Ulrich von Liechtenstein, Frauendienst (1255)
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Heroic Epic
Ulrich von Liechtenstein, Frauendienst (1255)
Spechtler, F.(ed.): Ulrich von Liechtenstein, Frauendienst (=GAG 485). Göppingen 1987.
UvLFD-1:
Prologue (praeter rem): praise of women. Uolrîch begins the narration in the name of God and avers the truth of his tale (prologus ante rem).
Motif References:
UvLFD-8:
In his childhood, he has been taught the importance of serving noble ladies and has resolved to enter their service as soon as he reached adulthood. The boy rejoiced when someone praised the female nature.
Motif References:
UvLFD-14:
At the age of twelve, Uolrîch chooses the most beautiful and noble lady of all and serves her for four years. He falls in love with his lady despite her higher rank (she will certainly not reward him for this efforts in the way a man hopes). The youth picks flowers for his lady and drinks the water with which she has washed her hands. One day, his father transfers him to the court of Margrave Heinrîch. Though separated from his beloved, the young boy bears her always in mind.
Motif References:
T 24 The symptoms of love
T 31.0.1 (Bm) Knight places himself in would-be lady’s service
T 91.6 Noble and lowly in love
UvLFD-30:
Margrave Heinrîch is an exemplary knight and sovereign. He educates Uolrîch, who learns to make conversation with women, to ride, and to compose letters.
Motif References:
P 12 Character of kings
T 600 Care (education) of children
UvLFD-35:
Four years later, Uolrîch’s father dies and therefore the young man has to return home to Styria. Subsequently, the squire Uolrîch participates in tournaments in his lady’s honor, thus acquiring knightly skills.
Motif References:
UvLFD-39:
After three years, Uolrîch obtains knighthood during a wedding feast celebrated in Vienna. Liupolt of Austria marries his daughter to the Saxonian prince. On occasion of this feast, 250 pages receive the sword and precious gifts are bestowed upon more than 1000 knightly guests. Mounted games and dances take place. In addition, Uolrîch’s lady joins the festivities, but the young knight finds no opportunity to talk to her. A comment of hers on his knightly rank prompts him to aspire to her love.
Motif References:
P 53 (Bm) Obtaining knighthood
T 136.1 Wedding feast
P 634 Feasts
UvLFD-46:
The feast reaches its end and Uolrîch sets out to take part in various tournaments in his lady’s honor (twelve tournaments during one summer).
Motif References:
T 31.0.1 (Bm) Knight places himself in would-be lady’s service
P 52.2 (Li) Knight in service of a lady
P 561 Tournaments
H 1561.1 Tests of valor: tournament
UvLFD-48:
With the beginning of winter, Uolrîch is compelled to desist from fighting tournaments and painfully longs for his lady. There is no opportunity to get in contact with her and therefore she remains ignorant of the fact that Uolrîch serves her.
Motif References:
T 24.1 Love-sickness
UvLFD-52:
One day, Uolrîch comes to a castle where he is warmly welcomed by the host and his daughter, who are relations of his. The girl has a secret conversation with Uolrîch and inquires after the identity of his lady. She tells him that she has wondered about it during her sojourn at her mistress’s court. Not until she has sworn an oath to Uolrîch to keep the secret does Uolrîch reveal to her that his lady and her mistress are the same person. The girl tries to dissuade Uolrîch from his service since the lady is of too noble rank, but to no avail.
Motif References:
M 150 Other vows and oaths
UvLFD-63:
Uolrîch begs his relative to be his love-messenger and reveal his love to the lady. He also sends a song with her. [First minnesong, tanzwîse]
Motif References:
T 41 Communication of lovers
T 57 Declaration of love
T 99 Love – additional motifs
UvLFD-69:
Five weeks later, the girl has returned from her errand and imparts the lady’s negative reaction to Uolrîch. She would never accept his service because of his lower rank and the ugliness of his mouth. Once more, the girl tries in vain to dissuade Uolrîch from his service. Uolrîch also persists in having his mouth operated upon and persuades the girl to convey the message of the intended operation to the lady.
Motif References:
T 69 Wooing – miscellaneous motifs
T 75 Man scorned by his beloved
UvLFD-87:
Uolrîch goes to Græz in Styria and consults a physician, who agrees to do the operation in spring time. On his way to Græz again, Uolrîch meets one of his lady’s servants who offers to report the operation to the lady and to accompany Uolrîch in order to attend the surgical treatment.
Motif References:
P 424 Physician
UvLFD-94:
The surgeon operates on Uolrîch’s mouth (Uolrîch refuses to be bound and endures the pain of the operation bravely). The page who accompanied Uolrîch returns to his lady, admonished by Uolrîch to tell her only of her knight’s love, not about the surgery. Uolrîch stays in town as a convalescent for five and a half weeks, his wound being treated with a green, foul-smelling ointment. He is neither able to eat nor to drink.
Motif References:
UvLFD-105:
Having recovered, Uolrîch rides to his relative’s castle. The girl is amazed at his changed appearance and volunteers to send the tidings of Uolrîch’s operation, his steadfast love and fidelity to his mistress (she already has written a letter). Uolrîch also sends a new song with her. [Second minnesong, tanzwîse]. The lady’s benevolent reply is conveyed by a messenger to Uolrîch, who is dwelling in his castle Liehtenstein. She invites him to come and visit her.
Motif References:
T 41 Communication of lovers
UvLFD-115:
Uolrîch at his lady’s castle: he first sees her only during a mass, is then granted permission to speak to her.
Motif References:
T 30 Lovers’ meeting
V 49 Mass – miscellaneous motifs
UvLFD-121:
As Uolrîch approaches his lady, he is not able to utter a word, impeded by fear and love. (Dialogue between Uolrîch’s heart and body) Accompanying the lady on her journey, Uolrîch tries several times to address her, but fails at the decisive moment. Thus, the party of travelers reaches the lodging for the night.
Motif References:
T 24 The symptoms of love
UvLFD-132:
The lady has to be helped out of the saddle. Uolrîch volunteers to help her, but the lady makes fun of him, asserting that he is too weak to do so. Nevertheless, she allows him to help her dismount and tears out a tuft of hair as punishment for his timidity displayed during the journey. Uolrîch withdraws into his lodging in town, feeling desperate and hopeless because of his missed chance. He cannot find rest during the night and sends for a doctor the next morning.
Motif References:
T 24.1 Love-sickness
UvLFD-144:
As Uolrîch is about to leave his lodging, his lady approaches: he is now able to address her and begs her to accept his service. The lady replies that Uolrîch is too young to become her knight and then ends the conversation.
Motif References:
T 42 Conversation of lovers
T 57 Declaration of love
UvLFD-158:
During the summer, Uolrîch spends his time attending tournaments (ritterschaft) and fighting in his lady’s honor (as frowen ritter). At the beginning of winter, Uolrîch again sends a song and a message to his relative who conveys it to Uolrîch’s lady. A messenger hands the booklet over to her under the pretence of giving her a prayer book. [Content of first booklet]
Motif References:
T 41 Communication of lovers
T 57 Declaration of love
UvLFD-164:
The lady receives also the letter that contains Uolrîch’s song. [Third minnesong, ein langiu wîse] Two days later, the lady dispatches the messenger with the booklet, who brings it back to his lady (Uolrîch’s relative), who passes it on to Uolrîch. He discovers that his lady has added a message to his text. As his scribe who usually reads and writes his private correspondence is absent, Uolrîch has to wait ten days until he gets to know the content of her message. [Lady’s message: she rejects his love] Despite his unrequited love, Uolrîch determines to serve the lady further.
