Rudolf von Ems, Willehalm von Orlens (1235/40)
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Miscellaneous Romances
Rudolf von Ems, Willehalm von Orlens (1235/40)
Junk, V. (ed.): Rudolf von Ems, Willehalm von Orlens. Berlin 1905, 2nd ed. (=DTM 2) Dublin 1967.
RvEWO-1:
Prologue (with acrostic: Ruodolf Ioannes) about virtue and honor. The story deals with courtly matters: love, knighthood, faithfulness, virtue.
Motif References:
RvEWO-133:
Willehalm of Orlens is a virtuous and mighty French prince; the king is his nephew (swester sun). He is married to Elye of Normandy, the daughter of Count Bernant. Husband and wife love each other dearly. The county Hanegou is subject to Willehalm and obliged to pay 5000 marks every year. The generous lord shares the profit from his property with others.
Motif References:
P 12 Character of kings
T 299 Other aspects of married life - miscellaneous
RvEWO-253:
Count Jofrit, Willehalm’s equal in virtue and power, reigns in Brabant, which adjoins Hanegou. Both lords lay claim to the other’s men and lands. King Vilippe forbears intervening in the conflict since Willehalm is his uncle and Jofrit his cousin.
Motif References:
P 548 Miscellaneous legal customs [problems]
RvEWO-317:
Finally, to settle the conflict, a law court is convened which is attended also by the French king and the bishops of Remis and Paris. Both princes are accompanied by noble counselors (one of them is the lord of Luteche) and, as they start to quarrel, are asked to leave the settlement to their men, but the counselors’ mediation has no success either.
Motif References:
P 510 Law courts
RvEWO-392:
Willehalm suggests settling the dispute in a battle: a lance should mark the border between Hanegou and Brabant. The one who wins the lance has also secured the victory in the struggle over the land. With Jofrit’s consent, time and place of the combat are determined: in 20 weeks’ time between the towns Avens, Vivins, Marle and Nivel. Truce is to be kept until then.
Motif References:
H 217 Decision made by contest
RvEWO-465:
Both lords return home and gather knights.
Motif References:
P 551 Army
RvEWO-574:
Willehalm takes his leave of Ylie. At Avens, he waits for the reinforcement of his troops: Lehgunt of St. Gilis brings 500 knights, archers and foot men with him. At Willehalm’s request, they all bear coat of arms. List of names of the lords who come to Willehalm’s assistance (2500 knights altogether).
Motif References:
RvEWO-683:
Jofrit gathers his followers as well: 2000 knights. Beautiful tents are pitched. The lance, decorated with a red pennant, has been fixed at the top of a hill which separates the two enemy troops.
Motif References:
RvEWO-752:
Willehalm and Jofrit, both riding out to inspect the enemy camp, accidentally meet on top of the hill. The latter challenges the former to a deciding duel, but Willehalm objects that many knights have come to receive reward for their service and the decision should not be anticipated but brought about by a combat fought by two troops of equal number.
Motif References:
N 760 Other accidental encounters
RvEWO-841:
Having returned to his camp, Willehalm recognizes that he has 500 knights more than his opponent. Since he suspects Jofrit of preparing a surprise attack from behind, he directs the surplus riders to shield the army from ambushes.
Motif References:
P 557.0.1 (Li) Council of war
RvEWO-911:
Willehalm divides his army into five troops led by princes with 400 warriors each. The fifth troop should not attack until the fight culminates and the fighters grow weary. Jofrit also arranges the formation of his army and divides it into four groups.
Motif References:
P 552 Battle formations
RvEWO-981:
The next morning, after mass and breakfast, the knights take up position. Music (reise-note) played for the knightly procession.
Motif References:
RvEWO-1034:
Description of Willehalm’s appearance: shining armor, silken surcoat showing his coat of arms, shield fitted with ermine and sable fur figuring a lion, shining helmet.
Motif References:
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols - coat-of-arms
RvEWO-1063:
In the ensuing battle, many warriors are killed. Fierliun slays Adam von Selanden in a single combat and, unconcerned about his wounds, many other enemies. In a fight against Margrave Willegin, Fierliun loses his gauntlet, and thereupon Willegin cuts off his hand and finally kills his opponent and many of his followers.
Motif References:
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]
RvEWO-1174:
Burgrave Belloys attacks Jofrit of Brabant, who kills his opponent in the following single combat. As the French warriors begin to withdraw, Perrin emerges with an auxiliary troop and the furious battle continues.
Motif References:
RvEWO-1250:
As Willehalm kills Count Sigenant, the French troops regain strength. Jofrit and Count Lembekin von Leven are brave warriors. The latter breaks through the enemy lines several times and is then attacked by Prince Lotier of Loringen. He defends himself with a knife and overcomes his opponent. The French soldiers start singing a battle song (wiclaise).
Motif References:
RvEWO-1305:
The army of Brabant withdraws in disarray. While Willehalm pursues the fleeing Jofrit, the French take the defeated captives and capture booty.
Motif References:
R 220 Flights
R 260 Pursuits
RvEWO-1365:
Jofrit flees into the city Nivel. Willehalm follows close on his heels and, reckoning that he will find the inhabitants on his side, shouts his war cry and enters the castle through the inner gate. As the castle guards perceive the enemies’ war cry, they let down the portcullis (schlegtor) outside the gateways, and Willehalm is trapped together with only ten of his men.
Motif References:
N 399 Additional unlucky accidents
RvEWO-1397:
Willehalm encourages his followers. Meanwhile the city’s soldiers have gathered and kill the intruders’ horses. As already seven knights are killed, Jofrit tries to keep the soldiers from slaying Willehalm, but he is not heard and even wounded by his own men. Willehalm is killed and the remaining knights are forced to surrender.
