his father’s, Terramer’s conversion. He promises to be a good Christian. He kisses the feet of the crucifix.

Motif References:

V 50 Prayer

UvTRW-11184: Rennewart prays to Christ to talk to him to prove his identity and power. Christ (crucifix) answers Rennewart’s prayer. He forgives all of Rennewart’s sins and tells him to fight the heathens. Rennewart decides always to wear the sign of the cross. The abbot cries because of the miracle and is very glad about the help against the heathens – ruled by King Mele – who menace the monastery. Rennewart keeps his rod with him; he sings mass loudly and falsely.

Motif References:

V 50 Prayer
V 120 Images
V 211 Christ
H 927 Tasks set by deity [God, heavenly voice, Mother Mary]
H 1573.3 Power of Christianity tested
D 1622.1 Crucifix bows [speaks] as sign of favor

UvTRW-11352: As Rennewart has not slept since Alyse’s death, he asks the abbot for the permission to sleep. He stays armed, as he killed many people and fears being killed himself. He sleeps for three days and nights. The abbot forgives him that he missed the services and tells him to take off his armor, which Rennewart refuses, as he wants to be ready in case heathens attack.

Motif References:

F 564.3.2 Person sleeps for three days and nights
J 670 Forethought in defences against others

UvTRW-11494: Heathens besiege the monastery. Rennewart defeats them. He offers to spare them if they convert to Christianity; as they refuse, they are all killed. Rennewart lives in the monastery for 14 years and defends it against heathens.

Motif References:

L 325.1 (Bm) Victory over superior force: one against many
V 335.2 (Bm) Refusal to become Christian brings death
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
P 557.0.4 (Li) Siege
F 614.10 Strong hero fights whole army alone

UvTRW-11590: Malfer’s life: Rennewart’s son was abducted (which caused Rennewart’s retreat into a monastery), then purchased by Terramer, who gave him to Tybalt for education. Malfer believes himself to be a heathen (but was in fact baptized before his abduction). He is remarkably handsome (more handsome than Baldewin of Falfunde), which is seen as an inheritance of his father. Terramer wants to enfeoff and knight him, which precocious Malfer at first refuses as he feels too weak. He promises to avenge Tybalt, who suffers because of Arabel.

Motif References:

R 10.3 Children abducted
P 16.1 King (prince) retires from world (becomes hermit [monk, pilgrim], swineherd [beggar])
S 221 Child sold (promised) for money [Child given as present]
F 575.3 Remarkably beautiful child
T 585 Precocious infant
F 611.3.2 Hero’s precocious strength

UvTRW-11738: At the age of twelve, Malfer is able to carry six men on his back.

Motif References:

F 611.3.2 Hero’s precocious strength
F 624 Mighty lifter

UvTRW-11763: Terramer wants Malfer to avenge the loss of his daughter Arabel to Willehalm as well. Tybalt repeats the accusations against Arabel: she was stolen from his side by Willehalm.

Motif References:

R 225 Elopement

UvTRW-11946: Rennewart captures the ship of the heathen Kruchan when it enters the port. It carries riches sent from King Roier of Alexandria to Terramer. Kruchan and his people surrender – they lay their heads on Rennewart’s feet. Kruchan lifts his hands to Rennewart. Rennewart says that he will spare their lives if they convert to Christianity. He gives them orders to bring the corpses to Terramer and tell him that he was their slayer. The monastery is now rich with the goods found on heathen ships.

Motif References:

R 75 Surrendering

UvTRW-12290: Kruchan and his followers arrive in the heathen country. Kruchan explains to Terramer that they were sent by Roier of Alexandria but captured by Rennewart, who has become a monk and who defeated and killed many of them. Tybalt recognizes Kruchan, as they once fought in single combat. Terramer wants to besiege Orense against Kruchan’s advice.

Motif References:

UvTRW-12506: Malfer is eager to support Terramer in combat. Terramer orders Kruchan to summon Roier of Alexandria and his four underkings. Kruchan tells him to write his letters; he tries to dissuade him from his intention to send only Malfer to war and stay at home himself, as Malfer is only a child. Kruchan leaves.

Motif References:

W 212 Eagerness for combat

UvTRW-12700: Preparation for war: Terramer’s enormous army is assembled. List of heathen kings and number of warriors they bring with them. Among them: Mach of Sarie, Terramer’s nephew (sister’s son).

Motif References:

P 551 Army
P 557.0.3 (Li) Military aid (alliance)
F 873.2 Enormous army (camp)[train]

UvTRW-12842: The heathen King Matusalas of Gschulte, a knight in the service of ladies (minneritter), one of Terramer’s underkings, has a precious and multicolored tent which has to be carried by thirty camels.

Motif References:

F 775 Extraordinary tent

UvTRW-12891: The remarkably handsome brothers Saroch and Safatin are sons of Bluome of Flur and Lurgie (their beauty could damage one’s eye).

Motif References:

F 575.2 Handsome man

UvTRW-12962: One of Terramer’s underkings is the dwarf Pelise of Palmasore, who leads an army of dwarfs.

Motif References:

F 451 Dwarf
P 551 Army
F 873 Extraordinary army

UvTRW-12989: Terramer’s speech: he wants his underkings to swear to fight under Malfer, the child. Matusalan refuses: he does not want to be anyone’s liege and fights only for love (minne). Terramer convinces him to fight with Malfer. Other kings promise their support as well. Also Tybalt joins the child, as he wants to win back Kyburc.

Motif References:

M 166 Other vows about fighting

UvTRW-13106: Malfer asks Tybalt about his, Malfer’s, ancestry: is Arabel his mother, Tybalt or Terramer his father? Tybalt tells him that he educated him like his son.

Motif References:

UvTRW-13160: Orense is besieged by Terramer’s extraordinary army (100,000.000 warriors). Willehalm sends for his friends and kinsmen for support. Terramer orders 10,000 knights to be at Malfer’s service and commends them to God Hamon. Malfer is equipped by Terramer (rod, sword and armor). Willehalm and Kyburc lament Rennewart’s absence; they would need his help.

Motif References:

P 557.0.4 (Li) Siege
F 873.2 Enormous army (camp)[train]

UvTRW-13378: Willehalm’s retainers and kin have arrived in the meantime.

Motif References:

P 557.0.3 (Li) Military aid (alliance)

UvTRW-13406: The bishop of Tolus gives an encouraging speech.

Motif References:

P 122.3 (Bm) Bishop encourages combat and wages battle

UvTRW-13478: Kyburc prays to God for help in war and for the defeat of the heathens.

Motif References:

V 50 Prayer

UvTRW-13521: Kruchan and Willehalm meet after Willehalm grants surety. Reasons for military campaign: When Kruchan wanted to bring Roier’s tribute to Terramer, the handsome Rennewart captured his ship near Prides, where he lives as a monk, killed many heathens and plundered the gold; he then sent Kruchan with the corpses to Terramer, who summoned his armies. Willehalm recognizes Kruchan: they once fought in combat. Kruchan informs him that Terramer stayed behind, only Tybalt and Malfer are there.

Motif References:

UvTRW-13752: After Willehalm’s speech to his followers, also the bishop of Tolus gives an encouraging speech: the fight against the heathens guarantees salvation; he is going to fight as well (as a lay).

Motif References:

P 122.3 (Bm) Bishop encourages combat and wages battle

UvTRW-13830: Phylippe of Munbaslier encourages the warriors as well: he refers to God’s help: the corpses of Christian warriors lie in marble sarcophagi that appeared miraculously, whereas the Saracens are disintegrated by birds and dogs.

Motif References:

Q 147 Supernatural manifestations at death of pious person
E 800 The Corpse
F 852 Extraordinary coffin [sarkophag]
F 1099 Additional marvels

UvTRW-13848: The Christians prepare for battle: they get armed and communicate, mass is sung. The bishop of Tolus again confirms that he wants to fight. He wants to be the standard-bearer. The Christians advance to the battlefield and are discouraged at the sight of the heathens’ enormous army: Willehalm says that cowardice will be punished by death.

Motif References:

V 39 Sacrament – miscellaneous motifs
V 49 Mass – miscellaneous motifs

UvTRW-14032: Willehalm attacks the heathen King Matusalan of Sigulte and jousts with him: first with lances, then with swords. Their single combat opens the furious battle during which many heathens die, but none of the Christians.

Motif References:

V 301 (Li) Heathens and Christians
V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]

UvTRW-14097: Matusalan surrenders when realizing how many men have died. Willehalm and the bishop of Tolus send him to Orense together with his army. Matusalan converts to Christianity on the threat of death. As he wants to convert his followers, Willehalm releases him, but keeps his helmet and shield as a pledge. The bishop of Tolus blesses him and commends him to Christ. Matusalan and his people leave.

Motif References:

R 75 Surrendering
V 331 Conversion to Christianity
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
P 557.2 Pledge with enemy to be kept

UvTRW-14360: When other heathen troops arrive, Willehalm attacks Tybalt. They fight in single combat; the battle starts again. The Christian knights fight ferociously and courageously.

Motif References:

P 550.2 (Li) Single combat

UvTRW-14470: Malfer participates in battle. As he is ignorant of the difference between heathens and Christians, he only kills heathens.

Motif References:

J 1738 Ignorance of religious matters

UvTRW-14483: Willehalm recognizes Malfer by his strong resemblance to Kyburc and believes him to be Rennewart’s son. He refuses to fight him and returns to town.

Motif References:

H 20 Recognition by resemblance
P 205 Refusal to fight relatives

UvTRW-14510: Tybalt reproaches Malfer with having killed so many heathens. Malfer defends himself: he thought that he would have to kill anyone in armor, as he does not know the difference between heathens and Christians. Malfer wants to conquer Orense, but Tybalt objects, as the castle is impregnable. He advises to besiege the town.