Motif References:
T 75 Man scorned by his beloved
UvLFD-177:
As the period of fasting has arrived, Margrave Heinrîch of Istria plans an attack on Bernhard of Carinthia, but Liupolt of Austria intervenes with the intention to negotiate peace and appoints a law court on St Philip’s Day at Friesach. Uolrîch suggests to his brother Dietmâr of Liehtenstein that they attend the assembly there and take part in knightly games. His brother consents and proposes a special kind of tournament: to lay down in a fôreis and fight with every knight who challenges them. For this purpose, they summon knights from all over the country.
Motif References:
P 510 Law courts
P 550 Military affairs
P 561 Tournaments
UvLFD-185:
At the time of the law court, many nobles, princes, counts, barons, ministerials, and more than ten ecclesiastical lords, are lodged in the town (their names listed by the author). Uolrîch has ten huts and a tent erected outside the town and four banners and 500 lances fixed up. 36 knights stay the night there and are challenged the following morning by several nobles. Heralds comment on the happenings during the tournament. Knights have different motivations to partake in a tournament.
Motif References:
UvLFD-211:
As night falls, the fighters end the combats and retire into their lodgings. Uolrîch has jousted 30 lances. He resolves to separate from the other knights the next morning and ride on a nearby hill, clad in green garments, only accompanied by eleven pages who bear green lances and have green garments and housings. Before he disguises as green knight, he jousts with four knights and overcomes them all. After that, he retires into his tent, dresses himself and rides on the hill.
Motif References:
R 222 Unknown knight (Three days’ tournament)
F 527.2 Green knight
UvLFD-221:
Uolrîch’s brother Dietmâr is the first who challenges the unrecognized knight to a single combat, but Uolrîch turns away and jousts with another challenger, Hûc of Tûfers. Afterwards, Uolrîch fights against three other opponents, the combats ending undecided.
Motif References:
P 205 Refusal to fight relatives
UvLFD-228:
Finally, Uolrîch withdraws from the field of combat, removes his green disguise in secrecy and returns to the fighting, which lasts until night falls. People wonder about the identity of the green knight. The following morning, the knights engage again in knightly combats. The tournament lasts for ten days.
Motif References:
UvLFD-237:
Liupolt of Austria calls the main purpose of the nobles’ assembly to mind: the law court. The bishops are concerned about their expenses and press for the law court to be held. Bernhart of Carinthia suggests they hold a tournament on the next Monday in which he himself intends to participate. Uolrîch has the huts and tent removed and takes residence in town.
Motif References:
P 561 Tournaments
UvLFD-245:
Preparations for the tournament: clothes are sewed and the teams formed. Liupolt of Austria and the Margrave of Istria both lead teams of 300 knights.
Motif References:
UvLFD-255:
At the appointed time, the knights hear mass and then proceed to the battlefield accompanied by music and the shouts of heralds. The unit commanders remind the knights to stay close together. In the ensuing combat, many nobles distinguish themselves as excellent fighters. Many knights are captured and about 150 lose their horses. In the evening, the combatants retire into their lodgings, where baths have been prepared for them.
Motif References:
UvLFD-311:
The next morning, several captives have to ransom themselves and borrow from the Jews for this purpose. Finally, Liupolt of Österrîch reconciles the two feuding parties. Uolrîch pays his relative a visit, who offers to send a messenger to his lady with the tidings of Uolrîch’s outstanding deeds in the tournament. He sends a new song with the messenger. [Fourth minnesong, tanzwîse]
Motif References:
T 41 Communication of lovers
UvLFD-317:
Uolrîch begs the girl to send a messenger with the lady’s answer to him and departs. Subsequently, he participates in several tournaments, fighting in his lady’s honor. The lady receives and reads the letter which Uolrîch’s relative has directed to her, recommending Uolrîch as skilled fighter proved in the tournament of Friesach. [Content of letter]
Motif References:
UvLFD-321:
The lady writes an answer and dispatches the messenger. Uolrîch receives the lady’s letter in Leibenz where he attends a tournament: the lady rebukes Uolrîch’s relative for recommending a knight who is not praised by others. Despite the distressing message, Uolrîch continues to ride from tournament to tournament and fights in his lady’s honor. With the beginning of winter, Uolrîch pays a visit to his relative, who refuses to send her messenger once again, since the lady is guarded too well. Soon after his departure, Uolrîch composes a new song in the lady’s praise. [Fifth minnesong, tanzwîse]
Motif References:
T 50.1 Girl carefully guarded from suitors
UvLFD-340:
At the tournament of Brihsen, Uolrîch loses a finger in a joust against lord Uolschalch of Pôtzen. Back in town, Uolrîch consults a physician because of the finger, which is only hanging on a vein. The doctor binds the finger and looks after the wound six days later. It has become dark and Uolrîch resolves to consult another doctor in Pôtzen. During the journey, he sings a song in praise of his lady. [Sixth minnesong, tanzwîse]
Motif References:
P 424 Physician
UvLFD-352:
Having arrived in Bôtzen, Uolrîch is visited by the doctor and his wound is dressed. While he is confined to bed, a lady’s messenger arrives and brings him four booklets that are supposed to help the convalescent pass the time. The following day, the messenger comes again with his lady’s request to compose a German text to the melody of an Italian song. Uolrîch complies with her wish. [Seventh minnesong, sincwîse]
Motif References:
UvLFD-360:
As soon as the text of the songs is written down (not by the poet himself), the messenger brings them to his lady, who reads the text and dispatches the messenger again with a little dog as reward for the poet.
Motif References:
Q 95 Reward for musician
Q 114 Gifts as reward
UvLFD-362:
Uolrîch learns that a tournament will take place in twelve days time at Vrisach and gets the physician’s permission to attend it (the physician will accompany him). In Vrisach, Uolrîch, who is not yet able to fight, offers the little dog, a belt, ring and clasps as prize for the winner of the tournament, pretending that these things have been sent by a lady.
Motif References:
P 561 Tournaments
UvLFD-372:
After the tournament, Uolrîch tries to find a messenger who would convey the tidings of his accident (and that he suffered in her service) to his lady. He is eventually visited by a friend, who tells him that he knows Uolrîch’s lady. Uolrîch is abashed at this news since he has kept his lady’s identity secret, but finally confides in his friend and asks him to be his messenger. He is supposed to bring her Uolrîch’s song and his request of being accepted as her knight.
Motif References:
T 41 Communication of lovers
T 99 Love – additional motifs
UvLFD-392:
The page leaves Uolrîch and delivers the message to the lady. Once more, the lady rejects Uolrîch and declines his request to become her knight. [Eighth minnesong, tanzwîse]
Motif References:
T 75 Man scorned by his beloved
UvLFD-408:
The messenger returns to Uolrîch, who persists in his wish to serve the lady regardless of her rejection.
Motif References:
UvLFD-414:
Accompanied by the page, Uolrîch travels to Rome where he remains until Easter. During his sojourn, he composes and sings new songs. [Ninth minnesong, sincwîse]
Motif References:
UvLFD-418:
Uolrîch returns to Styria and participates in many tournaments in his lady’s honor. One more time, Uolrîch dispatches the messenger with a love-song and message to his lady. The page praises Uolrîch’s faithfulness and love before the lady and sings his song. [Tenth minnesong, tanzwîse]
Motif References:
T 41 Communication of lovers
UvLFD-427:
Once again, the lady emphasizes her aversion to Uolrîch’s service and insinuates that he has lied about having lost his finger in her service. The messenger replies that though Uolrîch did not lose it the finger has remained crooked. The lady rebukes the envoy for his former lie and admonishes him to refrain from delivering any message in the future. He takes leave and returns to Uolrîch, relating him the lady’s words.