Motif References:
Z 200 Heroes
RvEWO-1485:
Taking revenge for Willehalm’s death, Jofrit forces the murderers’ families into exile. He bewails Willehalm’s demise, tearing his hair and clothes, and has the corpse lain out on a bier. Men and women commence a loud lamentation.
Motif References:
P 12.9.1 (Bm) King mourns dead enemy
V 69 Funeral rites - miscellaneous
F 1041.21.6 Tearing hair and clothes from excessive grief
RvEWO-1554:
Jofrit begs the two surviving French knights to testify for his grief over Willehalm’s death and sends them back to their army camp. Having learned about Willehalm’s fate, his men tear their hair and clothes from grief.
Motif References:
P 548 Miscellaneous legal customs [problems]
RvEWO-1600:
The lords hold counsel over the question how to take revenge on Jofrit, but one of the knights who have accompanied Willehalm gives evidence for his true grief over his opponent’s demise. Relatives take care of the burial of the dead lords and ministerials.
Motif References:
V 69.1 All dead are buried after battle
RvEWO-1632:
The same day Willehalm is killed, his wife Ylie gives birth to a son. She sends messengers to convey the good news to her husband. The messengers hear of their lord’s death and return, spreading the tidings among the servants but concealing them from Ylie. The servants’ sorrowful behavior arouses Ylie’s suspicion that something terrible has happened.
Motif References:
T 682 Hero a posthumous son
RvEWO-1674:
As a young squire unwittingly reveals the truth to Ylie, she convokes the country’s administrators, telling them what has happened and requesting them to take an oath of allegiance to herself and her son. The lords renew their oaths and inform Ylie that the funeral will take place in two days time. She insists on participating in the funeral against the counselors’ will and wants her child to be baptized before the funeral.
Motif References:
M 100.0.1 (Li) Oath of allegiance
RvEWO-1751:
The funeral takes place in a monastery which is situated on Willehalm’s allod: mass, reading of the Gospel, sacrificial offerings. Willehalm’s relatives (among them the French king) and vassals attend the funeral.
Motif References:
V 69 Funeral rites - miscellaneous
Z 200 Heroes
RvEWO-1807:
The bishop escorts Ylie into the minster, where she makes her offerings. As she insists on seeing her husband one more time, the king has the coffin broken open.
Motif References:
T 211.9 Excessive grief at husband’s or wife’s death
RvEWO-1850:
Ylie’s lament: she praises her husband’s virtue, commends him to God’s mercy, bemoans that her presentiment was fulfilled and wishes to die.
Motif References:
D 1812.4 Future revealed by presentiment: “knowledge within”
RvEWO-1929:
She kisses her husband’s head, clasps the corpse to her body, blood comes out of her nose and mouth and finally she succumbs to her grief and dies.
Motif References:
T 81.3 Girl [wife] falls dead on lover’s [husband’s] body
T 211.9.1 Wife dies of grief for death of husband
F 1041.1.2.1 Lover dies beside dying [dead] sweetheart
F 1041.21.1 Illness from excessive grief
RvEWO-1967:
The two corpses are buried in one coffin. Praise of Ylie and the female virtue in general.
Motif References:
T 86 Lovers buried in same grave [coffin]
RvEWO-2052:
Soon after the funeral the child is baptized. The boy is christened Willehelm and entrusted to the French king’s guardianship.
Motif References:
V 81 Baptism
P 193 (Bm) Guardian [regent]
RvEWO-2095:
The author addresses “vrou Riuwe” (Lady Regret).
Motif References:
RvEWO-2143:
Dialogue (beginning with an acrostic: Willehalm) between “Vrou Aventiure” (Lady Adventure) and the author, who refers to other poets and their works, mentioning also two literary critics, his patron and his patron’s wife.
Motif References:
Z 138 (Tu) Adventure personified: “Aventiure”
RvEWO-2335:
Having recovered from his wounds, Jofrit sends a messengers to the French king, asking him to convene a law court in order to ascertain that he, Jofrit, is not guilty of Willehalm’s death.
Motif References:
P 14.15.2 Court messenger
P 510 Law courts
RvEWO-2438:
The law court takes place six weeks after; the French king decides that Jofrit’s oath of innocence is a sufficient proof that he is not guilty. Jofrit is reconciled with his accusers.
Motif References:
M 150 Other vows and oaths
RvEWO-2473:
Soon afterwards, Jofrit requests from the king to be charged with the guardianship of Willehalm’s son, since he has no own children. After a discussion with his counselors, the king determines to entrust Jofrit with the child’s education. The overjoyed Jofrit takes the opportunity to propose the release of the prisoners who have been captured after the battle.
Motif References:
P 270.4 (Bm) Hero raised by foster parents
T 670 Adoption of children
RvEWO-2589:
Jofrit takes the child with him to Brabant. His wife has some maids and a wet nurse take care of the boy. Jofrit’s vassals are urged to acknowledge the infant as their future lord and take an oath of fealty to him.
Motif References:
M 100.0.1 (Li) Oath of allegiance
RvEWO-2644:
Two vassals are appointed as trustees of the child’s property for 12 years.
Motif References:
RvEWO-2670:
The Countess Elyse and her maidens take care of the beautiful and loveable child. At the tender age of four, the boy begins to show remarkable generosity as a trait of his character thus proving his noble birth.
Motif References:
W 11.2 Munificent monarch
Z 251 Boy hero
F 575.3 Remarkably beautiful child
T 615.3 Precocious wisdom [virtue]
RvEWO-2748:
Jofrit sets beside the five-year-old boy 12 noble companions who are of the same age and has him learn Latin. At the age of eight, he is taught how to ride, fight (on horse and on foot), sing, play chess, shoot and hunt (with hounds and birds). The young Wilhelm shows remarkable generosity.
Motif References:
Z 71.8 Formulistic number: twelve
T 680 Care [and education] of children - miscellaneous motifs
RvEWO-2822:
One day, an impoverished squire begs him for help and receives clothes. During their conversation, Wilhelm discovers that Jofrit is not his real father and that his father has died years ago; thereupon he determines to enter the service at the court of the English king Rainher.
