Ludwigslied (881/882)
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Heroic Epic
Ludwigslied (881/882)
Schlosser, H. (ed.): Althochdeutsche Literatur. Frankfurt/Main 1980.
Ludw-1:
King Ludwig serves God sincerely, who takes care of him after he has lost his father when he was still a little child, and makes him king of the Franks. His brother Karlmann becomes his co-regent. God wants to test the young king’s leadership and punish the sinful Franks: Heathens coming over the sea attack the kingdom and many a Frank is doomed, but many obtain salvation. Thieves, deceivers, robbers, licentious persons do penance by fasting. While the king is far from his lands, the kingdom is all confused, which is due to Christ’s wrath. Yet God shows his mercy by ordering Ludwig to return and fight the Normans. Ludwig, saying that their life and death are up to God, promises to reward the warriors of his army or their families if they are killed in battle. Then the king himself leads them into battle intoning a hymn, which they all join singing “Kyrie eleison”. King Ludwig excels in battle, kills many enemies and obtains victory.
Motif References:
P 11.1 Choice of kings by divine will
Q 220 Impiety punished
P 251.5 Two brothers
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
N 817.0.1 God as helper
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