Motif References:
UvLFD-436:
Uolrîch determines to cut off his finger and send it to his lady. For this purpose, he goes to meet Uolrîch of Hasendorf, a friend, whom he persuades to undertake the task. Then he sends the finger in a self-composed and beautifully adorned booklet to the lady. [Second booklet]
Motif References:
T 41 Communication of lovers
T 59 (Bm) Love tokens
T 69 Wooing – miscellaneous motifs
S 160.1 Self-mutilation
S 161.1 Mutilation: cutting off fingers
F 883.1 Extraordinary book
UvLFD-450:
The lady is willing to keep the finger in a chest, but still denies Uolrîch’s request to become her knight. His service would be of no avail.
Motif References:
UvLFD-457:
Uolrîch ponders over the question which deeds he should next undertake in his lady’s honor. He resolves to make a journey from Venice to Bohemia, clad in a woman’s dress, starting on St George’s Day (29th of April). Every knight who jousts with him during the journey will be given a golden ring, meant as present for the knight’s lady. Uolrîch sends his envoy to obtain the lady’s approval of this journey. She says that it will spread his renown but not change her attitude towards Uolrîch.
Motif References:
P 52 Knight jousts with all comers
K 1836 Disguise of man in woman’s dress
UvLFD-471:
Uolrîch leaves, pretending to make a pilgrimage to Rome. He stays in Venice for the winter: he takes a remote lodging and has female garments sewed for him (his surcoat, saddle, housing, lances, helmet, shield, and his twelve pages’ garments are all white). Additionally, he has a letter written which he sends to the nobles of the countries he will pass through on his journey to Bohemia.
Motif References:
Z 71.8 Formulistic number: twelve
Z 142 Symbolic color: white
F 829 Extraordinary clothing and ornaments – miscellaneous
K 1817.2 Disguise as palmer (pilgrim)
UvLFD-479:
[Venus’ letter] The letter is written in the name of the goddess Venus, inviting the knights to joust with her and receive a golden ring for their ladies. The ring has the effect that it renders a lady more beautiful and induces love for the knight. Finally, the “goddess” announces her itinerary, where and when she is to be met.
Motif References:
Q 111.4 Gold ring as reward
Z 137 (Li) Love personified: “Frau Minne”
P 556 Challenge to battle
F 825 Extraordinary ring
D 1076 Magic ring
D 1337.1 Magic object beautifies
D 1355.4 Ring produces love
K 1828.2 Disguise as goddess
D 1866 Other means of beautification
D 1905 Means of inducing love
UvLFD-480:
Knights all over the German countries receive the letter and prepare themselves for a joust against “Venus”. On St George’s Day, Uolrîch sets out for his journey, accompanied by his marshal, the cook, two men bearing his white banner, several pages and musicians and two maidens clad in white garments. Uolrîch’s shield is white and the helmet decorated with a crown. He wears white woman’s clothes and has two long brown plaits embellished with pearls.
Motif References:
Z 142 Symbolic color: white
F 829 Extraordinary clothing and ornaments – miscellaneous
UvLFD-490:
In Tervîs, the town’s potentate has prohibited the knights on threat of penalty from taking up the challenge. Count Meinhart of Gorze beseeches him in vain to allow the nobles to indulge in the knightly entertainment. Finally, the potentate is persuaded by the ladies and permits the count to joust two lances and the Lord Liutfrit of Eppenstein one lance against the “Queen”.
Motif References:
UvLFD-504:
The count’s appearance: his golden helmet decorated with a wreath of peacock feathers and silver leaf; the shield divided into two fields, the upper half showing a golden crowned lion on blue background, the lower covered with eight red (fur of the throat) and white (ermine) pieces; the green surcoat and housing emblazoned with his coat of arms.
Motif References:
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols – coat-of-arms
F 824 Extraordinary [part of] armor
UvLFD-511:
Uolrîch enters the crowded town, dressed in white garments. The two opponents meet on a bridge and engage in a single combat, jousting six lances. After the combat, Uolrîch gives a golden ring to the count. The joust with Leutfrit of Eppenstein proceeds the same way. In the evening, Uolrîch retires into his lodging, eager to disguise his identity.
Motif References:
P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
F 829 Extraordinary clothing and ornaments – miscellaneous
UvLFD-524:
The following morning, more than 200 ladies appear at Uolrîch’s lodging asking when he would go to church. Uolrîch dresses himself in female clothes. His/her cape is made of white samît showing golden animals, the plaits are fixed on a cap worn beneath a hat of peacock feathers, the face covered with a veil (rîse), the hands with gloves. Together with the ladies, he/she attends the hastilude that has been arranged by the count of Gorze.
Motif References:
F 821.4 Extraordinarily beautiful mantle
K 1821.3 Disguise by veiling face
UvLFD-534:
On Uolrîch’s request, the games end, and he attends the mass. His chamberlain has already prepared a kneeler (carpet and cushion on a folding chair). During the mass Uolrîch’s appearance causes a stir among the people. As he removes his veil to kiss the pæce (plate with the picture of Christ or the Cross), a lady standing next to him discovers that he is a man but gives him the kiss of peace nevertheless.
Motif References:
V 49 Mass – miscellaneous motifs
UvLFD-543:
The potentate forbids any further jousts in the town but suggests that they should hold them outside near the Plât. There, Uolrîch comes across a knight called Reinpreht of Mûrekke and fights with him. After the joust, he bestows a gold ring upon his adversary. The same happens with four other opponents. Finally, Uolrîch rides to Schetzîn where he stays for the night. The next morning he proceeds and meets the count of Gorze and some other knights: they engage in jousts. Later, the nobles accompany Uolrîch to his next accommodation in St Uolrîch.
Motif References:
UvLFD-558:
The following morning, Uolrîch arms himself and sets out for a nearby field where he meets Otte of Spengenberc and some other knights. The successful opponents all earn gold rings.
Motif References:
UvLFD-563:
On his way to Clemûn, Uolrîch comes across a young maiden who was dispatched by Lord Mathie to give him a lance with which he is supposed to fight against the maiden’s lord. Uolrîch takes the lance and arms himself. Soon afterwards, his opponent appears with some companions. They engage in jousts and Uolrîch rewards the successful knights with a golden ring. In the evening, when Uolrîch has withdrawn into his lodging, the knights hold mounted games before his window.
Motif References:
P 14.15.2 Court messenger
UvLFD-577:
A noble lady adds a shirt (röckel) to Uolrîch’s laundry while it is washed by a servant. It is wrapped around a letter, belt, and chaplet. The next morning, Uolrîch arms himself and his trumpeters announce that he is ready for combat. On a field nearby, Uolrîch jousts with Lord Mathie one more time, then with eleven other knights. Seven of them receive a gold ring.
Motif References:
UvLFD-586:
Uolrîch leaves Clemûn and rides to Clûse where he spends the night. The ensuing day, he jousts with the Lord of Lüenz. Overnight stay in Tor. After his departure from Tor, he meets the Lord of Kerndenland (Carinthia) and his retinue of about 100 knights. He is welcomed in the local language. Uolrîch jousts with several knights, among them the butler Herman of Osterwitze and Kol of Vinkensteine. He distributes 15 rings before he sets out for Villach.
Motif References:
UvLFD-600:
Uolrîch takes up his lodging in Villach, attends mass in the morning attired as Queen Venus. As he is about to arm himself, he finds the unknown shirt and the German letter. [Anonymous letter addressed to Venus]
Motif References:
T 59 (Bm) Love tokens
UvLFD-606:
Uolrîch engages in jousts with several knights (among them Swikkêr of Vrowenstein and Ruodolf of Ras), eventually giving away twelve rings. Having retired into his loding and being again dressed in female clothes, Uolrîch observes mounted games held on the market square.