Motif References:
H 150 Circumstances of recognition
Z 252 Hero at first nameless [unaware of birth]
T 670 Adoption of children
RvEWO-2899:
Jofrit begs Wilhelm’s forgiveness for having been involved in his father’s murder and, since he intends to make Wilhelm his heir, invites him to accompany him to the imperial court in Cologne before he sets off for England.
Motif References:
RvEWO-3049:
Jofrit and his knights are welcomed in Cologne.
Motif References:
RvEWO-3107:
The emperor and the princes receive Jofrit and vouchsafe him the right to leave his fief to Wilhelm, who receives it out of the emperor’s and the magnates’ hands.
Motif References:
P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
RvEWO-3139:
As Wilhelm and his companions return to their lodging on the way through the town, people admire his extraordinary beauty. Again he shows remarkable generosity.
Motif References:
F 575.2 Handsome man
RvEWO-3213:
Back home in Brabant, Wilhelm is acknowledged as new lord.
Motif References:
RvEWO-3247:
Wilhelm requests from Jofrit to be allowed to set out for England: he seeks to acquire knightly honor and the benevolence of noble ladies. Jofrit promises to provide him with the necessary equipment and companions (ten knights, six squires, marshal, butler, seneschal and chamberlain).
Motif References:
RvEWO-3386:
Rules of conduct given to Wilhelm.
Motif References:
RvEWO-3451:
Wilhelm sets off for London, where king Rainher has his residence. He is received at court and appeals to the king to be admitted into his service, which is granted to him.
Motif References:
RvEWO-3539:
Wilhelm invites the court nobles to his lodgings, offering them a delicious meal and precious gifts. In the afternoon, the king personally introduces the young hero to the queen and her entourage.
Motif References:
RvEWO-3718:
The most beautiful maiden of all is the seven-year-old princess Amelie. The king introduces Wilhelm as Amelie’s playmate. The two children are especially fond of each other.
Motif References:
T 23 (Bm) Childhood sweethearts
T 31.1 Lovers’ meeting: Hero in service of lady’s father
F 575.3 Remarkably beautiful child
RvEWO-3843:
Back at his lodgings, Wilhelm sends precious gifts to the royal family. He makes it his habit to invite nobles into his house and enjoy courtly entertainment with them. During his sojourn at the royal court, he enjoys the company of the princess and the other noble ladies and learns how to fight in tournaments.
Motif References:
RvEWO-3965:
Discourse on courtly love (hohe minne, nidere minne).
Motif References:
RvEWO-4033:
Wilhelm falls in love with his nine-year-old playmate Amelie and feels pain from his longing.
Motif References:
T 24.1 Love-sickness
T 29 Falling in love - miscellaneous
RvEWO-4161:
He declares his love to the young girl, who hardly understands what he is talking about. As she realizes that he proposes marriage to her, she feels embarrassed and withdraws from him.
Motif References:
T 57 Declaration of love
T 75 Man scorned by his beloved
RvEWO-4343:
Wilhelm’s lovesickness intensifies. Discourse on the nature of love.
Motif References:
RvEWO-4525:
One year later, Wilhelm accidentally finds Amelie praying alone in the chapel. He snaps at the chance and addresses her;, as he finds her still rejecting his love, vows not to eat nor drink until she yields to him.
Motif References:
T 81.2.1.1 Scorned lover (woman) threatens to kill self
M 149 Vows concerning sex - miscellaneous
RvEWO-4616:
Due to his vow, Wilhelm refuses food and is soon taken seriously ill. The court society is alarmed about the news of his impending death.
Motif References:
T 93 Fate of disappointed lover
F 1041.21.3 Refusal to eat [drink, sleep] from excessive grief
RvEWO-4751:
The queen is solicited to visit Wilhelm before he dies and takes her daughter with her. As she speaks to the half unconscious boy, he neither hears nor recognizes her.
Motif References:
RvEWO-4846:
Amelie is allowed to speak alone to the sick boy. In her presence, he revives and she promises to give him her love. After she has left him, she realizes that she has fallen in love as well. Discourse on the nature of true love.
Motif References:
T 29 Falling in love - miscellaneous
R 169 Other rescuers
RvEWO-5049:
All the town’s inhabitants are glad about Wilhelm’s recovery (he starts to eat again and regains his health), and Wilhelm has clothes distributed among them.
Motif References:
RvEWO-5096:
Wilhelm visits the royal family and meets Amelie, who tells him that he should first obtain knighthood back in his country and undertake feats of valor in her honor and then return before winter to marry her.
Motif References:
P 53.1 (Bm) Knighthood as prerequisite to marriage
RvEWO-5201:
Wilhelm holds counsel with his men, announcing his plan to obtain knighthood at Whitsun. Their hosts are repaid for their services.
Motif References:
RvEWO-5244:
In the evening, Wilhelm performs his service at the king’s table and then begs for allowance to leave.
Motif References:
RvEWO-5295:
After a consultation of his counselors, the king provides the boy and his 12 companions with horses, clothes, money and jewels.
Motif References:
Z 71.8 Formulistic number: twelve
RvEWO-5388:
Wilhelm takes his leave of the English ladies. Wilhelm tells the queen that he will find an educator for himself who instructs him in the rules of knighthood. The women shed tears at his parting.
Motif References:
RvEWO-5433:
Amelie speaks secretly to Wilhelm: she has appointed the page Pitipas to be the love messenger between them and bestows a ruby brooch upon Wilhelm which she has worn on bare skin.
Motif References:
T 41 Communication of lovers
T 59 (Bm) Love tokens
RvEWO-5493:
The next morning, people weep at Wilhelm’s parting and accompany him for one mile. Wilhelm sends his marshal to announce his arrival in Brabant. The preparations for the feast have to be started soon, since it is only 13 weeks till Whitsun. Wilhelm is heartily welcomed in his home country. Guests are invited.