Motif References:

UvTRW-14610: As Malfer is curious to meet the glorious Willehalm and Kyburc, he sends a messenger to Kruchan to ask him to arrange a meeting with Willehalm (they embrace each other as greeting); Kruchan laughs, as he is eager to do Malfer a favor. At Tybalt’s fury against his former wife, Malfer refrains from his request.

Motif References:

UvTRW-14841: The heathen army approaches Orense. Council in Orense (Kyburc participates): Willehalm wants to fight (their salvation is guaranteed), the bishop of Tolus advises to stay inside and defend the castle – fighting would be their death. His advice is accepted. Malfer comes with his rod to the castle’s door and demands their surrender. Bishop Johan advises to send half of the knights away to save their supplies, but Kyburc says that there is enough food and drink. She advises Willehalm to search for Rennewart. The others agree.

Motif References:

P 557.0.1 (Li) Council of war

UvTRW-15017: Willehalm begs Kyburc to take care of knights and castle during his absence. She worries (lament).

Motif References:

P 60 Noble (gentle) ladies

UvTRW-15150: Though Malfer believes Orense to be impregnable, the heathens decide to besiege the castle.

Motif References:

P 557.0.4 (Li) Siege

UvTRW-15274: Willehalm takes leave from Kyburc (lays his hands in hers). The bishop of Tolus and Phylippe of Munbaslier shall take care of her, the knights and the town. He advises the warriors not to fight, puts on his armor and leaves with his horse Volatin.

Motif References:

J 670 Forethought in defences against others

UvTRW-15398: Kyburc swoons from grief when Willehalm leaves. The other ladies feed her a liquid to bring her back. Knights watch the besieging heathens from the castle’s pinnacles. The food supplies in the castle are enough for ten years. Kyburc reminds them of Willehalm’s advice not to fight.

Motif References:

F 1041.21.7 Swooning from grief

UvTRW-15536: Willehalm travels to Portebaliart, Rennewart’s former domain which he left after Alyse’s death and Malfer’s abduction. He then proceeds to Prides, to the monastery St Julian. The abbot welcomes Willehalm.

Motif References:

UvTRW-15693: When Rennewart perceives Willehalm, he stoops to prevent recognition. As he is in a cowl and kneels with his head bowed when offering food and drink, Willehalm does not recognize him. Rennewart reveals his identity when overhearing Willehalm’s lament. He says that he must not fight as a monk, but when he asks the abbot, that one gives in. They leave; Willehalm rides, Rennewart walks. Rennewart laments Alyse’s death. On their way they talk about Christian dogma (the Holy Trinity, scenes from the bible).

Motif References:

H 194 (Bm) Recognition only through direct revelation of identity
H 195 (Bm) Failure to recognize
K 1821 Disguise by changing bodily appearance

UvTRW-16395: The heathens besieging Orense believe the approaching Rennewart and Willehalm to be the devil and his child. They flee. Rennewart sinks into a swamp on their pursuit and is saved by Willehalm. Rennewart washes in a river.

Motif References:

R 220 Flights
J 1786 Man thought to be a devil or ghost

UvTRW-16484: Then they take up their search again. They take heathens prisoner, lead them to Orense, where they are received by Kyburc; they are fed and led to their beds.

Motif References:

R 5 Capture on field of battle

UvTRW-16820: Rennewart is eager to fight with Malfer; Willehalm asks the knights and the bishop for their opinion, then sends a messenger to Kruchan to ask him to act as intermediate. Kruchan agrees; Willehalm comes to meet him together with Kyburc (17031). Kruchan also meets Rennewart, who once captured his ship.

Motif References:

UvTRW-17106: The bishop of Tolus and Phylippe of Munbaslier are chosen to accompany Willehalm and Kruchan. They challenge Malfer to single combat in Rennewart’s name. Malfer accepts after deliberation with Tybalt. The meeting is to take place the following day on the field of Alytshanz; the loser shall surrender to the winner.

Motif References:

P 14.15.2 Court messenger
P 556.0.1 (Bm) Challenge to single combat [feud]

UvTRW-17273: Both sides swear to keep to the conditions of single combat: they will surrender to the victor. The messengers return to Orense. Kruchan announces the conditions of single combat: the one who is defeated and his people must convert to the victor’s faith.

Motif References:

M 166 Other vows about fighting

UvTRW-17485: Provocative addresses between Malfer and Rennewart precede the single combat.

Motif References:

P 550 Military affairs

UvTRW-17533: Single combat begins: Father and son fight ferociously with their rods. During a break they take because of exhaustion, Rennewart asks Malfer about his identity, as he is the first one to be his match as an opponent. He thinks that Malfer is of his kin, his lost son. Malfer tells him that he is Terramer’s son.

Motif References:

P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
N 731.2 Father-son combat
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]

UvTRW-17726: When Malfer finally reveals his name, Rennewart detects his ancestry to him: He, Rennewart, is Malfer’s father, Malfer thus is a Christian; Terramer is his grandfather (Rennewart’s father), Loys the father of his mother, Alyse. Malfer is enraged at Terramer and Tybalt.

Motif References:

H 11.1.4 Recognition by tracing ancestry
H 151.10 Combat of unknown brothers [relatives, unrecognized friends] brings about recognition

UvTRW-17804: Rennewart tells his story: after a bloody quarrel with one of his brothers he fled from his master’s rod. He was deceived into mounting a ship by Christians because of his beauty and taken to king Loys’s court. There, he had to do menial service in the kitchen and was mistreated by the pages, as they believed him to be stupid. He was black as a moor from soot. Then, he fell in love with the king’s daughter Alyse. When Willehalm took him with him, he had to leave her.

Motif References:

R 10.3 Children abducted
T 23 (Bm) Childhood sweethearts
T 31.1 Lovers’ meeting: Hero in service of lady’s father
T 91.6.4 Princess falls in love with lowly boy
L 113.1.2 Stable [kitchen]-boy as hero
L 131 Hearth abode of unpromising hero (heroine)
R 213 Escape from home
S 221 Child sold (promised) for money [Child given as present]
F 575.3 Remarkably beautiful child
K 710 Victim enticed into voluntary captivity or helplessness

UvTRW-17914: Malfer is glad to be a Christian. He is received by Rennewart’s followers and attempts to convert his followers to Christianity. Bishop Johann supports him and grants indulgence.

Motif References:

UvTRW-18210: Many heathens convert and are baptized by bishop Johan after confession. The others will have to die. Malfer proposes to fight and kill them under equal conditions: both sides armed and with weapons, but then refrains from this plan, as they are related to Rennewart and have come with him; he wants to send them back.

Motif References:

V 331 Conversion to Christianity
V 332 Baptism of heathen

UvTRW-18392: So, the heathens give surety never to come back to Provence. Tybalt accuses Malfer of having betrayed his kin, as he now can not take over Terramer’s lands and power. As Malfer gets very angry, Tybalt and his followers flee to their ships.

Motif References:

M 168 Vow not to devastate country or take revenge after release

UvTRW-18594: Matusalan, a heathen king, and nine other kings convert to Christianity and are baptized. Malfer is their godfather. They leave. Terramer is angry with Tybalt, who in his opinion did not take care of Malfer properly, but then, when he learns that ten kings have converted, he is calmed.

Motif References:

P 296.1 Godfather
V 331 Conversion to Christianity
V 332 Baptism of heathen

UvTRW-18936: Kyburc greets Malfer in a friendly way (kisses him). He washes off dirt and changes his clothes. Ladies fall in love with him, as he is extremely handsome.

Motif References:

F 575.2 Handsome man

UvTRW-19012: Rennewart and Malfer eat and drink together (Kyburc serves them); Rennewart swears never to fight with his son again.

Motif References:

M 166 Other vows about fighting

UvTRW-19081: As Malfer wants to become a knight in service of the ladies, he asks one of them if he might enter her service. She refuses.

Motif References:

P 52.2 (Li) Knight in service of a lady

UvTRW-19150: Malfer is afflicted with love-sickness: he turns pale and red, green and yellow. Also his lady has fallen in love with him. Later, he forgets her: out of sight, out of mind.

Motif References:

T 15 Love at first sight
T 24.5 Boy [girl] turns red and white from love

UvTRW-19322: Meanwhile, the knights want to take leave from Willehalm. They promise help in case the heathens return. Malfer begs them to stay until he has learned the profession of his faith from bishop Johan. Then, knights and bishop Johan bow over Willehalm’s feet; they ask Kyburc for her blessing and leave. Only Rennewart and Malfer stay behind.

Motif References:

M 166 Other vows about fighting
V 380 Religious beliefs – miscellaneous

UvTRW-19536: Rennewart wants to return to the monastery. He begs Willehalm to help him win back Portebaliart, which he believes to be in enemy’s hands, for Malfer, but Willehalm assures him that Loys has taken care of the country. He promises help in case of danger and escort to grant royal entry.

Motif References:

UvTRW-19668: Rennewart entrusts Malfer with Portebaliart; he wants to return to his monastery to find redemption. Kyburc laments her brother’s and nephew’s leaving. She thinks that she will not see her brother again. Rennewart kisses her goodbye, and Willehalm tries to calm her. He kisses her goodbye as well and accompanies Rennewart and Malfer to Portebaliart.

Motif References:

P 17.0.2 Son succeeds father as king

UvTRW-19801: Rennewart is recognized by the nobles. He makes Malfer known to his godfather, the bishop of Portebaliart. Malfer is recognized by the nobles and his godfather as well and accepted as a ruler. Messengers are sent to Munleun to inform the king.

Motif References:

P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]

UvTRW-19873: Rennewart officially names Malfer as his successor. He then announces that he will leave for Prides and refuses any accompaniment.