Motif References:
UvLFD-614:
The next day, Uolrîch rides on towards Veltkirchen and meets many nobles: Gotfrit of Havenerpurc, his brother Arnolt, Kol of Treven, Bernhart and Uolrîch, Zacheus of Himelberc (widely known for his singing). The latter wears a black habit over his hauberk, thus mocking the “goddess”. Venus/Uolrîch refuses to fight with him.
Motif References:
UvLFD-620:
Uolrîch moves towards St Vitus the following morning where the nobility cordially welcomes him. 25 knights (Reinher of Eichelsperc, Kuonrât of Lebnach, Kuone of Vrîberc, Jacob von dem Berge, Kuonrât of Teinach, Ruodelîn of Nuzperc, Gundacker of Vrowenstein, Heinrîch of Grîffenvels, Wülfinc of Gurnetz, Heinrîch of Grâvenstein and others) engage in jousts with “Venus”.
Motif References:
UvLFD-630:
Also the “monk” appears but Uolrîch takes his helmet off at his sight and returns to his residence. The jousts continue the following day (against Ortolf of Osterwizze, Wîchart of Karlesperc, Engelram of Strâzpurc, Engelbreht of Strâzburc, and Siegfried the Saxon) and the knight in the habit returns. Finally, Uolrîch is persuaded by the other combatants to joust with the “monk” and unhorses him.
Motif References:
UvLFD-641:
Then, Uolrîch leaves for Vrisach where he is welcomed by a group of nobles. In front of his lodging mounted games (buhurt) are held. The following morning, jousts begin on a field nearby: Kuonrât of Nîdekke, Otte of Buhse and Dietrich are some of Uolrîch’s opponents.
Motif References:
UvLFD-650:
Uolrîch continues his journey and reaches Scheuflich in Styria. He receives a friendly reception there and jousts with the knights the next day (Ilsunc of Scheuflich and others).
Motif References:
F 821.3 Dress with (gold, silver, and diamond) bells
F 832 Extraordinary lance
UvLFD-659:
Judenburc is Uolrîch’s next destination. One more time, the local nobility welcomes him and he meets the pugnacious knights the next morning. Afterwards, he passes through Knütelvelde and Leuben (jousts against Dietmâr of Styer, Siegfried of Torsiul and others).
Motif References:
UvLFD-669:
In Capfenberc, the burgrave Wülfinc of Stubenberc invites the “Queen” to be his guest, but Uolrîch declines his offer, wishing to pay for his lodging and not accepting anything for nothing. The next day, Uolrîch and the burgrave fight against each other and the latter receives a gold ring.
Motif References:
P 320 Hospitality
UvLFD-685:
The same day, Uolrîch sets out for Kinnenberc. On his way, he meets an envoy, dispatched by the lord of the castle, who tells him that only a lady will fight against him since there are no knights in this region. Uolrîch smiles and replies that he has often fought with women but always without armor. The messenger insists that his lady wants to joust with him under arms and eventually reveals to him that “she” is a knight wearing woman’s clothes.
Motif References:
P 50 Noblemen (knights) [rules of chivalry]
P 63 (Bm) Lady in armor (and battle)
UvLFD-693:
The “lady in armor”: wears a ring as helmet crest, drop earrings fixed to the helmet, two long plaits, a gôdehse (Slavic woman’s garment), the blue shield, housing and lance are decorated with floral wreaths. After the combat with the “lady”, Uolrîch jousts with Ottacker Træge, Sîbot of Rîchenvels, and the Lord of Peuchenpach. Then, he moves on towards Murzzuslage, where he spends the night.
Motif References:
UvLFD-703:
Uolrîch traverses the Semernic and reaches Glokeniz. After several jousts (among his opponents the lord of Ringenberc and Uolrîch of Torsewel), he withdraws into his lodging and leaves secretly to pay a visit to his wife, staying with her for two days. Then, he returns to Glokeniz and sets out for Niwenkirchen. There, he is welcomed and jousts take place (against Ortolf of Grætz, who inflicts a wound on Uolrîch’s breast, Offe and Heinrîch of Puten and others). The tidings of the “Queen’s” wound are widely disseminated. Uolrîch attends the mass the next morning to demonstrate his good health and condition.
Motif References:
UvLFD-720:
On his way to Niwenstat, Lord Bertholt advances towards him, bearing a banner that displays a blue pail on silvery white background. Wülfinc of Horschendorf and five other knights are additional combatants, all rewarded with rings except for the hapless Wülfinc.
Motif References:
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols – coat-of-arms
UvLFD-727:
After Uolrîch has taken residence in Niwenstat, he orders his chamberlain to prepare a bath outside the town. There he is ministered to by a bader (servants attending the bathing person) who does not know his identity. As the chamberlain leaves his master alone to fetch the clothes, a courtly page appears and lays down some presents before him: a woman’s dress, a veil, tunic, precious belt and clasp, chaplet, ring (with a ruby), and a letter. Uolrîch furiously rejects the presents, not wanting to accept anything that does not come from his lady, but the page continues unflustered to do his errand by strewing rose petals into and around the bath. Then he leaves.
Motif References:
T 59 (Bm) Love tokens
UvLFD-736:
The chamberlain returns and, on his master’s narration of the happenings, persuades him to take the presents with him (the lady’s honor would be disparaged and her kinsmen could take revenge upon Uolrîch if the servants stole the clothes and eventually learned the lady’s name). Uolrîch has the letter read to him in order to find out the lady’s identity to be able to return the gifts to her. [Anonymous letter addressed to Queen Venus]
Motif References:
UvLFD-749:
Uolrîch reaches Austrian territory. Near the brook called Bistnic, he finds armed knights who welcome him. Wolfkêr of Gors offers to become chamberlain at Venus’ court and Gotfrit of Tozenpach asks in the name of his lord, the diocesan advocate of Regenspurc, to be vouchsafed the office of a marshal. Uolrîch answers that he will appoint them as officials if they joust with him successfully.
Motif References:
UvLFD-764:
As Uolrîch approaches Dreskirchen, he finds the armed Wolfkêr of Gors, who receives the office of a chamberlain by means of a joust with “Venus”. He and the other fortunate knights receive rings as reward. The newly appointed chamberlain takes care of Uolrîch’s hauberk and leads his horse by the bridle to his lodging.
Motif References:
P 50.2 Marshall [Court officials: marshall, steward, etc.]
UvLFD-774:
On his way to Malanstorf, Uolrîch meets his messenger who brings tidings from his lady. The messenger sings a song [written by Walther von der Vogelweide] before he and Uolrîch withdraw from their companions and have a secret conversation. The lady has sent Uolrîch a benevolent message and a ring she has worn for ten years.
Motif References:
T 57 Declaration of love
T 59.1 (Bm) Rings as love tokens
T 99 Love – additional motifs
UvLFD-793:
Uolrîch continues his journey and dispatches a messenger to announce his coming. Thereupon, the lord of Horschendorf arms himself and meets Uolrîch to joust with him and earn the reward. After the joust, Uolrîch changes his hauberk for female clothes. Approaching Vienna, he meets the church advocate and his banner-bearer with the banner half white, half red. 50 crossbowmen preceded by their horses, 50 pages riding two by two and carrying a lance each, followed by another banner-bearer (the banner in the same fashion as the first), 50 horses transporting new shields (the upper half being white and blue, the lower of golden color) and 300 lances, 50 knights clad in green capes, finally the dignitary himself, dressed in a cape made of scarlet, a hat decorated with peacock feathers and pearls, a green tunic made of phelle and embroidered with golden animals, and black trousers.