Motif References:
RvEWO-5594:
Prologue (acrostic: Amelie), including the topos of modesty: the author asks those having artistic sense to be lenient with his inadequate description of Wilhelm’s accolade.
Motif References:
RvEWO-5689:
The feast commences. The guests (among them the French king Philippe) are welcomed and accommodated partly inside the town, partly in the open in tents.
Motif References:
P 634 Feasts
RvEWO-5761:
Wilhelm receives the sword together with 60 comrades in military shields and his 12 squires. 100 knights form his entourage. After the mass, mounted games (buhurt) are held, observed by the noble women, of whom many fall in love with the beautiful Wilhelm. Courtly entertainments.
Motif References:
P 53 (Bm) Obtaining knighthood
RvEWO-5840:
During the feast, a tournament is announced which is to take place at Komarzi in six weeks time and will attract knights from all over France. The guests stay up all night celebrating, and at the end of the three days feast, the lords and Wilhelm bestow precious presents on the entertainers and the poor.
Motif References:
P 52.2 (Li) Knight in service of a lady
P 561 Tournaments
H 1561.1 Tests of valor: tournament
RvEWO-5915:
Wilhelm sets off for the tournament, 200 knights forming his retinue. His marshal is sent to look for accommodation in Komarzi and two alleys are granted to Wilhelm. The 15-year-old son of the French king, Gillelm of France, resides in the adjacent buildings.
Motif References:
RvEWO-5957:
Wilhelm’s arrival in Komarzi: his servants, squires and knights form a procession into the town. In their lodging, carpets are spread and fragrant herbs and grass are strewn.
Motif References:
RvEWO-6069:
The young French king welcomes Wilhelm and tells him that he has been prevented from attending his accolade because he had to help a relative defend himself against King Gilbert of Arragun.
Motif References:
RvEWO-6136:
The two nobles pledge friendship. Wilhelm dispatches a page to find out who participates in the tournament. The page returns and tells him the names of the participants he has been able to identify.
Motif References:
P 311.5 Covenant of friendship
RvEWO-6232:
As soon as Wilhelm is about to leave for the field of combat, Pitipas comes up to him, delivering a letter from Amelie which is sealed with a ring. The squire remains with Wilhelm so that he may observe how the knight serves his lady and report this to Amelie.
Motif References:
T 41 Communication of lovers
RvEWO-6336:
At the field of combat, several jousts take place. Wilhelm jousts with King Gilbert of Arragun. He wears a helmet which has a golden tree with silver leaves as crest, and a green surcoat. Both men utter the shout “spera sper!”. Wilhelm unhorses his opponent.
Motif References:
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols - coat-of-arms
P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
RvEWO-6417:
Enraged by Wilhelm’s victory, Arialt of Provence challenges him to a joust. The remembrance of Amelie strengthens the exhausted Wilhelm. Their combat is announced and commented on by the heralds. Finally, Wilhelm unhorses his opponent.
Motif References:
RvEWO-6489:
Having returned to his lodging, Wilhelm gathers knights around him who will fight on his side.
Motif References:
RvEWO-6529:
Before the tournament, the team leaders consult together over the conditions of the contest. Wilhelm suggests having each country form a team so that no “kumpanie” can arise, that is no agreements between fighters. The knights also discuss the prizes and the formation of the teams.
Motif References:
RvEWO-6601:
The tournament commences the next morning. Several knights are taken captive; Wilhelm distinguishes himself as most excellent fighter of all. Calls of the heralds.
Motif References:
RvEWO-6795:
Wilhelm gives generously to the poor. After a meal, he withdraws into a separate chamber to write a letter to Amelie. Praise of Wilhelm’s eloquence.
Motif References:
RvEWO-6907:
Pitipas is admonished to remain loyal to Wilhelm and Amelie and dispatched with the letter. Wilhelm tells him where he is to be found when he returns with Amelie’s message: attending a tournament at Poye which starts at the 15th of August.
Motif References:
RvEWO-6951:
Wilhelm tells Gillem, the young French king, that he is going to visit an old relative in Normandy before the tournament at Poy. Count Bernant gives his grandson Wilhelm a warm welcome.
Motif References:
RvEWO-7027:
He recalls his daughter’s death and tells Wilhelm that his dear wife has died from grief on learning the sad news.
Motif References:
F 1041.1.2 Death from grief for death of lover or relative
RvEWO-7068:
Bernant resigns in favor of his grandson, leaving all his possessions and land to him. Wilhelm receives the vassals’ homage and oath of allegiance.
Motif References:
P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
RvEWO-7096:
A sparrow hawk is offered as prize for the winner of the annual tournament and a palace has been built next to the field of the tournament so that the noble women are able to watch the knights. The ladies arrive six days before the beginning of the tournament and elect a “queen” among them who is supposed to dispense “justice of Love” during the tournament according to feudal jurisdiction.
Motif References:
P 561 Tournaments
H 1561.1 Tests of valor: tournament
RvEWO-7129:
The lady who is considered the most beautiful, chaste and noble of all will, at the end of the tourney, present the sparrow hawk to the most distinguished knight and honor him with a kiss. The daughter of Olivier of Ploys is chosen as most beautiful woman, surpassed only by Amelie. Meanwhile, Wilhelm has assembled 400 knights for the tournament.
Motif References:
RvEWO-7203:
Wilhelm has his tents pitched on a field adjacent to the ladies’ palace. List of knights who form the French team and of their opponents (2000 participants all together).
Motif References:
RvEWO-7280:
Description of Wilhelm’s camp, which is constructed in the shape of a castle (tents connected with barriers onto which 100 shields are hanged, gates formed by cloths).