Motif References:

P 16.1.4 Father abdicates in favor of son
P 17.0.2 Son succeeds father as king

UvTRW-19978: Rennewart gives an account of the events: he fought his unknown son Malfer in single combat and recognized him when they talked about their ancestry and Malfer revealed his name to him. Rennewart believed Malfer to be of his kin, as he was his match in fight. So, Rennewart refused to fight his son; their reconciliation followed. Rennewart lives again according to the monastic rules.

Motif References:

H 11.1.4 Recognition by tracing ancestry
H 151.10 Combat of unknown brothers [relatives, unrecognized friends] brings about recognition
P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
N 731.2 Father-son combat

UvTRW-20060: Loys is informed about the events by Willehalm’s messengers; he is eager to meet Malfer. In the meantime, Willehalm returns to Orense. He fears Terramer’s attack. Terramer and Tybalt discuss summoning the army again; Tybalt tries to dissuade Terramer from doing so, as the Christians will be victorious anyway.

Motif References:

UvTRW-20452: Terramer summons his army.

Motif References:

P 551 Army

UvTRW-20470: Baldewin learns about Terramer’s intentions and warns Willehalm: Terramer also wants to send an army of giants, led by Kyron of Lacedemon. At this news, Kyburc swoons with grief and nearly dies.

Motif References:

F 531.6.9 Giants as warriors (in army)
P 551 Army
F 873 Extraordinary army
F 1041.17.2 (Bm) Swoon from fear

UvTRW-20556: Kyburc prays to the Virgin Mary and to God for help against the heathens.

Motif References:

V 50 Prayer

UvTRW-20568: Willehalm asks Kyburc for advice: he wants to get help from his father, his brothers, Malfer and Rennewart; Kyburc advises him to go first to Naribon, to his father, who shall call for Willehalm’s brothers, then to Munleun to king Loys, then to the French nobles (referring to their oath of support). Willehalm wants to go to Portebaliart first, then to Prides, to ask for Rennewart’s help (although the abbot might object), then to Naribon, then to his six brothers, then to Loys.

Motif References:

UvTRW-20707: Willehalm sends the messenger Kavasar to Baldewin to ask him for support.

Motif References:

P 14.15.2 Court messenger

UvTRW-20832: Baldewin guarantees help.

Motif References:

P 557.0.3 (Li) Military aid (alliance)

UvTRW-20902: Willehalm takes a tearful farewell from Kyburc; on her advice, he takes a suite with him (as it is convenient for a seigneur). He travels to Portebaliart, where he meets Malfer and Loys; he tells them about giants in Kyron’s army. He begs Loys for help.

Motif References:

UvTRW-21100: Loys grants military aid. Willehalm’s sister, the queen, promises financial support for the warriors. Malfer advises him to ask Rennewart for help as well; the moment Willehalm is about to leave for Naribon, a messenger announces Heymrich’s arrival. The queen comes hurrying in a way not very ladylike and greets the guests with kisses (21231). Heymrich and Willehalm’s brothers (Berhtram, count Palatine, Arnalt of Gerunde, Buobe of Kummarzi, Bernhart, Gillebert) promise help as well.

Motif References:

P 557.0.3 (Li) Military aid (alliance)

UvTRW-21451: Loys recruits troops for the war against the heathens; he summons his princes to the army-meeting on the Bandit plain; also Heymrich and his sons send for their followers.

Motif References:

P 551 Army

UvTRW-21470: Willehalm goes to St Julian. He begs Rennewart for help in the war against the heathens. Rennewart gets the abbot’s permission. They leave for Orense. In the meantime, Terramer has summoned an enormous army.

Motif References:

UvTRW-21726: In Terramer’s army are many warriors who swore never to serve Malfer again. Both armies – Christian as well as heathen – are enormous.

Motif References:

F 873.2 Enormous army (camp)[train]

UvTRW-21877: Terramer divides his army in three troops.

Motif References:

P 552 Battle formations

UvTRW-21886: There are giants in the army of king Kyron of Lacedemon.

Motif References:

F 531.6.9 Giants as warriors (in army)
P 551 Army
F 873 Extraordinary army

UvTRW-21904: Terramer’s and Tybalt’s deceptive plan to kill Willehalm: they send a messenger who pretends to have come from Hemereiz, her son from her first marriage, to ask her for a meeting. Maryote finds Willehalm sleeping in Kyburc’s lap while she sews a little tent. Kyburc agrees to the meeting. At night, Terramer, Tybalt and some other kings enter Willehalm’s tent; he sleeps in Kyburc’s lap; they tear her by her hair, but Willehalm chases them away; he kills two of the kings, as his sword lies beside the bed. Terramer flees.

Motif References:

T 299.1 Sleeping with head laid in wife’s lap as sign of tenderness
P 557.0.2 (Li) Spy. Messenger
K 2370 Miscellaneous deceptions

UvTRW-22030: Kyburc sends the corpses of the killed kings to Hemereiz with a message that Terramer and Tybalt made an attempt to kill her, misusing his name. Hemereiz is furious at Terramer and his father. He threatens to convert to Christianity. He decides to explain everything to his mother and sends – despite Terramer’s and Tybalt’s efforts to dissuade him from doing so – a message to her.

Motif References:

UvTRW-22309: Willehalm gives orders that the Christian warriors wear the sign of the cross attached to their clothes as a sign of identification. Discussion on who shall be the standard-bearer: Loys wants Heymrich, but Willehalm objects: this would offend the younger ones, so Heymrich proposes Baldewin, Malfer and Rennewart.

Motif References:

V 86 Sign of the Cross
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols – coat-of-arms
H 120 Identification by tokens – miscellaneous
P 551 Army

UvTRW-22368: Willehalm raises a scouting party: he and his six brothers with ten men each, the kings of Spain, Arragun and Yberne. They depart by night and clandestinely enter Terramer’s camp.

Motif References:

P 557.0.2 (Li) Spy. Messenger

UvTRW-22561: Fighting begins: They attack the giants of Kyron of Lacedemon; when Terramer realizes this, he flees from his tent to his army. The Christians kill many heathens. At dawn, the heathen warriors wake up and become aware of what the Christians have done. The Christians retreat without fleeing, but the heathens follow them; the fight is taken up again, and also Loys and his army take part in the furious battle. Heymrich takes over the banner.

Motif References:

R 220 Flights
V 301 (Li) Heathens and Christians
V 350 Conflicts between religions
F 531.6.12.6 Giant slain by man
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
F 628.2.3 Strong man kills giant
F 628.2 Strong man kills men
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]
K 2369 Military strategy – miscellaneous

UvTRW-22784: Rennewart and Malfer kill many heathens. Heathen and Christian princes fight in single combats. Sparks fly from sword-blows.

Motif References:

P 550.2 (Li) Single combat

UvTRW-22832: Malfer attacks Terramer and reproaches him with his lies and with educating him as a heathen. Terramer agrees to leave under the condition that Malfer defeats four giants in fight. Heathen corpses cover the soil.

Motif References:

P 291 Grandfather [and grandson]
H 1166.1 Task: wrestling etc. with giant warrior

UvTRW-22896: The Christians are buried in marble sarcophagi that appear miraculously, the heathen corpses are devoured by dogs.

Motif References:

Q 147 Supernatural manifestations at death of pious person
E 800 The Corpse
F 852 Extraordinary coffin [sarkophag]
F 1099 Additional marvels

UvTRW-22930: The heathen King Meliach of Malachar kills many Christians, then is killed by Malfer. Most heathens are killed. When Terramer learns about the news, blood shoots out of his nose. Fighting continues the following day.

Motif References:

F 1041 Extraordinary physical reactions of persons

UvTRW-23285: The battlefield and the river Larkant are reddened with blood. The earth is covered with corpses.

Motif References:

F 1084.1 Deep streams of blood flow during battle

UvTRW-23318: Rennewart, Malfer and Baldewin fight four giants: Malfer and Baldewin each kill one of them, then Willehalm and his brothers join them: Willehalm kills one, Rennewart the last one. Heymrich is very glad; also he and Loys kill many heathens.

Motif References:

L 325 (Bm) Victory over superior force
F 531.6.12.6 Giant slain by man
F 531.6.9 Giants as warriors (in army)
F 628.2.3 Strong man kills giant

UvTRW-23433: Description of Berunzal, the polychromatic horse (brown, red, black and light) of the heathen King Ignoledoch of Trazense. His war-cry is “zu Trazense”.

Motif References:

P 557 Military customs
B 731.2.1 Horse with crimson mane and green legs [Polychromatic horse]

UvTRW-23493: Willehalm fights Ignoledoch in a long and exhausting single combat (they fight first with lances, then with swords); a prayer strengthens him again, and he finally kills his opponent. Also all of his army are killed. Willehalm is seriously wounded by Ignoledoch; he returns to Heymrich and praises his opponent’s worth and courage. Terramer mourns for Ignoledoch, but then returns into battle. Many heathens and Christians are killed.

Motif References:

V 50 Prayer
V 59 Prayers answered – miscellaneous
P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]

UvTRW-23726: Hemereiz, Kyburc’s and Tybalt’s son, fights with Loys, but is captured by Willehalm. He lets him live, as he is Kyburc’s son. Heymrich fights with Tybalt, who is then captured by Bertram, who leads him from the battlefield by the helmet. He surrenders to Heymrich and begs him for protection.

Motif References:

R 5 Capture on field of battle
R 75 Surrendering
P 205 Refusal to fight relatives

UvTRW-23805: Terramer flees to the shore. Kampis of India advises to fight. Terramer prepares to return to his home country.

Motif References:

R 220 Flights

UvTRW-23865: The battle ends. The corpses emit a terrible smell. Terramer gets on board the ship and rows by himself. He returns home.

Motif References:

P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]

UvTRW-23904: Malfer, Rennewart and Baldewin pursue him and ask for deliberation, during which Rennewart tries to convert his father to Christianity; Terramer refuses. Rennewart brings his sons to him.