Motif References:
UvLFD-811:
The advocate addresses “Queen Venus” and begs to be invested with the office of a marshal, offering to provide “her” and the retinue with lodgings in Vienna. The burghers cede their houses to the guests and the ladies dress themselves to give “Venus” an honorable welcome.
Motif References:
P 50.2 Marshall [Court officials: marshall, steward, etc.]
UvLFD-822:
In front of his accommodation, Hadmâr of Küenringe, who has arranged a hastilude (buhurt) there, expects Uolrîch. Uolrîch watches the games from a gallery.
Motif References:
UvLFD-826:
Uolrîch has another secret conversation with his messenger, inquiring after his lady’s condition. He resolves to organize a tournament in Niwenburc and participate with 50 knights in his lady’s honor. Then he dispatches the messenger to the lady with the request to send another ornament as token of her favor.
Motif References:
UvLFD-842:
The following morning, Uolrîch attends a mass and afterwards gets armed. Over his armor, he wears a white dress, girded with a three finger wide belt and held together by a clasp with the width of one span, and a veil. Uolrîch rides through the town, accompanied by 160 knights and marveled at by many ladies, until he reaches the field of combat where he is expected by the diocese advocate.
Motif References:
UvLFD-853:
Description of the advocate’s helmet crest: bunch of peacock feathers, tied together with a silken cloth. His tabard is made of red samît, adorned with iron oak leaves. The housing is made in the same fashion, the shield divided into two halves, the upper half with various colors, the lower golden.
Motif References:
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols – coat-of-arms
F 824 Extraordinary [part of] armor
UvLFD-857:
A knight, named Gundacker of Stîer, forestalls the diocese advocate and is the first to attack “Venus”, but followed by the advocate so that Uolrîch jousts against two opponents. Kuonrât of Strîtwisen and Siegfried of Totzenbach are further combatants. After Uolrîch has jousted 30 lances, his marshal (the advocate) takes the shield, unties the helmet, and leads the horse by the bridle to a place where a carpet is spread. There, Uolrîch changes the hauberk for female clothes.
Motif References:
P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
UvLFD-874:
On his way into town, Uolrîch is addressed by a messenger of Hademâr of Küenrinc who begs in his lord’s name that Uolrîch would vouchsafe a joust right now. As he is too tired, Uolrîch suggests the joust to be postponed till the next morning. Hademâr consents. Back in his lodging, Uolrîch hears conjectures rumored that “Venus” declined the joust because of Hademâr’s homosexuality. Thereupon, the knight is hostile to Uolrîch and eager to unhorse him the following day.
Motif References:
UvLFD-884:
Mounted games take place the ensuing day near Niwenburc. Uolrîch’s opponents: Gotfrit of Totzenpach, Uolrîch of Stentz, the lord of Kyowe, Heinrîch of Hakenberc, Bope of Busenberc (Hademâr’s champion) and Rüedgêr of Antschowe. The joust with the latter takes place by candlelight since night has fallen. Finally, Uolrîch returns to his dwelling after he has distributed 35 rings among the knights.
Motif References:
UvLFD-904:
The following day is spent in Mistelbach with jousts. Then, Uolrîch rides on towards Velsperc where Cadolt of Velsperc welcomes him. He declines the host’s offer to take the lodging in his castle because he does not want to accept anything for nothing.
Motif References:
P 320 Hospitality
UvLFD-912:
A joust between Dietmâr of Liehtenstein and Wolfkêr of Gors prompts Uolrîch to announce his readiness for combat among the knights. The armed combatants proceed to a field near the town. Uolrîch fights against Lord Siegfried Weise, Berhtolt der Rebestoc, Ruopreht of Purstendorf (who is unhorsed and, to Uolrîch’s distress, almost killed) and others.
Motif References:
UvLFD-929:
The ensuing morning, Uolrîch is invited by Cadolt of Velsperc to enjoy the company of the noble ladies at his castle. Uolrîch accepts and the host, his wife and her entourage receive him well. The women laugh at Uolrîch’s appearance and address him as queen.
Motif References:
UvLFD-935:
During the early mass, Uolrîch is enamored by the beauty of especially one lady, but keeps to his faithful love for his mistress. As he brings his offering, he moves like a woman to the ladies’ amusement. As he receives the pæce on a book and proffers it to several ladies, they decline since they do not want to kiss a man.
Motif References:
V 49 Mass – miscellaneous motifs
T 99 Love – additional motifs
UvLFD-948:
Uolrîch takes his leave, refusing to accept his host’s invitation for a meal. Uolrîch returns to his lodging, sends rings to the successful knights and then jousts 22 lances.
Motif References:
P 320 Hospitality
UvLFD-952:
Uolrîch leaves the town, crosses the Thye and reaches the Bohemian country. He stops at a meadow and notifies the local nobles of his presence. Thereupon, Otte of Schonenkirchen arrives and tilts at “Venus”. Meanwhile, other knights have appeared and joust with Uolrîch (among them the advocate of Lengenbach, who persuades Uolrîch after the combat to refrain from further fighting and entrust his servants to him while he proceeds to Wienen).
Motif References:
UvLFD-968:
Secretly, Uolrîch departs accompanied only by one of the advocate’s retainers (Kol of Vrônhoven) and takes up residence in Wienen, where he lives incognito for three days. Meanwhile, Uolrîch’s female clothes are distributed among the itinerant entertainers on the advocate’s suggestion, who leads the servants to Uolrîch’s dwelling. The remaining knights return to Austria and are accommodated by Kadolt of Velsperc. The advocate, Uolrîch’s chamberlain and several knights praise Uolrîch’s enterprise (the journey as “Venus”).
Motif References:
UvLFD-986:
Uolrîch welcomes the advocate and other knights in his lodging. They jest about Uolrîch retransformation into a man. Uolrîch successfully solicits their participation in the tournament of Niwenburc in his team. The knights arrange the preparations for the tournament.
Motif References:
UvLFD-995:
On his way to Niwenburc, Uolrîch has a banner of the following fashion: it is made of white zendâl (kind of taffeta), divided by two black diagonal fesses. In front of the banner, trombonists play a reisenote. Behind the banner, Uolrîch’s helmet is transported (its crest is a golden fan with peacock feathers fixed to its ends and leaves of gold hung into the folds). His shield is overlaid with white ermine, intersected by fesses of black sable fur. The tasseled housing is made of scarlet, trimmed with golden braids in squares; silver roses lined with yellow zendâl are fixed on the points of the braids’ intersection.
Motif References:
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols – coat-of-arms
F 824 Extraordinary [part of] armor
F 899 Other extraordinary objects
UvLFD-1002:
The advocate’s appearance: the housing is made of a red zendâl and displays Uolrîch’s coat of arms. The caparisons of the other knights of Uolrîch’s retinue are made in the same style. They wear the same surcoats, have the same shields and housings, differing from each other only in their helmet crests.
Motif References:
UvLFD-1007:
Near Niwenburc, the nobles of Küenrinc receive Uolrîch. Having taken up their residence in the town, the knights turn the night into day visiting each other’s lodgings and making friends. The following morning, they attend mass.
Motif References:
UvLFD-1013:
After the mass, the teams are formed: 250 knights divided into two units of about equal number. Heralds urge on the combatants to be armed. Uolrîch dons his spaldenier and the mail trousers.