Motif References:
RvEWO-7327:
Wilhelm and King Avenis of Spain excel in the jousting of the vespers tourney, which is watched by a big audience. Description of the two knights’ appearance. Wilhelm bears golden lions as coat of arms, his helmet crest is a tree decorated with golden bells.
Motif References:
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols - coat-of-arms
RvEWO-7430:
The two combatants engage in a furious single combat. Soon brave Wilhelm manages to unhorse his opponent leaving the horse to the heralds; they joyfully praise him and proclaim his renown and generosity. Incensed by the Spaniard’s defeat, King Gerion challenges Wilhelm but is unhorsed as well.
Motif References:
P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
RvEWO-7518:
After the vespers tourney, Wilhelm returns to his camp. There the fine young man shows hospitality to his guests and generosity to the entertainers, who gather around nobody else but him, being the centre everything. During the meal, Pitipas brings a letter from Amelie.
Motif References:
RvEWO-7638:
The tournament commences the next morning. The knights joust and soon many of them are unhorsed and captured. Wilhelm prevails over all other knights in the same way as a gyrfalcon drives away the little birds. Many participants are compelled by poverty to fight not for honor or the prize but for material profit. Wilhelm’s team wins.
Motif References:
F 679 Remarkable skill - miscellaneous
RvEWO-7808:
Wilhelm has increased his renown more than Gahmuret did before Kanvolais.
Motif References:
RvEWO-7837:
Wilhelm is acknowledged as best knight of the tournament and receives the sparrow hawk and a kiss from the maiden.
Motif References:
RvEWO-7959:
The heralds announce a tournament which will take place between Reschun and Kurnoy in six weeks time. The defeated team decides to seek revenge at this tourney, except for King Avenis of Spain, who has to settle a dispute with the English king at a law-court.
Motif References:
P 510 Law courts
RvEWO-8015:
Wilhelm writes a love-letter to Amelie, promising to return to her before the beginning of winter.
Motif References:
RvEWO-8115:
King Avenis and King Rainher are reconciled and the English king confirms this covenant of peace with the promise to marry his daughter to Avenis. Both kings arrange the preparations for the wedding.
Motif References:
T 108.1 (Bm) Girl (to be) married against her will [without her consent]
M 201.5 Covenant confirmed by marriage
RvEWO-8154:
King Rainher interprets his daughter’s grief over her betrothal to the Spanish king as the typical shame of a maiden.
Motif References:
RvEWO-8204:
Amelie resolves to send a letter to Wilhelm to inform him of her father’s marriage-arrangement.
Motif References:
RvEWO-8322:
Meanwhile, Wilhelm has taken up his residence in Kurnoy, the place of the tournament. The teams are divided the same way as at the preceding tourney, but the French are superior in number. Wilhelm announces the arrival of King Alan of Ireland and Kaiver, the king of the Scots, whose knights would balance the number of participants.
Motif References:
P 561 Tournaments
H 1561.1 Tests of valor: tournament
RvEWO-8437:
At the vespers tourney, Wilhelm surpasses all opponents and nobody dares to joust with him. Back at his lodging, he proves his generosity towards the poor.
Motif References:
RvEWO-8528:
Pitipas delivers Amelie’s letter. Wilhelm consults his friends and determines to take 300 of his men with him to England and abduct the maiden.
Motif References:
R 225.2 Lovers elope to prevent girl’s marriage to undesired fiancé
T 323 Escape from undesired lover by strategy
RvEWO-8744:
In Barbefluot, Wilhelm learns that the king of England resides in Parcemus, where the wedding is supposed to be celebrated. He lands at a remote port, five miles away from the capital town Parcemus. Meanwhile, the kings of Ireland and Scotland have arrived at Kurnoi and the big number of knights causes difficulties in the division of the teams.
Motif References:
RvEWO-8811:
Having debarked in a port which is surrounded by woods, Wilhelm sends Pitipas to Amelie to inform her of his plan to meet her in the evening. He discovers that king Avenie has his tents pitched on the other side of the wood and dispatches a page to spy in the camp.
Motif References:
RvEWO-8865:
Pitipas returns and tells Wilhelm that Amelie will wait for him in the herb garden adjacent to the palace. Wilhelm meets Amelie, who is in the company of two maidens, and takes her with him.
Motif References:
RvEWO-8991:
The wedding is thought to be celebrated the same evening. The English king recognizes his daughter’s absence and finally learns from the two maidens that she has been abducted. He considers Wilhelm to be the abductor and gathers his men to pursue him.
Motif References:
T 151.4 (Bm) Girl saved from forced marriage at last minute
R 260 Pursuits
RvEWO-9113:
Overwhelmed by joy at being reunited with his beloved, Wilhelm does not pay attention to find the right way through the wood, and finally they get lost. At daybreak, they are already surrounded by their pursuers.
Motif References:
RvEWO-9169:
Wilhelm chooses the place at a stone bridge which leads over a marshy river as best for the combat between his small band of men and the big troop of English knights. In the course of the fighting, Wilhelm unhorses Avenis which causes a fracture of his leg.
Motif References:
RvEWO-9274:
One of Avenis’s highest liegemen, Count Stefan, pierces Wilhelm’s left shoulder with his lance, of which a piece remains in the wound. Wilhelm is compelled to offer security and is taken captive; all his companions, including the princess, are brought to the English court.
Motif References:
R 355 Eloping girl recaptured by parents
RvEWO-9320:
Many locals intercede on behalf of Wilhelm, who has behaved generously towards them during his sojourn at the English court. Count Stefan refuses to leave his captive in the hands of King Rainher.
Motif References:
RvEWO-9384:
The count and the king make the judgment on Wilhelm subject to the lords’ counsel.
Motif References:
RvEWO-9435:
The counselors’ decision: Wilhelm will be released from captivity, but deprived of his hereditary lands and banished (until the king himself calls him). The piece of the lance in his wound should not be extracted until a queen has mercy upon him and removes the splinter. To prevent him from seducing other women, he is supposed to remain silent as long as Amelie herself begs him to speak. Thus, Wilhelm will do penance without being dishonored.