Motif References:

R 260 Pursuits
V 350 Conflicts between religions

UvTRW-24059: Only Hemereiz was brought to his mother, Kyburc, to Orense; she dresses his wounds and has a doctor look after him.

Motif References:

P 231.3 Mother-love

UvTRW-24128: On Loys’s permission, the heathens gather wounded noble warriors and have them looked after by doctors. Dead kings are brought on ships, embalmed with herbs and wrapped in precious fabrics. 300 kings were killed in the war.

Motif References:

V 69 Funeral rites – miscellaneous
P 683 (Bm) Embalming

UvTRW-24230: Rennewart tries to persuade Terramer to meet with Kyburc; he promises Tybalt’s liberation in exchange. Terramer refuses. His sons beg him not to leave Tybalt behind and also to take Hemereiz with him. Terramer refuses again: he does not care for Tybalt, as he caused the war. When Morguweiz threatens with his and Hemereiz’ conversion, Terramer begs Loys and Willehalm – with Malfer’s support – for Tybalt’s liberation and permission to take Hemereiz with them. Loys gives in.

Motif References:

UvTRW-24530: Terramer forgives Kyburc that she converted to Christianity and swears by Tervigant not to threaten Christians anymore. He refuses conversion even though Malfer tries to convince him. Terramer says that if he breaks his oath, he wants to drown in the sea or be punished in a way that is not worthy of a king (like being broken on the wheel or being burnt).

Motif References:

M 166 Other vows about fighting
V 350 Conflicts between religions

UvTRW-24758: The heathen king Passiguweiz, one of Rennewart’s brothers, confesses that he is in love with a Christian lady, Loys’s niece Kassine; he would convert to Christianity if she wanted him to. Rennewart advises him to forget her, as her father, the king of Spain, loves her so much that he would only give her a to a man who lives nearby.

Motif References:

T 29 Falling in love – miscellaneous
T 50.2 King likes his daughter so much that he does not wish to marry her to anyone

UvTRW-24873: Passiguweiz confesses his love to Kassine. She refuses him because of the religious difference and because of the difference of age, as Passiguweiz is too old for her. She leaves the decision to Loys, the king.

Motif References:

T 57 Declaration of love
T 75 Man scorned by his beloved
T 91.4 Age and youth in love
V 301 (Li) Heathens and Christians

UvTRW-24981: Tybalt is liberated; he, Hemereiz and the other heathens leave. Kyburc embraces them when they take leave.

Motif References:

R 9.10 (Bm) Release from captivity

UvTRW-25042: Passiguweiz takes leave from Kassine; he suffers as if he would die.

Motif References:

T 24.1 Love-sickness

UvTRW-25124: Terramer vows never to threaten Christianity again. When Tybalt reproaches Malfer with having killed so many heathens although he was educated by him, Tybalt, Terramer defends Malfer.

Motif References:

M 166 Other vows about fighting

UvTRW-25214: Rennewart and Malfer return to Orense, where they are received by Willehalm and Kyburc. Rennewart has the intention to leave for St Julian, Malfer for Portebaliart. Loys comes to Orense as well and begs Rennewart to give leave to his warriors; Rennewart divides the booty, but the warriors refuse: their only reward shall be paradise – Willehalm thanks them by falling at their feet. Loys blesses the departing warriors.

Motif References:

UvTRW-25349: When the queen takes leave from Malfer and Rennewart, she tells Malfer that he will be Loys’s successor after his death, as he is their grandson. Rennewart finally leaves for St Julian, Malfer for Portebaliart. Also Heymrich takes leave. Tearful farewell.

Motif References:

P 17 Succession to the throne

UvTRW-25506: Rennewart goes to Averne and is received by the abbot and the monks. He gives an account of the events of Alytshantz. He will never again wear armor. He gets food and drink, and then sleeps for a long time. He lives according to the monastic rules.

Motif References:

UvTRW-25624: After three years of monastic life, Rennewart dies. He goes to paradise.

Motif References:

Z 292 Death of hero [heroine]

UvTRW-25632: Ulrich says that a knight, Johannes, told him that he saw Rennewart’s rod, which is five fathoms long.

Motif References:

F 835.2 Remarkably large club [pole]

UvTRW-25680: Willehalm and Kyburc lament Heymrich’s and Irmenschart’s death. Kyburc reproaches Willehalm with his immoderate behavior.

Motif References:

UvTRW-25831: Two years later, Willehalm and Kyburc mourn for Rennewart, as Malfer announces his death: An angel was sent by God to Rennewart to tell him that he is redeemed from his sins. Kyburc mourns for him till her death.

Motif References:

A 165.2.3 Angels as God’s messengers
A 182.3 God (angel) speaks to mortal
V 235 Mortal visited by angel
V 520 Salvation
E 754 Saved souls

UvTRW-25880: Willehalm’s brothers also die. Willehalm laments them immoderately, until Kyburc tells him to behave properly. They lead a pious and moderate life.

Motif References:

UvTRW-26047: Malfer is more successful than Rennewart. He conquers 23 countries and makes them tributary. When he decides to leave in order to get married, to conquer Terramer’s countries and convert heathens, he sends for his princes, as he wants to choose a regent during his absence. One of them tries to dissuade him, as Malfer will soon inherit the Roman crown from Loys.

Motif References:

P 13 Customs connected with kings
P 193 (Bm) Guardian [regent]
P 550.1.1 (Li) Aggression: rebellion; usurpation; invasion; assault

UvTRW-26321: An army meeting takes place. Sack and rope are hoisted as a military symbol. People lament Malfer’s departure; he blesses them and goes on board the ship with his followers.

Motif References:

Z 150 Other symbols
P 550 Military affairs

UvTRW-26376: Malfer arrives in Falfunde, where he is received by Baldewin. Malfer tells him about a miracle: heavenly signs appeared at Rennewart’s grave, about Heymrich’s and Irmenschart’s death and about Willehalm’s and Kyburc’s mourning. He then begs him for support against Terramer: he wants to conquer his countries and avenge Tybalt’s insults. Baldewin promises support.

Motif References:

V 113.0.1 Miracles at shrine [heroes’ grave]
V 153 (Hi) Heroes’ grave
Z 200 Heroes

UvTRW-26480: Baldewin summons his army. They leave for Baldag, Terramer’s country. Terramer is very fearful; he thinks that Malfer wants to avenge Tybalt’s unjust insults. Against Tybalt’s advice, who wants to fight, Terramer sends messengers. Malfer refuses a peaceful solution; he wants to avenge Tybalt’s insults and to conquer Terramer’s countries. Terramer and Tybalt decide to fight; Tybalt is eager for combat.

Motif References:

W 212 Eagerness for combat
P 550.1.1 (Li) Aggression: rebellion; usurpation; invasion; assault
P 557.0.3 (Li) Military aid (alliance)

UvTRW-26707: Malfer bangs at the door of Baldag with his rod. The warriors get armed and fight the Christians; though their number is superior, no Christians, but many heathens are killed. Tybalt and Terramer avoid fighting with Malfer and Baldewin.

Motif References:

V 301 (Li) Heathens and Christians
L 325 (Bm) Victory over superior force
V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]

UvTRW-26744: Terramer surrenders to Malfer: he promises lands to his grandchild, as well as to Baldewin, who is the son of his sister, if they let him live. Malfer gives in: Terramer has to give surety to hand over his lands to Malfer the following day in the presence of the princes. However, this offer of peace does not extend to Tybalt: Malfer wants to kill him.

Motif References:

R 75 Surrendering
P 559 (Li) Peace: making and conditions of peace (ransom, reparations, submission)

UvTRW-26838: Tybalt flees, Malfer follows him, but does not find him. Terramer returns to Baldag.

Motif References:

R 220 Flights

UvTRW-26872: The warriors of Baldewin’s army are buried in precious marble sarcophagi. Of Malfer’s army, nobody has died.

Motif References:

V 69 Funeral rites – miscellaneous

UvTRW-26887: Malfer and Baldewin go to Baldag and remind Terramer of his promise to submit and assign his countries to Malfer. Terramer’s sons refuse, and Matribuleiz offers combat; Baldewin makes a menacing gesture with his rod, and many heathens flee. Terramer offers many lands to Malfer and Baldewin, as he rather wants to die than to convert to Christianity; he informs his vassals about the events and conditions of peace.

Motif References:

UvTRW-26965: Terramer tells his retainers about the events (Matribuleiz’ offer of combat, Malfer’s rage, heathens’ flight etc.) and informs them about the conditions of peace.

Motif References:

UvTRW-27074: Terramer falls at Malfer’s feet and begs him to accept his submission and the excuse for Tybalt’s insults; he begs for maintenance, as he is now without good or land. Other heathen kings kneel as well. Malfer ends their humiliation: He grants support for Terramer and again tries to convert him to Christianity. But Terramer refuses. Malfer gives him his countries back and grants usufruct of agri- and viniculture. Malfer plans to conquer the country of King Faufaserat of Morocco; Matribuleiz tries to dissuade him from this.

Motif References:

W 11.5 Generosity toward enemy
V 335 (Bm) Refusal to change religion
V 350 Conflicts between religions

UvTRW-27225: Baldewin guarantees support against the king of Morocco, as well as Terramer, who also asks his underkings. An army-meeting is to take place in four weeks’ time, on the plain of Astareige. Malfer refuses Terramer’s and other heathens’ help.\ X0D\ X0A

Motif References:

P 557.0.3 (Li) Military aid (alliance)

UvTRW-27332: Malfer and his warriors leave for Morocco; in his army are many heathens who once converted on his or Rennewart’s request. Malfer tells Faufaserat’s messengers that he wants to conquer the countries, as he did with those belonging to Terramer, or convert them to Christianity. The messenger (Michar) warns Faufaserat of the extremely strong and handsome Malfer, whom the king recognizes by name as Rennewart’s son. Faufaserat decides to fight.