Motif References:
P 561 Tournaments
UvLFD-1016:
As Uolrîch’s messenger returns from his errand, they have a secret conversation. The messenger tells Uolrîch that his lady has withdrawn her favor and demands her ring back because she has heard that Uolrîch is serving another lady. Thereupon, Uolrîch laments and weeps over this unjustified suspicion. As the advocate enters the chamber, compassion prompts him to join Uolrîch’s crying, who does not confide in him. After some time, Heinrîch of Wazzerberc, Uolrîch’s brother-in-law, comes in and rebukes the two knights for their childish and female weeping. Uolrîch refuses again to reveal to him the reason for his grief, but Heinrîch conjectures what has happened.
Motif References:
T 99 Love – additional motifs
Q 380 Deeds punished – miscellaneous
UvLFD-1042:
As Heinrîch utters his assumption, blood bursts out of Uolrîch’s mouth and nose. Heinrîch praises his brother-in-law’s faithfulness in love, and assumes that he will be soon successful in love since the lady only tested his sincerity. He exhorts Uolrîch to refrain from lamenting and have a joyful spirit, the prerequisite for success with the ladies. Finally, he arms the desperate man and has him participate in the tournament despite his desolate state of mind.
Motif References:
T 99 Love – additional motifs
H 314 Suitor’s sincerity tested
H 338 Suitor test: faithfulness
F 1041.21.1.1 Tears of blood from excessive grief
H 1556.4 Fidelity in love tested
UvLFD-1056:
On a field near the town, Uolrîch finds the teams of Hademâr and his brother Heinrîch of Küenrinc and tilts at some of their knights. The brothers, who lead the teams, both keep them from taking Uolrîch captive, wanting him to serve his lady. Then, the groups fight against each other, among the combatants the advocate of Lengenbach, Wolfkêr of Gors, Dietmâr of Liehtenstein, Heinrîch of Wazzerberc, the Lord of Kyowe, Uolrîch of Steutz, the Lord of Ottenstein, Engelschalch of Küngesbrunne, Rebestoc. The tourney ends, and the knights withdraw into their lodgings. The captives are released.
Motif References:
UvLFD-1077:
The following morning, the participants depart for their homes. Uolrîch’s messenger notices his lord’s grief and volunteers to go to his lady. Uolrîch rejoices and urges the messenger to tell the lady about his faithfulness. He also composes a song about his true love to send it with the envoy.
Motif References:
UvLFD-1088:
After the messenger has left him, Uolrîch rides to the home of his wife where he stays for ten days. Then he returns to Liehtenstein. Meanwhile, Uolrîch’s envoy is kindly received by the lady. He recounts Uolrîch’s reaction to her word and emphasizes his fidelity. The lady replies that she already knows everything through the report of her own messenger and that she is amiably disposed towards Uolrîch though she would not grant the reward Uolrîch has in mind. The messenger hands the song’s text (and the melody) over to the lady, who reads it with delight. [11th minnesong, sincwîse]
Motif References:
T 99 Love – additional motifs
UvLFD-1101:
Having read the song’s text, the lady dispatches the messenger with the word that she wants to see Uolrîch: he and the messenger should disguise as lepers, join the other lepers on the next Sunday morning in front of her castle. Upon their knocking, she would send her messenger to give them further instructions. Uolrîch should not come with the hope of having sexual intercourse with her; she would never yield to such a desire.
Motif References:
T 35 Lovers’ rendezvous
K 1818.1 Disguise as leper
UvLFD-1107:
The messenger rides to the place where he has left Uolrîch (who has in the meantime moved to Liehtenstein though). As he does not find him, he turns to Uolrîch’s castle and reaches him after some delay on Friday evening. He approaches Uolrîch with a smile and demands from him to kneel down before he imparts the lady’s message to him. As Uolrîch complies with his wish, the messenger recounts the lady’s words.
Motif References:
UvLFD-1117:
Uolrîch reckons that he has not enough time to reach the lady’s castle by Sunday morning since it is forty miles away from his own. Nevertheless, he resolves to try to be there in time, otherwise, he could lose the lady’s benevolence. Saturday morning, he sets out secretly together with the messenger and a servant and rides 36 miles until he reaches a town where he stays for the night. Uolrîch and his messenger dress themselves with ragged clothes and take with them lepers’ bowls and long knives.
Motif References:
UvLFD-1127:
Sunday morning, Uolrîch and his messenger approach the lady’s castle in disguise. There, they find thirty lepers sitting in the grass who tell them about the lady’s generosity and recommend knocking on the gate to beg for alms. Uolrîch proceeds to a balcony and knocks at a door. A maid advances towards the lepers, distributes money among them and then asks the two unknown “beggars” about their identity. Uolrîch first maintains his disguise, then reveals himself as the maid seems to know the purpose of his presence.
Motif References:
W 11 Generosity
P 162 Lepers
UvLFD-1142:
The maid returns to her lady, informing her of Uolrîch’s presence. The lady sends Uolrîch the message that he should wait until evening, concealing himself to protect his and her honor. The maid conveys the message to Uolrîch and brings him food (chicken, bread and wine).
Motif References:
T 99 Love – additional motifs
UvLFD-1149:
Uolrîch shares the food with the lepers despite their repulsive appearance in order to maintain his pretense. Uolrîch describes the means of his disguise in case some listener might object that Uolrîch’s healthy condition must soon have been discovered. He has put a herb in his mouth which renders his body swollen and the skin pale and dyed his hair gray (though it is already partly gray because of the grief caused by his love). After the meal, Uolrîch roams about the countryside, begging for alms. As he deposits his food beneath a bush and leaves it behind for some time, he finds it stolen on his return. In the evening, he receives word from his lady to wait until the next morning for their rendezvous and is therefore compelled to join the lepers once again for a meal.
Motif References:
UvLFD-1165:
Uolrîch spends the night in a grain field, drenched by a shower of rain, suffering cold and vermin.
Motif References:
T 69 Wooing – miscellaneous motifs
H 328 Suitor test: power of endurance
H 1502 Test: enduring hardship
UvLFD-1171:
In the morning, Uolrîch approaches the castle. The maid brings him a message from his lady, delaying the rendezvous once more and promising him a meeting that night. Uolrîch spends the day waiting in a nearby forest.
Motif References:
UvLFD-1181:
Having returned to the castle in the early evening, Uolrîch is told by the maid that one of the lepers has suspected him of being of noble birth since he wears precious linen. The maiden fears that the rumor will spread.
Motif References:
H 151.6.2 Recognition because of imperfection of disguise
UvLFD-1184:
She instructs Uolrîch to hide at nightfall in the castle-moat and wait for a light signal from a certain balcony. There, he would find bedclothes tied together hanging down from the balcony. Uolrîch follows her instructions and goes to his hiding-place at the appointed time. Seven guards do their rounds and one of them urinates over Uolrîch without discovering him. Uolrîch undresses himself therefore before he approaches the balcony on the light signal.
Motif References:
T 41.3 Lover’s signal
T 46 Suitor outwits watchman to meet lady
K 1343 Man drawn up into female apartment on rope
K 1892 Deception by hiding
UvLFD-1191:
Three times, the women try in vain to lift Uolrîch up. Then, Uolrîch has his servant who is of less weight pulled up by the sheets. He reaches the room and is kissed by Uolrîch’s relative who mistakes him for Uolrîch. Now they are able to lift Uolrîch up who enters the chamber and greets his relative with a kiss. From her, he receives a gown (suckenîe) to cover himself.
Motif References:
H 195 (Bm) Failure to recognize
UvLFD-1198:
Description of Uolrîch’s lady: she sits preciously clad on a bed that is covered by two silken blankets, an elaborate cushion and two pillows. Eight ladies-in-waiting accompany her.