Motif References:
M 90 Judgments and decrees - miscellaneous motifs
Q 213 Abduction punished
Q 430.1 Imposition of tabu as punishment
Q 431.5.2 Banishment for abduction of bride (girl)
Q 535.1 Penance: not to speak
Q 589 Punishment fitted to crime - miscellaneous
Q 590 Miscellaneous punishments
Q 595 Loss or destruction of property as punishment
RvEWO-9511:
Wilhelm takes an oath to abide by the decree and takes leave of his men, dispatching them with a message for Jofrit of Brabant.
Motif References:
M 185 Vow to abide by laws [decree]
RvEWO-9632:
Amelie loses consciousness as she learns that Wilhelm has been mortally wounded.
Motif References:
F 1041.21.7 Swooning from grief
RvEWO-9661:
The author reproaches “Frouwe Minne” (Lady Love) with letting her followers (Wilhelm, Amelie, Avenis) down.
Motif References:
RvEWO-9734:
Prologue (with acrostic: Duzabele): the necessity of the audience having the right attitude to receive the story. The author complains of the uncouthly behavior of many of his contemporaries.
Motif References:
RvEWO-9891:
Jofrit and Elyse of Brabant learn of Wilhelm’s fate and the count obliges his highest vassals to swear that they will acknowledge no other lord than Wilhelm as long as he is alive.
Motif References:
M 100.0.1 (Li) Oath of allegiance
RvEWO-9937:
At the bank of a river, Wilhelm accidentally meets a ferryman who receives the mute knight in his home. Wilhelm keeps his host from removing the iron splinter which sticks in his wound.
Motif References:
N 820 Human helpers
RvEWO-10003:
Wilhelm rides onward the next morning and meets another knight who offers to lead him to a feast which is held by King Coradis of Cornwall and King Amelot of Norway on an island near the coast. Duzabel, Amelot’s beautiful daughter, attends the feast as well.
Motif References:
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper
RvEWO-10090:
The two knights are welcomed in the queen’s tent. Duzabel begs Wilhelm to allow her extract the splinter from his wound and he accepts her offer. His wound is later treated by several physicians.
Motif References:
N 837 Queen as helper
RvEWO-10158:
King Amelot takes Wilhelm with him to Norway.
Motif References:
N 836 King as helper
RvEWO-10209:
The fracture of Avenis’s leg has healed, and he now reminds the English king of the marriage arrangement, but Amelie vows to die rather than being forced to marry. She prefers celibacy to an unwanted marriage.
Motif References:
M 149.2 Vow to die rather than marry unwelcome suitor
T 311 Woman averse to marriage
RvEWO-10333:
Faced with Amelie’s denial, Avenis decides that he would rather become a monk than marry a reluctant woman. He leaves the English court.
Motif References:
RvEWO-10441:
Wilhelm’s sojourn at the Norwegian royal court: though he never utters a word, his renown as virtuous knight spreads across the country.
Motif References:
RvEWO-10483:
While Amelot is holding counsel, envoys of King Witekin of Denmark deliver a letter in which the Danish king accuses Amelot of having occupied two of his islands and demands from him to receive the land as fief.
Motif References:
P 14.15.2 Court messenger
RvEWO-10581:
Taking the letter as declaration of war, Amelot turns pale and red from anger since he regards the island as his hereditary property. Also King Gierrart of Estonia and Gutschart of Livonia have sent letters, declaring their alliance with the Danish king. The envoys refuse gifts according to their oath.
Motif References:
P 550.1.3 (Tu) Declaration of war
RvEWO-10680:
Witekin and the others have provoked the conflict out of envy of the rich Norwegian king. They have summoned their armies (knights and sergeants) while the envoys were conveying their message to Norway.
Motif References:
P 551 Army
K 2369 Military strategy - miscellaneous
RvEWO-10773:
Witekin’s army invades Norway, pillaging and burning enemy land and seizing castles. Finally, the invaders besiege the capital town Galverne.
Motif References:
P 550.1.1 (Li) Aggression: rebellion; usurpation; invasion; assault
P 557.0.4 (Li) Siege
RvEWO-10815:
Amelot garrisons his best castles and gathers his allies (Coradis of Cornwall, King Gillamur of Wales and the lords of Northumbria and Glorgalaiz).
Motif References:
RvEWO-10877:
Near Galverne lies the beautiful castle Johanis, where the queen, the princess and their entourage take up their residence. Wilhelm enjoys the amiable company of the ladies.
Motif References:
RvEWO-10923:
The women resolve to secretly provide Wilhelm with the necessary equipment, so that he is able to partake in the fighting at Galverne. He is attired as red knight (surcoat, blanket, banner, horse, helmet, shield and lance all in red). The ladies take two pages into their confidence who lead Wilhelm to Galverne.
Motif References:
R 222 Unknown knight (Three days’ tournament)
F 527.1.1 Red knight
RvEWO-11070:
As King Girrat of Estonia perceives the red knight, he decides to joust with him. The joust takes place near the castle. As the king is unhorsed by Wilhelm and loses consciousness, some knights leave the castle and take their master to safety.
Motif References:
R 5 Capture on field of battle
P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
RvEWO-11133:
Wilhelm returns to the wood, where the pages await him. They disarm the knight and wash the dirt off of him. He has breakfast and hides in the wood during the day. He does not return to Johanis until night falls.
Motif References:
RvEWO-11197:
The castle’s burgrave Morant demands from his captive, the king of Estonia, to agree to a peace treaty, or else he would be killed. Separate peace is made between the army of Estonia and the besieged town.
Motif References:
M 234 Life spared in return for life-long service [material compensation, peace treaty]
RvEWO-11210:
The next day, Gutschart of Livonia seeks an opponent for a joust on condition that Gierart of Estonia should be released in case of his victory. Morant resolves to wait for the return of the red knight.