Motif References:

P 14.15.2 Court messenger
P 550.1.1 (Li) Aggression: rebellion; usurpation; invasion; assault
P 556 Challenge to battle

UvTRW-27495: The battle starts.

Motif References:

V 301 (Li) Heathens and Christians
V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War

UvTRW-27521: The sign of the cross is attached to the shields of Christians.

Motif References:

V 86 Sign of the Cross
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols – coat-of-arms

UvTRW-27540: The heathens retreat, so the Christians make booty without fighting; Malfer would like to kill the captured heathens, but Baldewin begs him to let them live.

Motif References:

UvTRW-27563: Faufaserat kills many Christians; on his way back, he is knocked down by Baldewin and captured by Malfer together with his warriors.

Motif References:

R 5 Capture on field of battle
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]

UvTRW-27612: When Faufaserat regains conscience, he praises God, who is mightier than Tervigant; he wants to convert. Malfer offers to spare him in case he does so. Baldewin tells him his story – he was once a heathen and converted to Christianity after fights with Rennewart. Faufaserat gives surety to come to Astarat, where the army meeting with Terramer’s army is to take place.

Motif References:

M 150 Other vows and oaths

UvTRW-27876: Army meeting in Astarat. Faufaserat offers to accept Malfer as his seigneur, but Malfer wants him to convert; he menaces him with death or expropriation. Faufaserat refuses, as he wants his children to inherit everything; his heir is King Gamelerot. He wants to stay a heathen as well and begs other kings for support. He offers his daughter Bearosine as a bride to Malfer and praises her beauty. Terramer recommends marriage with her to Malfer. Malfer still insists on the conversion: conversion or death.

Motif References:

V 335 (Bm) Refusal to change religion
V 350 Conflicts between religions

UvTRW-28030: King Gamelerot and his warriors come without armor; he dismounts his horse and is met by Malfer. Gamelerot falls at Malfer’s feet and begs him to be indulgent towards his father; he offers Faufaserat’s countries to him and convinces his father who fears poverty which means losing his honor, that this is the best solution to save his live. Malfer becomes their seigneur.

Motif References:

P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
R 75 Surrendering

UvTRW-28206: Pategorast renounces from heathendom. He becomes Malfer’s vassal and is baptized by bishop Andreas of Falfunde.

Motif References:

P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
V 331 Conversion to Christianity
V 332 Baptism of heathen

UvTRW-28284: Gamelerot decides to convert to Christianity as well. Faufaserat and also some of his underkings join him. Malfer takes away goods and lands from those who refuse to convert.

Motif References:

Q 595 Loss or destruction of property as punishment

UvTRW-28392: Malfer returns lands and goods to Terramer, who has to vow never again to do any harm to Christianity and Willehalm and to take care of Tybalt. The kings thank Malfer.

Motif References:

W 11.5 Generosity toward enemy
M 168 Vow not to devastate country or take revenge after release

UvTRW-28434: Malfer says that the voice of the angel Kerubin told him in his sleep that Gamelerot will stay faithful to Christianity and Faufaserat a heathen; so, he does not mind if Faufaserat does not convert. The angel also prophesied that not Bearosine is his future wife, but Penteselie of Asia. He now has to leave on a quest for his future wife. Faufaserat confirms that he will stay a heathen.

Motif References:

T 22 Predestined lovers
A 165.2.3 Angels as God’s messengers
A 182.3 God (angel) speaks to mortal
M 301.10 Angels as prophets
M 369 Miscellaneous prophecies
M 369.2.1 Future wife (husband) foretold

UvTRW-28539: Bishop Andreas baptizes Gamelerot and many of his followers. Malfer, Baldewin and the bishop are Gamelerot’s godfathers. Malfer gives him Faufaserat’s countries as a present, but when he asks him to repudiate his father, that one refuses. He wants to convince his sister Bearosine to convert and marry a Christian; Malfer proposes the heathen Passiguweiz, whom he wants to convert. Faufaserat agrees; he wants to give his daughter four countries as a dowry. Passiguweiz agrees.

Motif References:

W 34 Loyalty
V 81 Baptism
P 233 Father and son
P 296.1 Godfather
V 332 Baptism of heathen

UvTRW-28884: Passiguweiz is baptized; Gamelerot, Gafelerat and bishop Andreas are his godfathers.

Motif References:

P 296.1 Godfather
V 332 Baptism of heathen

UvTRW-28918: Malfer wants to depart on quest for Penteselie; he only wants to take those men with him who came from Portebaliart. He asks Terramer to accompany Baldewin to his home country.

Motif References:

UvTRW-28972: Reconciliation by kiss between Malfer and Tybalt on heathen’s mediation. The warriors leave for their home countries; only Malfer, Gamelerot, Passiguweiz – who commends his countries to his father Terramer – and Faufaserat go to Morocco to meet Bearosine.

Motif References:

UvTRW-29084: There, they are met by many nobles and greeted with kisses by the remarkably beautiful Bearosine.

Motif References:

F 575.1 Remarkably beautiful woman

UvTRW-29146: On Gamelerot’s suggestion, Bearosine decides to convert to Christianity. He also tells her about the marriage plans. She agrees; Gamelerot then asks Malfer to arrange a baptism. She has three godfathers.

Motif References:

T 53 Matchmakers

UvTRW-29286: Baptism ceremony: Bearosine undresses except for a shirt; she renounces heathendom and confesses her new faith. Bishop Stephan baptizes her; then she is dressed in precious garments; she is very beautiful. Other ladies are baptized as well.

Motif References:

V 81 Baptism
V 331 Conversion to Christianity
V 332 Baptism of heathen
F 575.1 Remarkably beautiful woman

UvTRW-29349: Betrothal between Passiguweiz and Bearosine: Gamelerot instructs his sister on love: there are three kinds of love, and she shall aspire to find everlasting love. Then he asks first Passiguweiz, then his sister for their consent. As both agree, they are married. Wedding night.

Motif References:

T 61.4 Betrothal ceremony
T 135 Wedding ceremony
T 160 Consummation of marriage

UvTRW-29619: Many ladies lament Malfer’s and Gamelerot’s departure (Malfer wants to search for his foretold wife); Bearosine swoons from grief. Gamelerot blesses everyone at court and takes leave from his father.

Motif References:

P 253 Sister and brother
F 1041.21.7 Swooning from grief

UvTRW-29700: During their journey, Malfer gets love-sick for the queen of Ephesus (Penteselie): he is weak and pale. Malfer obeys his followers’ advice – the army will not be strong enough if he leaves them – and overcomes his weakness.

Motif References:

T 11 Falling in love with person never seen
T 24.1 Love-sickness
H 1381.3.1 Quest for bride

UvTRW-29846: King Kafagant tells Malfer that they now have to cross Kappadocia, the country of the very courageous King Thachalaz. Malfer is eager to fight him.

Motif References:

P 550.1.1 (Li) Aggression: rebellion; usurpation; invasion; assault

UvTRW-29885: Thachalaz sends messengers. They praise Malfer’s beauty and describe his rod which is so heavy and long that it has to be carried by a cart. Thachalaz prepares for a fight. Karkar of Pentenyse is the standard-bearer.

Motif References:

F 835.2.1 Iron club [pole] so heavy that five [several] men can hardly lift it

UvTRW-30008: Malfer encourages his combatants. The Christian warriors wear the sign of the cross attached to shield and gown as sign of identification.

Motif References:

V 86 Sign of the Cross
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols – coat-of-arms
H 120 Identification by tokens – miscellaneous
P 551 Army

UvTRW-30026: Fight between Malfer’s and Thachalaz’ armies. Malfer fights furiously; if Christians did not have cross as sign of identification, he would have killed many of them.

Motif References:

V 301 (Li) Heathens and Christians
V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]

UvTRW-30078: Gamelerot remembers that he once was a heathen as well; he believes that all people are equally God’s creatures. He proposes to ask Thachalaz if he wants to convert to save the lives of the heathens.

Motif References:

UvTRW-30110: Thachalaz refuses conversion, but decides to surrender to Malfer and accept him as seigneur. Gamelerot praises Malfer’s kindness.

Motif References:

V 335 (Bm) Refusal to change religion
V 350 Conflicts between religions

UvTRW-30188: So Thachalaz surrenders himself and his lands and people to Malfer and accepts him as seigneur. Malfer enfeoffs him with his countries. They make peace; no Christian has died. Malfer continues his journey.

Motif References:

P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
R 75 Surrendering

UvTRW-30253: Malfer’s heavy rod and his armor are carried by a cart drawn by thirty horses.

Motif References:

F 835.2.1 Iron club [pole] so heavy that five [several] men can hardly lift it

UvTRW-30311: When Malfer reveals to Thachalaz that he wants to meet Penteselie, that one praises her beauty. Thachalaz gives them an exact description of their way to Asia, as he will not be able to accompany them.

Motif References:

F 575.1 Remarkably beautiful woman

UvTRW-30364: One of the kings ruling over the countries they have to cross is King Befamereit of Jerigente, Satragon and Regralataz. He once loved a lady, Alogare; his departure caused her death. Thachalaz laments her death, as she was a very worthy lady.

Motif References:

T 81 Death from love
F 1041.1.1 Death from broken heart

UvTRW-30404: Thachalaz tries to dissuade Malfer from crossing one of Befamereit’s countries, where the only inhabitants are giants with horn-skins. Malfer refuses. So Thachalaz describes their way: they have to cross a bridge and take the road to Jerichunt. There is a defile at Viprezel Moraste, which will be too narrow for Malfer.

Motif References:

F 531.1.6 Other bodily characteristics of giant
F 531.6.2 Haunts of giants
F 707 Extraordinary kingdom

UvTRW-30455: Malfer announces that those who desert will die.

Motif References:

M 500 (Bm) Threats

UvTRW-30467: Furious fight with a heathen army. When Malfer makes an attempt to participate in the fight, the heathens flee into the defile Vipremate Raste.