Motif References:
UvLFD-1204:
Uolrîch tries to persuade the lady to have sexual intercourse with him, but to no avail. Although she wants to remain faithful to her husband, she admits Uolrîch to her chamber merely in appreciation of his service.
Motif References:
T 35.5 Lover goes to see his beloved in her husband’s (or her father’s) house, defiant of the danger
T 320.1 Often-proved fidelity: Repeated attempts to seduce innocent woman, she escapes them all
UvLFD-1214:
Uolrîch complains to his relative about the lady’s rejection of his wish. The girl advises him to make his plea another time (then more successfully) and serve the lady further in the meantime.
Motif References:
UvLFD-1221:
He returns to his lady and beseeches her to give him a sign of her love. Though she is unwilling to diminish her honor and reacts angrily on Uolrîch’s words, she leads him to another room of the castle. There, Uolrîch repeats his plea but is rejected once more. As he tells his relative that he will not leave the lady without having his wish fulfilled, the girl goes to the lady to impart Uolrîch’s intention to her.
Motif References:
UvLFD-1246:
The lady assures Uolrîch that his wish will be granted when he yields to her request: he should be lowered on the rope and wait some time. Then, she would draw him up and yield to his desire. As Uolrîch suspects that she will not lift him once he has left her, she allows him to hold her hand. He is lowered down from the balcony, still holding the lady’s hand. As she pretends to be willing to give him a kiss, he lets the hand go and the rope is dropped.
Motif References:
T 75.0.1 Suitors ill-treated
T 323 Escape from undesired lover by strategy
K 1218 Importunate lovers led astray
K 1227 Lover put off by deceptive respite
UvLFD-1271:
Uolrîch, ashamed of the humiliation and rejection, wants to drown himself but is prevented by his servant, who brings him a pillow sent to him by the lady and reassures him that she will grant him his wish the coming night. Hurriedly, they return to the servant boy who guards the horses. Uolrîch’s companion imparts a message from the lady to him: she would compensate for the injury sustained (which she was forced to do to him because of a lady at court who will depart soon) by receiving him in twenty days time. He would be her guest for ten days and granted every favor a good woman does for her lover. Eventually, Uolrîch returns to Liehtenstein.
Motif References:
T 81.2.1.1 Scorned lover (woman) threatens to kill self
T 93.3 Disappointed lover kills [attempts to kill] self
UvLFD-1293:
Three days later, Uolrîch sets out for a tournament in Sant Pölten. On his way, he dispatches his messenger to the lady to learn of her feelings towards him and her instructions concerning his clandestine visit.
Motif References:
T 99 Love – additional motifs
UvLFD-1297:
The messenger is received warmly by the lady and recounts Uolrîch’s attempted suicide and the lies he told the desperate man to hold him back. The lady replies that she will not reward a sad knight’s service and recalls the reaction of a watchman caused by Uolrîch’s lamentations: the watchman perceived Uolrîch in the dark and considered the running and shouting figure to be the devil.
Motif References:
J 628 Dissuasion from suicide
J 1786 Man thought to be a devil or ghost
UvLFD-1314:
The lady assigns an overseas journey to Uolrîch: if he undertook the quest she would give him her favors. The messenger leaves and finds Uolrîch at Wazzerberc. They have a secret conversation and the messenger relates the lady’s words. Uolrîch is eager to perform the service.
Motif References:
H 336 Suitors assigned quests
H 1219 Assignment of quests – miscellaneous
UvLFD-1330:
By his messenger, Uolrîch sends self-composed songs and a booklet together with his reply to the lady. The envoy is again received well by her and delivers Uolrîch’s message. The lady reads the booklet and a song. [Content of third booklet, 12th minnesong, tanzwîse]
Motif References:
T 41 Communication of lovers
UvLFD-1338:
The lady sends the messenger back to Uolrîch, telling him to prepare himself for the journey and wait for the invitation to visit her. Until then, he should refrain from dispatching the envoy to her. Uolrîch receives the message in Vienna. [13th minnesong, tanzwîse]
Motif References:
UvLFD-1344:
Uolrîch spends the summer with social events and tourneys, without hearing anything from his lady. He composes another minnesong in her honor. [14th minnesong, tanzwîse] The lady reacts on the song by sending word to Uolrîch, releasing him from the crusade. Out of joy, Uolrîch sings new songs. [15th to 19th minnesong, one lanc wîse, one ûzreise, two tanzwîse, and one sancwîse]
Motif References:
UvLFD-1361:
This summer, Uolrîch is once offended by his lady, but does not tell what she has done. In the fall, he composes a lament. [20th minnesong, tanzwîse] As the lady continues to offend Uolrîch, he quits her service and sings new songs about the lady’s changeability in winter, the topics shifting towards praise of nature and women in summer [21st to 29th minnesong, seven tanzwîse, one leich, one reie]
Motif References:
T 75 Man scorned by his beloved
T 75.3 Unrequited love expressed in song (poem)
UvLFD-1381:
Uolrîch meets another lady and spends some time with her at the end of summer. He composes new songs. [30th to 31st minnesong, tanzwîse, wîse] Uolrîch resolves to enter the service of a lady and chooses one who surpasses the others in virtue. He notifies her of his intention and is well received. Uolrîch composes songs in honor of his new lady. [32nd to 37th minnesong, six tanzwîse]
Motif References:
T 31.0.1 (Bm) Knight places himself in would-be lady’s service
P 52.2 (Li) Knight in service of a lady
UvLFD-1400:
Uolrîch dresses himself in beautiful armor and garments (some scarlet red).
Motif References:
Z 147.1 Purple is symbol of royalty
F 824 Extraordinary [part of] armor
F 829 Extraordinary clothing and ornaments – miscellaneous
F 839.2 Extraordinary shield
UvLFD-1408:
Uolrîch jousts with several knights: Kuonrât of Stretwich, Kuonrât of Sûrouwe, Cristân of Priks, Liutfrit of Eppenstein (whom he names Kalocrîant). He stays on a field near Krâbat for the night, and the jousts recommence the next morning. Afterwards, Uolrîch composes a new song. [38th song, ûzreise]
Motif References:
P 52 Knight jousts with all comers
K 1810.1 Disguise by putting on clothes (carrying accoutrements) of certain person
UvLFD-1426:
Uolrîch moves towards Prucke where other jousts take place (against Herman of Krotendorf and Dietmâr of Mûre). Whoever jousts three lances against Uolrîch without being unhorsed, is admitted to King Arthur’s Round Table. In Capfenberc, Lantzilet of Spiegelberc (his real name being Heinrîch) and Ortolf of Kapfenberc engage in jousts with “King Arthur”. After an overnight stay in Krüegelach, Uolrîch rides onwards and is tilted at by Lord Ywân (Erchengêr of Landesêr). Then, he rides to Glogentz where he engages in jousts against Lord Segremors (Alber of Arnstein), who is admitted to the Round Table after jousting six lances, and Heinrîch of Buseke, and then proceeds to Niuwenkirchen.
Motif References:
P 19.0.1 (Li) King Arthur as leader of outstanding chivalric society (Round Table)
Z 71.1 Formulistic number: three
Z 201.9.1 (Bm) Hero’s famous possessions – Arthur’s Round Table
H 1574 Tests of social position
UvLFD-1451:
Uolrîch has three banners fixed in the shape of his shield, and with a procession of servants and more than 100 knights he advances towards Niuwenstat, accompanied by Nycolâ of Lebenberc, whom he calls Lord Tristram. On the way, he meets a messenger of the Austrian prince, who welcomes King Arthur to his territory, giving thanks for his return from paradise and expressing his wish to join the Round Table. Uolrîch dispatches the envoy with the humorous message that he would be willing to enfeoff the prince with castles, subjects and land.