Motif References:
RvEWO-11271:
As Wilhelm learns about Gutschart’s challenge, he thinks of Amelie and is thus encouraged to fight in her honor. Duzabel begs him to undertake the jousting and Wilhelm agrees.
Motif References:
RvEWO-11352:
Wilhelm is dressed as white knight.
Motif References:
F 527 Person of unusual color
RvEWO-11384:
Single combat between the unrecognized Wilhelm and Gutschart. The latter is overthrown by his opponent and his horse killed so that he is forced to offer security. He requests to hear his opponent’s name but Wilhelm remains silent. Burgrave Morant and some other knights take the defeated prisoner into the castle.
Motif References:
P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
RvEWO-11453:
Like the day before, Wilhelm withdraws into the wood and waits till evening until he returns to Johanis. The besieged believe that God has sent an angel to liberate them. Soon afterwards, Amelot approaches with an huge army. The besiegers produce hostages to secure the captured kings’ lives.
Motif References:
R 75 Surrendering
RvEWO-11542:
Witekin takes to flight, but Amelot has already seized his ships so that he is forced to fight. The Norwegians, being superior in number, overcome Witekin’s troop and take the king and his men prisoners.
Motif References:
W 121 Cowardice
R 220 Flights
RvEWO-11616:
Amelot is advised by Morant to claim compensation from the three kings and to take 30 hostages from each of them until his loss will be remunerated. Amelot treats the noble hostages in a very respectful way.
Motif References:
W 11.5 Generosity toward enemy
M 201.6 Covenant confirmed by hostages
P 533.1 Hostages
RvEWO-11712:
The captured king Wittekin falls in love with Amelot’s beautiful daughter.
Motif References:
T 29 Falling in love - miscellaneous
RvEWO-11792:
The abbess of the nunnery on the isle Desylvoys is the English king’s sister Savine, a powerful princess. As the Irish king Alan lays claim to her property with the threat of violence, she opposes his exaction. Thereupon her land is devastated and the castles captured.
Motif References:
P 550.1.1 (Li) Aggression: rebellion; usurpation; invasion; assault
RvEWO-11834:
The abbess turns to king Amelot for help, putting her land under his protection and control. Amelot resolves to summon Alan to answer the suit in his law-court; in case he refuses, Amelot would intervene with military action.
Motif References:
N 836 King as helper
RvEWO-11932:
Morant is dispatched by Amelot and unsuccessfully tries to negotiate peace with king Alan on Savine’s behalf.
Motif References:
P 14.15.2 Court messenger
RvEWO-12019:
Amolt summons his big army and achieves Wilhelm’s help. The Norwegian army lands on the island and soon gets hold of the enemy’s ships.
Motif References:
P 551 Army
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper
RvEWO-12092:
The Norwegians vanquish the Irish invaders and take some captives, among them the Scottish king’s son. King Alan escapes. Wilhelm excels as best fighter and people assume that he has captured the three enemy kings as well. The noble women confirm this assumption by their testimony.
Motif References:
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
RvEWO-12205:
Dialogue between the author and “Vro Aventiure” (Lady Adventure).
Motif References:
Z 138 (Tu) Adventure personified: “Aventiure”
RvEWO-12273:
Savine thanks Amelot for his help and asks his advice on how to achieve reparation for the injuries sustained. On Amelot’s advice, Savine turns to her brother, the English king, for help. He assures her of his support in every matter.
Motif References:
N 836 King as helper
RvEWO-12391:
Amelie suffers from love-sickness. During her sojourn at the English court, Savine is wont to visit her niece daily and learns the story of the love between Amelie and Wilhelm.
Motif References:
T 23 (Bm) Childhood sweethearts
T 24.1 Love-sickness
P 52.2 (Li) Knight in service of a lady
P 53.1 (Bm) Knighthood as prerequisite to marriage
T 75 Man scorned by his beloved
T 93 Fate of disappointed lover
T 108.1 (Bm) Girl (to be) married against her will [without her consent]
M 149 Vows concerning sex - miscellaneous
Q 213 Abduction punished
R 225.2 Lovers elope to prevent girl’s marriage to undesired fiancé
R 355 Eloping girl recaptured by parents
Q 430.1 Imposition of tabu as punishment
Q 535.1 Penance: not to speak
Q 590 Miscellaneous punishments
F 1041.21.3 Refusal to eat [drink, sleep] from excessive grief
RvEWO-12571:
As Amelie describes her beloved, Savine thinks of the mute knight at the Norwegian court and tells her niece about him and his great deeds (capture of the Scottish king, of Girart of Estonia and Gutschart of Livonia). Savine relates the story how the young queen Duzabel attended to the knight’s wound and removed the piece of lance out of his shoulder.
Motif References:
RvEWO-12738:
Then, Savine plots a plan to contrive the lovers’ reunion: Amelie should join her in returning to her abbey, on pretext of seeking recovery for her health, and meet Wilhelm there.
Motif References:
RvEWO-12792:
The abbess takes leave from the royal couple, explaining that the care for her noble hostages weighs on her mind. She attains the king’s and queen’s allowance to take their daughter with her.
Motif References:
RvEWO-12889:
Departure of Savine and Amelie.
Motif References:
RvEWO-12929:
Amelie’s faithful servant Pitipas accompanies his mistress though he longs to find out about Wilhelm’s fate.
Motif References:
P 361 Faithful servant [vassal]
RvEWO-13027:
Arrival of the two women on the island Desilvoys. Eager to discover the mute knight’s identity, Amelie sends Pitipas to the Norwegian court. The messenger finds Wilhelm in the castle Johannis and returns immediately to his mistress, without having disclosed his identity. Amelie persuades her aunt to bring her to Norway.