Motif References:

R 220 Flights
V 301 (Li) Heathens and Christians
V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]

UvTRW-30546: Gamelerot pursues the fleeing heathens, who escape through a door into the impregnable Vipremate Raste. A deep moat surrounds it. Malfer wrings his hands with grief.

Motif References:

UvTRW-30576: Two giant-brothers are the guardians of the castle; they are not armed, but have horn-skins. Malfer provokes them into letting the drawbridge down: he is their equal in strength and of noble birth. So Malfer enters the castle and kills both of them with his rod. Gamelerot laments that he did not help Malfer.

Motif References:

F 531.1.6 Other bodily characteristics of giant
F 531.6.12.6 Giant slain by man
F 628.2.3 Strong man kills giant
F 771.5.2 Castle guarded by giants (ogres)
K 2369 Military strategy – miscellaneous

UvTRW-30737: Two extremely tall and quite old giants, also with horn-skins, approach, a man and a woman. They are the parents of the two killed giants and mourn for their sons.

Motif References:

F 531.2.1 Extremely tall giant
F 531.1.6 Other bodily characteristics of giant
F 531.0.4 Giant woman

UvTRW-30774: Malfer attacks the male giant and kills him.

Motif References:

F 531.6.12.6 Giant slain by man
F 628.2.3 Strong man kills giant

UvTRW-30784: The giant woman attacks Malfer. They fight in single combat. Her name is Guote. When she attacks him, her eyes become flame-colored. At first, Malfer does not dare to fight her, as she is a woman, but then he finally kills her with a mighty blow on her horn-skin.

Motif References:

F 531.1.6 Other bodily characteristics of giant
F 531.6.12.6 Giant slain by man
F 531.0.4 Giant woman
P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
F 628.2.3 Strong man kills giant

UvTRW-30833: Appearance of giantess: she has green skin, an extremely large head, hair blacker than coal, a broad forehead, rough eyebrows, eyes large as the full moon, ears big as doors, a long tongue hanging out of her broad mouth. Her breasts are enormous. She has rather dark skin, thin cheeks and a long nose. She has horn-skin on her chin and long throat and ugly arms and hands. Her fingernails resemble a griffin’s claws. Her back, belly, bottom, legs and feet are of inconvenient length and size. Her vagina is larger than a bear’s skin.

Motif References:

F 531.1.3 Feet (legs) [and arms] of giant
F 531.1.6 Other bodily characteristics of giant
F 531.0.4 Giant woman
F 531.1.7.1 Green giant
F 531.1.2.0.1 Gigantic head
F 531.1.5 Breasts of giantess [wild woman]
F 531.1.6.1 Giant [wild woman] with nails like claws
F 547.5.2 Enormous vagina

UvTRW-30885: Malfer asks his warriors to set off again to Ephesus, where he shall meet his foretold wife. He wants to conquer Befamereit’s countries. He is still deeply in love with Penteselie. He sweats with desire and loses his strength.

Motif References:

T 24.1 Love-sickness

UvTRW-30946: Malfer’s army puts up his army-camp on a plain near some villages, where they get food and drink.

Motif References:

UvTRW-30998: Messengers of the heathen King Befamereit want to know how the castle Vipremate Raste was captured. Gamelerot tells them that Malfer killed the giants when they were asleep. Malfer announces that he wants to conquer Befamereit’s countries. Befamereit calls up an army and appoints Pontich of Pontichone as standard-bearer.

Motif References:

P 14.15.2 Court messenger

UvTRW-31221: Malfer is eager for combat; “Penteselie” is his war-cry. His military strategy consist of a slow and then very quick approach.

Motif References:

P 550 Military affairs
P 557 Military customs

UvTRW-31239: Furious battle between Malfer’s and Befamereit’s army. Sparks fly from sword-blows.

Motif References:

V 301 (Li) Heathens and Christians
V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]

UvTRW-31293: Single combat between Gamelerot and Befamereit (first with lances, then with swords), during which Befamereit seems to be victorious.

Motif References:

P 550.2 (Li) Single combat

UvTRW-31327: Gamelerot prays for help. God sends his messenger who gives him new strength.

Motif References:

V 50 Prayer
A 165.2.3 Angels as God’s messengers
V 201 God
V 235 Mortal visited by angel
N 817.0.1 God as helper

UvTRW-31344: When Malfer approaches, Befamereit gets fearful and surrenders to Gamelerot by handing over his sword.

Motif References:

R 75 Surrendering

UvTRW-31362: Pontich of Pontichone, the heathen standard-bearer, attacks Malfer so furiously that the banner breaks. Malfer kills many heathens until Gamelerot brings him the news of Befamereit’s surrender. The battle ends.

Motif References:

P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
F 628.2 Strong man kills men

UvTRW-31406: Befamereit asks Malfer for the permission to gather the dead warriors to transfer them home and the wounded to care for them. He laments his losses.

Motif References:

V 69 Funeral rites – miscellaneous

UvTRW-31460: Gamelerot reproaches Befamereit with his immoderate laments. He sees it as God’s sign that no Christians have died in the battle: a small army of Christians killed many heathens. Befamereit declares himself Malfer’s prisoner and promises to become Malfer’s and Gamelerot’s retainer. He says that he believed Malfer’s army to be from Melitropia because of the war-cry “Penteselie”.

Motif References:

P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
L 325 (Bm) Victory over superior force

UvTRW-31583: In his sleep, the angel Kerubin tells Malfer to depart, as the end of his journey is near. Malfer follows this order.

Motif References:

A 182.3 God (angel) speaks to mortal
V 235 Mortal visited by angel
M 301.10 Angels as prophets
H 927.2 Task assigned by angel on God’s order

UvTRW-31622: Finally they arrive at a fountain (locus amoenus: flowers and clover grow there), where 500 women rest.

Motif References:

F 112.0.1 Fairyland (Ireland) inhabited (settled) by women only
F 565.1 Amazons. Women warriors
F 707 Extraordinary kingdom

UvTRW-31655: Penteselie is a remarkably beautiful woman, as Malfer is a very handsome man. Their beauty hurts one’s eyes.

Motif References:

F 575.1 Remarkably beautiful woman
F 575.2 Handsome man

UvTRW-31683: Penteselie greets Malfer with a kiss. They take each other by the hand.

Motif References:

T 30 Lovers’ meeting

UvTRW-31731: Penteselie tells Malfer that the angel Kerubin told her on God’s order to marry him. First quarrel: on Penteselie’s suggestion to leave his army behind if he wants to come with her, Malfer refuses, then gives in as she tells him to look for a wife elsewhere.

Motif References:

T 22 Predestined lovers
A 165.2.3 Angels as God’s messengers
A 182.3 God (angel) speaks to mortal
H 927.2 Task assigned by angel on God’s order

UvTRW-31774: After an attempted rape, Penteselie takes Malfer’s hands in her hand and presses them so fiercely that he gets weak. He gives in to her conditions, as she, a weak woman, defeated him. They decide to leave; Penteselie promises many crowns to him.

Motif References:

P 63 (Bm) Lady in armor (and battle)
T 471 Rape
F 565.2 Remarkably strong women
F 565.1 Amazons. Women warriors
F 610.0.1 Remarkably strong woman

UvTRW-31872: Malfer takes leave from his followers. He gives each of them 1000 marks as reward. Gamelerot shall take care of the army. He takes only his rod and his armor with him. They go on board a ship.

Motif References:

Q 72 Loyalty rewarded
Q 111 Riches as reward

UvTRW-31966: Penteselie promises crowns and lands to Malfer; she explains to him that she is an Amazon and used to have only one breast, like her ladies. But when she learned that she was to marry Malfer, God removed the single breast and replaced them by two. As long as she is a virgin, she is of extraordinary strength. Malfer thinks for himself that he will take her by force, but tells her that he is lost to her since he first saw her. They arrive in Penteselie’s country and are welcomed by her people.

Motif References:

P 63 (Bm) Lady in armor (and battle)
V 201 God
T 300 Chastity and celibacy
F 565.2 Remarkably strong women
F 565.1.1 Amazons cut off left breast of daughters so that they can handle bow [Amazons have only one breast]
F 565.1 Amazons. Women warriors
F 610.0.1 Remarkably strong woman
N 817.0.1 God as helper
F 959 Marvelous cures – miscellaneous
D 1714.1 Magic power of chaste women
D 1749 Loss of magic power – miscellaneous
D 1830 Magic strength
D 2161.3 Magic cure of physical defect

UvTRW-32048: Malfer’s armor has to be carried by a cart drawn by 16 horses. When Penteselie makes an attempt to lift the armor, Malfer makes a cutting remark on stubborn women who always want to have their will even if it is inconvenient. Malfer lifts armor and rod on the cart.

Motif References:

F 610.4 Man with strength of many men
F 824 Extraordinary [part of] armor

UvTRW-32100: Malfer mounts his horse without using stirrups. They travel on to Ephesus.

Motif References:

W 32 Bravery

UvTRW-32114: Penteselie begs Malfer to get off his horse at the cathedral, where they are met by the bishop and Penteselie’s people. Malfer begs Penteselie to instruct him on how to behave. After mass, they leave the church hand in hand; Penteselie leads Malfer to the castle, where they take off their traveling clothes and put on precious garments.

Motif References:

V 49 Mass – miscellaneous motifs

UvTRW-32176: Then they go to the feast. Seating plan: 23 kings are honored by sitting facing Malfer. He greets them in a friendly way. 1000 young ladies are also present. They eat game, different kinds of meat and poultry, drink wine, syropel, mead and claret (no beer is served!). After the meal, they remove the tablecloths and dance.

Motif References:

P 632 Customs concerning recognition of rank
P 634 Feasts

UvTRW-32260: After the feast, Malfer and Penteselie enjoy their wedding night.