Motif References:
P 14.15.2 Court messenger
E 390 Friendly return from the dead – miscellaneous
A 581 Culture hero (divinity) returns
UvLFD-1461:
The envoy finds the Austrian prince Friderîch in Liehtenwerde and delivers “Arthur’s” message. Meanwhile, Uolrîch approaches Niuwenstat and is welcomed by several knights and their escorts, among them Râpot of Valkenberc, a miserly and disloyal man.
Motif References:
P 50.0.2 (Bm) Knight who acknowledges no overlord [Allegiance: loyalty and disloyalty of vassals]
W 153 Miserliness
UvLFD-1500:
Among the escort of Kadolt Weise is a beautiful maiden, who conveys an invitation from “Frow Êre” for a tournament, which will take place in two weeks time at Krumbenowe in Bohemia. Uolrîch has his tents and the Round Table (a circle formed by a band put around banners and lances) put up at Kezenlînsdorf. The fenced area is restricted to jousting knights.
Motif References:
P 14.15.2 Court messenger
Z 201.9.1 (Bm) Hero’s famous possessions – Arthur’s Round Table
P 561 Tournaments
UvLFD-1519:
Uolrîch exhorts the knights Gâwân of Liehtenstein, Ybân of Landesêre and Lantzelet of Spiegelberc to defend the circle against the other knights. As Otte of Mîssouwe (whose helmet crest is a wreath of long white goose feathers and his coat of arms a black unicorn on golden background) approaches, he is tilted at by Lord Gâwân.
Motif References:
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols – coat-of-arms
UvLFD-1525:
Lord Gâwân is Uolrîch’s brother and bears the same coat of arms: two black bends on a white shield. This shield is also displayed on the green caparison. He engages in a joust with Otte of Mîssowe. Also the other “Arthurian” knights defend the ring till the evening. Uolrîch grants Kadolt Weise the first joust next morning.
Motif References:
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols – coat-of-arms
UvLFD-1534:
Description of Kadolt Weise’s appearance and coat of arms: his helmet crest is a wreath of 13 peacock feathers, his shield shows a silver lion with a golden bejeweled crown on black background. His surcoat, caparison and banner are patterned according to this heraldic sign. The joust between him and Uolrîch ends with an injury of his right-hand thumb. Uolrîch and the other “Arthurian” knights (Erec of Tulbinge, Segramurs of Arnstein, Lanzilet of Spiegelberc, Tristram of Lebenberc, Îther of Lindeniz, Parcifâl of Lüentz, Gâwân of Liechtenstein, and Ywân of Landesêre) engage in several combats.
Motif References:
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols – coat-of-arms
UvLFD-1566:
On the fifth day, a messenger from Prince Friderîch arrives and begs Uolrîch to stop the jousting and begin with the tournament, in which he intends to take part.
Motif References:
UvLFD-1579:
The following day, the teams are formed, with “King Arthur” on one side and the Austrian prince on the other. The tournament commences and Kadolt Weise wins two horses from opponents. By a messenger, the Austrian prince begs the knights to end the tournament since he is not able to participate. They comply with his request.
Motif References:
P 561 Tournaments
UvLFD-1601:
On his way to Vienna, Uolrîch is met by one of the prince’s messengers who invite him to Hintperc in his lord’s name. There, Uolrîch is welcomed and received by Friderîch, who dissuades him from traveling to the tourney in Bohemia, since the Bohemian king is his enemy and would have the participants captured and ransomed.
Motif References:
UvLFD-1612:
Uolrîch praises his lady. [39th minnesong] He criticizes the poetical fiction of a guardian warning the lovers in the morning, since no man of low birth could ever keep a secret. [40th and 44th minnesong, one tagewîse]
Motif References:
UvLFD-1659:
On St Vitus’s day, Duke Friderîch of Austria is slain during the battle on the banks of the river Leitha. As he exhorts his soldiers, a troop of Riuzen attacks and one of them slays the Duke. The corpse (clad only in a “gambeson”, his linen clothes and one shoe, showing not more than a small wound on the cheek and a bruise on one leg) is discovered by his scribe Heinrîch, who brings the dead prince into the town and a burgher’s house. The Hungarians are eventually defeated. Friderîch is buried at Heiligenkreuz.
Motif References:
P 16 End of king’s reign
P 425 Scribe
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
UvLFD-1677:
After the Duke’s death, the poor fall victim to the nobility’s robbing and pillaging. Those nobles are rebuked for their wickedness and taught the right behavior. [45th minnesong] Praise of Uolrîch’s lady. [46th minnesong named “vrouwentanz”]
Motif References:
UvLFD-1696:
Uolrîch is captured by two of his vassals, Pilgerîn of Karsse and Weinolt, in his castle Frowenburc: On the third day after St. Bartholomew’s Day, around midday, Uolrîch takes a rest after his bath when the two men enter his castle and ask for their lord. Uolrîch rises willingly to welcome his vassals. After a meal, Pilgerîn persuades Uolrîch to send his servants away to arrange a hunt for them. As Uolrîch remains alone with the two men and their squires, they draw their knives and drive all the servants, Uolrîch’s wife and children out of the castle, except for Uolrîch’s son whom they take hostage. Rumors of Uolrîch’s captivity prompt more than 250 of his friends to come to his rescue.
Motif References:
R 4 Surprise capture
R 41.1 Captivity in castle
P 50.0.2 (Bm) Knight who acknowledges no overlord [Allegiance: loyalty and disloyalty of vassals]
UvLFD-1718:
As Uolrîch’s friends approach Frowenburc, Pilgerîn puts a rope around Uolrîch’s neck and threatens to hang him from the window unless his men withdraw from the castle. Uolrîch urges them to refrain from besieging the castle.
Motif References:
R 110 Rescue of captive
M 500 (Bm) Threats
UvLFD-1722:
Since Uolrîch is sure to die in his captivity, he takes a bread-crumb for lack of bread into his mouth as Holy Communion. He has to buy his life with his property and is fettered with a huge chain. He sings a new song in honor of his lady. [47th minnesong]
Motif References:
V 39 Sacrament – miscellaneous motifs
R 51.2 Prisoners confined in chains
R 70 Behavior of captives
UvLFD-1728:
After one year and three weeks of captivity, Uolrîch is released through the intervention of the newly appointed Margrave Meinhart of Görtze, but has to leave both his sons and two daughters behind as hostages and to vacate his castle. Uolrîch regains his cheerfulness by a smile of his lady. [48th minnesong] Excursion into the nature of love and the prerequisites of a lasting relationship. Praise of Uolrîch’s lady. [49th minnesong] His songs are sung in Styria and Austria at a time when the nobility’s depravity caused them to do harm to each other, robbing, pillaging, neglecting the service of ladies. [50th minnesong]
Motif References:
R 121 Means of rescue from prison
UvLFD-1753:
Uolrîch gives advice to the ladies: virtuous demeanor and prudent choice of a honorable lover. [51st minnesong]
Motif References:
UvLFD-1767:
Advice for the men: courteous conduct towards the ladies and faithfulness. [52nd to 53rd minnesong]
Motif References:
UvLFD-1779:
Praise of female virtues. [54th minnesong] A lady’s heart equated with paradise. [55th minnesong] Reflections on the lips of Uolrîch’s lady. [56th to 58th minnesong] Uolrîch turns red and white from love.
Motif References:
T 24.5 Boy [girl] turns red and white from love
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