Motif References:
RvEWO-13157:
In Norway, king Amelot holds a law court and feast on occasion of the hostages’ release. Savine and Amelie arrive at the castle Johanis. Praise of Amelie’s beauty.
Motif References:
RvEWO-13362:
Amelie and Wilhelm meet each other. She releases him from his pledge to keep silent.
Motif References:
T 96 Lovers reunited after many adventures
RvEWO-13445:
Duzabel demands Wilhelm for herself since she has saved his life, and leaves the decision to king Amelot’s judgment.
Motif References:
T 92 Rivals in love
RvEWO-13509:
Amelie and Wilhelm both disclose their identity. Amelot turns out to be related to Wilhelm (Wilhelm’s grandmother is his aunt), which makes a marriage between Wilhelm and Duzabel impossible.
Motif References:
H 11.1 Recognition by telling life history
N 746 Accidental meeting of cousins
RvEWO-13666:
Amelot holds counsel with his men and Wilhelm about the hostages’ release. Wilhelm advises the king to confirm the peace with a marriage between his daughter Duzabel and Witekin; additionally, King Alan should marry his daughter to Amelot’s son.
Motif References:
M 201.5 Covenant confirmed by marriage
RvEWO-13754:
Mutual pledges of friendship between Amelot and the hostages.
Motif References:
M 246 Covenant of friendship
RvEWO-13865:
Two couples – Wilhelm and Amelie, Duzabel and Witekin – celebrate their wedding feast at Amelot’s court.
Motif References:
T 135.8 Two or more weddings at one time as the end of a tale
T 136.1 Wedding feast
RvEWO-13927:
Wilhelm’s and Amelie’s wedding night. On the next morning, after mass and breakfast, gifts are given to the itinerant entertainers.
Motif References:
T 160 Consummation of marriage
RvEWO-14088:
Amelot assembles the lords and declares to dispense Witekin from paying any compensation. He assures Wilhelm of his help in recovering his inheritance from the English king.
Motif References:
RvEWO-14145:
Witekin and Duzabel take leave and arrive in Denmark.
Motif References:
RvEWO-14259:
In Norway, Amelot dispatches count Morant with a letter to England. The English king and the magnates accept Wilhelm as Amelie’s husband because God himself has reunited the lovers (Amelie and Wilhelm).
Motif References:
V 201 God
N 817.0.1 God as helper
RvEWO-14396:
Morant conveys the message that Wilhelm is supposed to wait in Norway for the English king’s envoys who would conduct him home. These envoys are four of the highest magnates: the duke of Gant (Kent), the archbishop of Sante Vit, the archbishop of Eberwic (York) and the bishop of Winchester.
Motif References:
RvEWO-14470:
The bishop of Lunders (London) is sent to invite Jofrit of Brabant to the English court and stands surety as a hostage for the English king’s sincerity.
Motif References:
RvEWO-14547:
The messengers arrive in Norway soon after the wedding of Amelot’s son and Alan’s daughter.
Motif References:
RvEWO-14632:
The English king meets Wilhelm and Amelie on a beautiful heath land between Sante Vit and London and is reconciled with them. Back in London, Wilhelm is reunited with Jofrit of Brabant.
Motif References:
RvEWO-14741:
Feast is held at the royal court.
Motif References:
P 634 Feasts
RvEWO-14787:
Jofrit resigns in Wilhelm’s favor, wishing to sacrifice his worldly honors in order to do penance for his sins.
Motif References:
P 16.1 King (prince) retires from world (becomes hermit [monk, pilgrim], swineherd [beggar])
RvEWO-14876:
Wilhelm and Jofrit return to Brabant.
Motif References:
RvEWO-14981:
Wilhelm declares a peace-keeping truce and enfeoffs his vassals. The English king sojourns in Brabant for one more month.
Motif References:
P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
RvEWO-15070:
After Countess Elise’s death, Jofrit sets off for the Hospital of St John in the Holy Land in order to serve God there. Before he leaves, he teaches Wilhelm the right behavior of a sovereign.
Motif References:
RvEWO-15251:
The countess gives birth to two sons; one named Wilhelm is educated at the English king’s court, the younger, called Jofrit, grows up at the court of his parents.
Motif References:
RvEWO-15279:
The old and sick king of England nominates Wilhelm as his successor and has his vassals acknowledge him as their future lord. He instructs Wilhelm on the virtues of a righteous king before he dies.
Motif References:
P 17.3 Dying king names successor
RvEWO-15337:
After the burial, Wilhelm and Amelie are crowned in the minster and receive the oaths of fealty. Wilhelm convenes the princes to a law-court where they obtain their fiefs and take their oaths. Additionally, he divides the lands between his sons.
Motif References:
P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
RvEWO-15452:
Wilhelm described as ideal sovereign. Pitipas is rewarded with riches and appointed “underschenke”. Ten years later, Wilhelm arranges his sons’ accolade.
Motif References:
RvEWO-15488:
The reconciliation with the Spanish king Avenis is confirmed by the marriage between his daughter and Wilhelm’s son. The other son marries the heiress of Flanders.
Motif References:
M 201.5 Covenant confirmed by marriage
RvEWO-15521:
Seeking God’s mercy, Wilhelm donates hospitals and cloisters, ransoms captives, gives generously to the poor, builds bridges and roads and prohibits tolls and “ungelt”.
Motif References:
P 14 Particular practices of kings
RvEWO-15569:
Wilhelm of England (Wilhelm’s son) bequeaths the Normandy to his descendants. In the author’s days, the French king has taken the land by force since it is adjacent to France. One of Jofrit’s descendants is Count Jofrit of Brabant who recovered the Holy Land and the Holy Sepulcher for Christianity.
Motif References:
RvEWO-15601:
Epilogue: Rudolf’s source text has been bestowed upon him by Johannes of Ravensburg, who had brought it from France. His patron, Butler Kuonrat of Wintersteten, has supported the translation in honor of his lady.
Motif References:
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