Motif References:

T 160 Consummation of marriage

UvTRW-32356: The following morning, they receive their guests. Penteselie introduces Malfer as her husband to the nobles and says that they were predestined lovers, as the angel Kerubin announced to them on God’s will. In the presence of the nobles, Penteselie takes Malfer’s hand and has him as her husband and new king enfeoff her 23 underkings with their countries. Then she turns over her own countries to him.

Motif References:

T 22 Predestined lovers
P 28 Marriage of queen
P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
A 182.3 God (angel) speaks to mortal
M 301.10 Angels as prophets

UvTRW-32433: Dinner takes place (seating plan like the day before); then, the nobles take leave.

Motif References:

P 632 Customs concerning recognition of rank

UvTRW-32480: Ulrich says that the only wedding accompaniment was the dance mentioned before, as it is not a custom to give presents or make tournaments at a wedding in this country, as it is where Ulrich lives.

Motif References:

UvTRW-32528: When Penteselie gets pregnant, she craves for crab-apple and prefers cabbage to partridge. Malfer is very glad that both their semen have mingled.

Motif References:

T 571 Unreasonable demands of pregnant women

UvTRW-32585: During a very difficult and long birth, Penteselie prays to Kerubin and reminds him of his prophecy that led to her loss of virginity and pregnancy. Kerubin answers her prayer – she gives birth to a son who is the size of a four-year-old. The child is given to a wet-nurse immediately.

Motif References:

V 50 Prayer
V 243 Angel answers mortal’s prayer
T 584 Parturition
T 585 Precocious infant
F 611.1 Strong man’s birth

UvTRW-32637: The baby Johannes is such a mighty eater that he needs more than ten nurses.

Motif References:

F 611.2.4 Strong hero suckled by seven [several] women

UvTRW-32656: Six women have to carry the baby, which Malfer is able to lift with one arm.

Motif References:

F 610.7 Strong man is so heavy that no horse can carry him all day [that can’t even be carried by two horses]

UvTRW-32685: Malfer tells Penteselie that Kerubin woke him up one night and announced to him that he would write the name the boy shall be given on his back. On the child’s back, “Johannes” is written. So the boy, who is too heavy for his three godparents (one man and two women), is baptized Johannes by the bishop.

Motif References:

V 81 Baptism
A 182.3 God (angel) speaks to mortal
V 241.4.1 Angel names child
T 596.1 Angel names child

UvTRW-32733: Johannes is twice as strong as his father.

Motif References:

Z 251 Boy hero
T 585 Precocious infant
F 611.3.2 Hero’s precocious strength

UvTRW-32738: Three kings who are curious to meet Malfer come to Melitropia. Malfer is eager to fight them.

Motif References:

W 212 Eagerness for combat

UvTRW-32778: Malfer gives Johannes an inherited armor: it is made of red gold and once belonged to Tanchanyse, who got it from the Queen Jerechie of Zolegarab as a gift of love. It was handed on over the generations, but no one was able to wear it, as it is extremely heavy. The rod that goes with it is too heavy for ten men, the helmet is unpierceable. The sword is also remarkable: it renders the opponent helpless. Johannes lifts the rod easily, puts on the armor. The following day, Malfer, Johannes and 30,000 men leave for battle.

Motif References:

T 59 (Bm) Love tokens
F 824 Extraordinary [part of] armor
F 833 Extraordinary sword
F 835.2.1 Iron club [pole] so heavy that five [several] men can hardly lift it

UvTRW-32918: When the heathens perceive Johannes, they flee, but Malfer and his son nevertheless kill many of them on their flight – they make booty without fighting. Johannes is uncertain if he is a proper warrior, as he killed so many men without really having to fight; Malfer advises him to ask his mother. They return to Ephesus.

Motif References:

R 220 Flights

UvTRW-33019: Johannes asks his mother for advice about fighting and becoming a warrior – she is afraid for him, as she loves him dearly. She puts him off until his twentieth year.

Motif References:

UvTRW-33106: Malfer goes to heaven after his death, as well as Penteselie, who dies from grief over his death. Ulrich knows nothing more about Johannes. He takes up Willehalm’s story again.

Motif References:

T 211.9.1 Wife dies of grief for death of husband
P 214.1 Wife commits suicide (dies) on death of husband
V 520 Salvation
F 1041.1.2.2 Woman dies on hearing of her husband’s [lover’s, fiancé’s] death

UvTRW-33216: Kyburc and Willehalm are very old now. One day, Kyburc falls at Willehalm’s feet under tears and asks him for a rash boon referring to everything she has done for him; when he refuses, as he wants to know her intention, she loses conscience. He reanimates her with water, and she tells him that she wants to retire into a hermitage. Willehalm refuses, as she will go to heaven anyway because of her pious life.

Motif References:

M 223 Blind promise (rash boon)
F 1041.21.7 Swooning from grief

UvTRW-33328: Kyburc reminds him of her help to escape from prison; Willehalm says that he did everything she asked for in her letters: her messengers brought him a sparrow-hawk. She wanted to convert for his sake. He fought with Tybalt, who captured him on the battlefield; she took care of him in prison and helped him to escape. Then he took his land back from Tybalt. Finally, Willehalm gives in and decides to retire to a monastery as well. He sends for his vassals and they take leave from them. Loys as their protector.

Motif References:

R 5 Capture on field of battle
P 52.2 (Li) Knight in service of a lady
T 59 (Bm) Love tokens
R 162 Rescue by captor’s daughter (wife, mother)[niece]
R 211 Escape from prison
V 331.5 Conversion to Christianity through love
N 831 Girl [woman] as helper

UvTRW-33647: A hermitage is erected for Kyburc. She gives Willehalm a belt for his undergarments (nidergurt) as a love token. The embroidered inscription says: he will fare well as long as he owns the belt. They embrace. Willehalm retires to the monastery St Julian in Prides, where Rennewart also found his peace. The abbot recognizes him because of his courage. Willehalm tells him that he is literate; he regrets that he can not become a priest as he killed too many people in Karl’s mission. The abbot shaves him. Willehalm puts on a cowl, but stays armed in case he has to defend the monastery against the heathens.

Motif References:

P 56 (Bm) Knight [noble] becomes hermit
T 59 (Bm) Love tokens
P 60 Noble (gentle) ladies
P 120 Church dignitaries
P 426.3 Monks
P 426.2 Hermit

UvTRW-33840: When the abbot begs Willehalm to serve as inn-keeper in the monastery’s tavern, he objects at first, but then gives in, as he does not want to be banned because of disobedience. After a certain time, he falls at the abbot’s feet and asks him again to discharge him from this menial task as he is too old and prefers silence to talking. The abbot gives in.

Motif References:

UvTRW-33945: The abbot learns that thieves steal wood from the monastery’s forest; Willehalm wants to hunt them down. There are nine of them who provoke him by referring to his old age and attack him. When Willehalm gets furious, his nose grows, and he kills four of them with a log, the other five try to flee, but he kills them as well.

Motif References:

L 325.1 (Bm) Victory over superior force: one against many
P 475 Robber [thief, outlaw, pirate]
P 475.2 Robbers defeated and killed
F 628.2.1 Strong man kills many men at once
F 1041.16 Extraordinary physical reaction to anger

UvTRW-34045: Willehalm returns to the monastery; the abbot grants indulgence, as he killed the men in self-defense. He cries, as he is glad that Willehalm is unhurt.

Motif References:

V 39 Sacrament – miscellaneous motifs

UvTRW-34103: Willehalm asks the abbot for the most menial service to redeem his sins; he becomes guardian of the poultry.

Motif References:

Q 523 Humiliating penances
J 910 Humility of the great

UvTRW-34159: At Kyburc’s death, Willehalm decides to become a hermit and to renounce from eating fish, cheese or bread – he wants to live on what God chooses to give him. He begs the abbot for his blessing and takes leave.

Motif References:

P 56 (Bm) Knight [noble] becomes hermit
T 211.5 Man becomes a hermit after his wife’s death [Becoming hermit after partner’s death]
Z 292 Death of hero [heroine]
P 426.2 Hermit
V 462 Asceticism

UvTRW-34240: In the woods, Willehalm makes a hut out of bark. He is nourished by a miracle: every day a white tablecloth with food and drink appears and disappears when he has eaten. Praying is his only pastime.

Motif References:

V 224.2 Food (animals) eaten by saint [pious man] magically replaced
F 851 Extraordinary food
D 1030.1 Food supplied by magic
D 2105 Provisions magically furnished

UvTRW-34309: Willehalm lives as a hermit for five years. His hair and beard grow very long and become grey. When his garments fall to pieces, he replaces them by birch-bark.

Motif References:

P 55 Wild man of noble birth
F 567 Wild man
F 821.1 Dress of extraordinary material

UvTRW-34332: When Matribuleiz, Terramer’s son, besieges Paris, Loys sends 1000 men with letters to search for Willehalm. The reward for finding him is 1000 marks. Willehalm meets one of those pages in the woods.

Motif References:

P 550.1.1 (Li) Aggression: rebellion; usurpation; invasion; assault

UvTRW-34382: The page faints with fear when perceiving the frightful Willehalm. Willehalm reads Loys’s letter which he carries in a wallet and reanimates him. He reveals his identity. The page wonders how he can be sane, as he is half-naked. Willehalm admits that he has already read the letter and promises help. As the page is hungry, he is also fed by miraculously appearing food.

Motif References:

P 50.3 (Ha) Page
V 224.2 Food (animals) eaten by saint [pious man] magically replaced
F 851 Extraordinary food
D 1030.1 Food supplied by magic
F 1041.17.2 (Bm) Swoon from fear
D 2105 Provisions magically furnished

UvTRW-34544: Willehalm prays for advice before falling asleep. In his sleep, the Messiah’s voice tells him to go to Paris. God will never leave him alone. Willehalm leaves. On his way, he treats the plants in a strange way: he raises the weeds he has trampled down, but not the “good” plants.

Motif References:

V 50 Prayer
Z 100 Symbolism
V 211 Christ
V 550 (Bm) Voice from heaven
F 966 Voices from heaven (or from the air)

UvTRW-34669: The heathens also learn about Willehalm’s arrival. Loys sends heathen messengers back without negotiations. He leaves to meet Willehalm; the page, Bomsheitis, hurries to equip Willehalm with scarlet garments, sword Tshoyse and the horse Volatin Willehalm has asked for.

Motif References:

UvTRW-34765: Loys comes to meet Willehalm; they both get off their horses when meeting. Willehalm has the intention to break his promise made to God: he wants to wage war for Loys. They return to Paris.

Motif References:

UvTRW-34825: The heathens bring tidings of Willehalm’s arrival to their king; they say that his nose grew in anger. On his council’s advice, Matribuleiz and all the heathens flee.

Motif References:

R 220 Flights
F 1041.16 Extraordinary physical reaction to anger

UvTRW-34916: The same voice as before calls Willehalm in his sleep and tells him about the heathens’ departure. The voice gives him orders to build a monastery in the woods near Muntbasiliere and spend the rest of his life there. Salvation shall be his reward.

Motif References:

V 550 (Bm) Voice from heaven
H 927 Tasks set by deity [God, heavenly voice, Mother Mary]
F 966 Voices from heaven (or from the air)

UvTRW-34991: Loys asks Willehalm about his treatment of the weeds as mentioned above: he raised the weeds he had trampled down, but not the “good” plants. Willehalm answers that this symbolized Loys’s behavior: he kept bad men in his surroundings and let the good leave. Willehalm refuses to accept his fief again, because he wants to retire to the forest near Muntbasiliere and erect a monastery sanctified to the Virgin Mary. He also refuses Loys’s help.

Motif References:

Z 100 Symbolism
H 591 Extraordinary actions explained

UvTRW-35064: Willehalm and Loys travel to Paris, where they are received by knights, ladies, poor and wealthy, then on to Kurtonie, where Willehalm meets with his sister, Loys’s wife, who mourned for him during his absence. She greets him with a kiss. He takes leave from her and travels to Muntbasiliere only accompanied by his horse Volatin.

Motif References:

P 253 Sister and brother

UvTRW-35185: In Muntbasiliere, people stare at Willehalm, as he is richly dressed and travels on his own. A man asks him his whereabouts, as he is richly clad and too old to have his horse walk briskly and with little leaps. When the town’s judge approaches, Willehalm gets angry; he says that he rides neither on a field nor destroys seeds. threatens them. The judge finally recognizes him.

Motif References:

UvTRW-35244: The judge tells Willehalm that a giant menaces Paris; he searches for the heathens who once fled from Willehalm. Loys does not know about this danger. Willehalm decides to fight the giant, whose only weapon is a rod. Many men fall at his feet and offer to accompany him.

Motif References:

F 531.4.5.1 Giant with iron club [pole] as weapon
F 531.5 Giants and men

UvTRW-35299: One day they find the giant sleeping near a fountain at Sande Clo around midday. Willehalm wakes him; he wears neither weapons nor armor; his cloak is his shield. The giant attacks him, but Willehalm escapes easily. He cuts off his opponent’s arm and finally kills him. Loys, who learns about the events afterwards, comes to meet Willehalm to thank him.

Motif References:

W 32 Bravery
F 531.6.12.6 Giant slain by man
F 628.2.3 Strong man kills giant

UvTRW-35423: On Loys’s request, Willehalm has the giant transported to Paris to make the deed public. The giant is buried. Willehalm takes leave; he leaves Volatin behind, as well as precious garments. He gets a monk’s cowl from the abbot of St Germain.

Motif References:

UvTRW-35474: Willehalm travels to Muntbasiliere and erects a hermitage there: a hut of bark, wood and stones. God nourishes him again. Loys also sends him a messenger with food and craftsmen to help him, as Willehalm’s sister wants only to be buried near her brother and so needs a proper tomb. Willehalm begs the messenger to tell Loys and the queen to send him two priests and only the most necessary goods.

Motif References:

P 56 (Bm) Knight [noble] becomes hermit
V 118 Monasteries [cloisters, abbeys, nunneries]
P 253 Sister and brother

UvTRW-35542: Two monks are sent to Willehalm; they help him build his hermitage.

Motif References:

P 426.3 Monks

UvTRW-35553: Willehalm also builds a bridge over the river. After the devil destroyed it three times, Willehalm lies in wait at night; the devil approaches in human form and destroys the bridge again. Willehalm takes him by the hair and throws him into the water. The devil cries so loudly that the river gets black with fear.

Motif References:

Z 71.1 Formulistic number: three
G 303.14.1 The devil destroys by night what is built by day
G 303.3.1 The devil in human form
G 303.25 Miscellaneous devil motifs
F 932 Extraordinary occurrences connected with rivers

UvTRW-35597: Willehalm also builds a chapel and begs the bishop of Morgolonie to consecrate it on Sunday. The bishop agrees, Willehalm thanks him by bowing over his feet. The bishop grants indulgence to the people coming there.

Motif References:

V 39 Sacrament – miscellaneous motifs
V 111 Churches
P 122 (Bm) Archbishop and bishop

UvTRW-35671: The bishop decides to stay as a hermit with Willehalm, but first has to apply for the pope’s permission. The bishop, Willehalm and the craftsmen continue building.

Motif References:

P 122.4 (Bm) Archbishop (takes refuge) as hermit in woods
P 426.2 Hermit

UvTRW-35733: In his sleep, the Virgin Mary tells Willehalm to transfer Kyburc’s bones from Termis to the chapel.

Motif References:

V 250 The Virgin Mary
H 927 Tasks set by deity [God, heavenly voice, Mother Mary]

UvTRW-35816: Willehalm and the bishop exhume Kyburc’s bones; each of them carries half of them.

Motif References:

E 800 The Corpse

UvTRW-35841: The bones emit the smell of herbs. A blind child’s dream – its blindness was cured after drinking from the bones – comes true: Willehalm pours water over the bones, the child drinks and is cured.

Motif References:

V 144.3 (Bm) (Sweet odor of) relics cure(s) sick
M 302.7 Prophecy through dreams
E 821 Sweet smell from corpse
F 952 Blindness miraculously cured
F 1099 Additional marvels
D 1810.8 Magic knowledge from dream
D 2161.3.1 Blindness magically cured

UvTRW-35872: In the chapel, Kyburc’s bones are buried in a marble coffin. Her soul went to heaven. Heavenly signs appear.

Motif References:

V 520 Salvation

UvTRW-35908: Alyse and the king take care of the monastery; more priests and monks live there. Willehalm appoints bishop Cristan as abbot.

Motif References:

P 120 Church dignitaries

UvTRW-35966: Thieves steal the monastery’s supplies (fish, wine, bread). Willehalm lays a trap for them. He travels with the provisions; when he meets them, they tear his beard and try to undress him. Willehalm says that whoever takes his precious girdle should die with the abbot’s permission and God’s help. He prays for help, tears out his mule’s shoulder and slays the robbers with it.

Motif References:

P 475 Robber [thief, outlaw, pirate]
P 475.2 Robbers defeated and killed
J 620 Forethought in prevention of others’ plans
F 628.2 Strong man kills men
P 672 Pulling a man’s beard as an insult
F 839 Other extraordinary weapons
K 2370 Miscellaneous deceptions

UvTRW-36052: Willehalm laments that he killed the mule. He prays that it may live again. He replaces the shoulder, and the animal is healed miraculously.

Motif References:

E 30 Resuscitation by arrangement of members
V 50 Prayer
V 59 Prayers answered – miscellaneous

UvTRW-36075: Willehalm returns to the monastery and recounts the events; the abbot grants indulgence for him, as it was God who fought.

Motif References:

V 39 Sacrament – miscellaneous motifs

UvTRW-36111: The queen dies; Loys brings her to the monastery. She is buried next to Kyburc. Loys donates villages to the monastery. He takes leave from Willehalm; they both cry.

Motif References:

P 29 Queens – miscellaneous
V 69 Funeral rites – miscellaneous

UvTRW-36282: Willehalm leads a pious and ascetic life – he does not eat meat, only cabbage, peas and beans – for another five years. One day, during one of his daily walks, Willehalm crosses a narrow and would have fallen into the water if he had not gripped a stone.

Motif References:

V 462 Asceticism

UvTRW-36372: A voice from heaven announces his nearing death to Willehalm. The abbot takes his confession and gives him the extreme unction.

Motif References:

V 29 Confession – miscellaneous motifs
V 39 Sacrament – miscellaneous motifs
M 341.1 Prophecy: death at (before, within) certain time
V 550 (Bm) Voice from heaven
F 966 Voices from heaven (or from the air)

UvTRW-36426: Willehalm dies. Angels carry his soul to heaven. His corpse emits a sweet odor.

Motif References:

Q 147 Supernatural manifestations at death of pious person
Q 172 Reward: admission to heaven
V 249 Angels – miscellaneous motifs
Z 292 Death of hero [heroine]
M 370.1 Prophecy of death fulfilled
V 520 Salvation
E 722.2.10 Soul taken away by God (angel)
E 754.2.2 Souls carried to heaven by angels
E 821 Sweet smell from corpse
F 1099 Additional marvels

UvTRW-36449: Willehalm as the patron of knights; epilogue.

Motif References:

Chansons de Geste

Ulrich von Türheim, Rennewart (>1243) Hübner, A. (ed.): Ulrich von Türheim, Rennewart. (=DTM 39) Berlin 1938.

Ulrich von Türheim, Rennewart (>1243)
Hübner, A. (ed.): Ulrich von Türheim, Rennewart. (=DTM 39) Berlin 1938.