Ulrich von Etzenbach, Wilhelm von Wenden (<1297)
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Miscellaneous Romances
Ulrich von Etzenbach, Wilhelm von Wenden (<1297)
Rosenfeld, H.-F. (ed.): Ulrich von Etzenbach, Willehalm von Wenden. (=DTM 49) Berlin 1957.
UvEWW-1:
Author’s prayer to God. He praises the trinity and God’s incarnation, begs for remission of his sins and inspiration for his poetry which deals with heathens’ conversion to Christianity and the life of Saint Willehalm of Parrit. The preliminary has been provided by master Heinrich der Walch.
Motif References:
UvEWW-103:
A widely respected heathen sovereign dies in Wendenlande and leaves an 11 year old son behind who is called Willehalm. Before his death, the lord has betrothed his son to a girl of the same age. The duke’s counselors and all his subjects are loyal to the young successor who aspires after leading an honorable life.
Motif References:
T 61 Betrothal
V 301.1 (Li) The high-minded, noble heathen
UvEWW-147:
Following his counselors’ advice, Willehalm sends letters to his fiancée’s father and asks him to appoint the day when he could fetch his bride. The father sends his answer and conducts his daughter to Willehalm’s country.
Motif References:
UvEWW-198:
Beautiful tents are pitched on a field for the bride’s reception. Willehalm arranges that beautiful seats and baldachins, food and beverages are provided for the noble guests. The guests are entertained by mounted games and dancing. As night is drawing on, children bring candles. The wedding night is postponed till the next day, since Willehalm has not yet obtained knighthood.
Motif References:
P 53.1 (Bm) Knighthood as prerequisite to marriage
T 136.1 Wedding feast
P 634 Feasts
UvEWW-288:
Willehalm is dubbed knight together with other nobles the following morning. Music is played with tambourines, trombones and string instruments and mounted games (buhurde, tjost) are held. The marriage is consummated in the following wedding night.
Motif References:
P 53 (Bm) Obtaining knighthood
T 160 Consummation of marriage
P 561 Tournaments
UvEWW-336:
The next morning Willehalm bestows precious presents on his guests and clothes and horses on the itinerant entertainers. Willehalm begs his father-in-law to advise him how to rule his country.
Motif References:
W 11.2 Munificent monarch
UvEWW-359:
Willehalm assembles his vassals for a law-court. They calculate Willehalm’s revenues which the country is due to pay (zins, urbor). Ministers are reinstalled in their offices: stewards, chamberlains and cupbearers (truhsaeze, kameraere, schenken, spisaere). The duke assesses taxes upon towns (pfunde, unzen, zolle, munzen). He also has an income from crop yield of cereals (korngelt). Three times a year Willehalm holds law-court. He judges robbers, murderers and thieves and sometimes imposes the death penalty.
Motif References:
P 510 Law courts
P 533 Feudal tribute
P 541 Law-making
P 548 Miscellaneous legal customs [problems]
UvEWW-405:
Willehalm and his wife live happily together. Praise of her virtue. Willehalm reigns over a peaceful country. He and his wife are generous sovereigns and worship the god Jupiter. One day Willehalm holds court and assembles his subjects.
Motif References:
P 510 Law courts
UvEWW-454:
Willehalm notices pilgrims among the people and orders a knight to invite them to stay in town till he has spoken with them. The knight provides lodging for the pilgrims. After the law-court has ended mounted games are held. Willehalm invites the pilgrims and asks them also about their religious belief. They answer that they believe in Christ.
Motif References:
P 190 Other social orders - miscellaneous
N 760 Other accidental encounters
UvEWW-503:
As Willehalm hears the name of Christ, he is enchanted by the word. The name of Christ is always in his mind, is his comfort and joy, so that he considers learning more about the meaning of this name.
Motif References:
V 211 Christ
V 331 Conversion to Christianity
D 1719 Possession of magic powers - miscellaneous
UvEWW-555:
Willehalm wants to leave his court secretly and go to the land where he could get to know Christ.
Motif References:
P 16.1 King (prince) retires from world (becomes hermit [monk, pilgrim], swineherd [beggar])
R 220 Flights
V 530 Pilgrimages
J 910 Humility of the great
K 2370 Miscellaneous deceptions
UvEWW-591:
The duke orders his chamberlain on pain of death to keep his secret and bring him a grey garment and simple shoes, staff and hat. The chamberlain obeys and brings secretly what he has been told. Willehalm hides the clothes beneath his bed. Praise of Willehalm’s virtues.
Motif References:
P 361 Faithful servant [vassal]
UvEWW-692:
Before he leaves, the duke assembles his servants and rewards their services with land and gifts. Praise of Willehalm’s attitude towards his subjects.
Motif References:
UvEWW-723:
Willehalm is fond of going secretly into his chamber, putting off his precious clothes and slipping on a poor garb. After some time he changes the clothes again and leaves his chamber. The duchess notices his behavior and, together with a maid-servant, searches his room for some clue. She finds the hidden clothes.
Motif References:
N 440 Valuable secrets learned
J 910 Humility of the great
UvEWW-813:
The duchess excels over all other women of her time in beauty. Praise of her virtue and of all virtuous women.
Motif References:
F 575.1 Remarkably beautiful woman
UvEWW-900:
At night when the duchess lies in bed with her husband she inquires about the things she has found beneath the bed. The duke answers that someone must have concealed the things there and promises to find out who it was, as his wife starts to weep, asserting that she would not be happy until she knows the purpose of the hidden clothes. He begs her to keep her discovery to herself.
Motif References:
T 299 Other aspects of married life - miscellaneous
UvEWW-974:
Despite of the couple’s sincere love for each other, the duke is determined to leave his court. He wants to get to know more about Christ and secretly puts aside gold in order to sustain himself later and give it to the poor in Christ’s honor. He abjures Machmet and other heathen gods.
Motif References:
V 331 Conversion to Christianity
UvEWW-1050:
One night Willehalm puts on his poor garb, but as he is about to leave the bedroom, his wife notices him and implores him to stay.
Motif References:
P 210 Husband and wife
T 299 Other aspects of married life - miscellaneous
K 2370 Miscellaneous deceptions
UvEWW-1151:
The duchess rejects Willehalm’s request that she should reign the country in his absence, asserting that women are often disregarded by vassals when they rule without a husband.
Motif References:
UvEWW-1236:
The duchess reminds her husband that she will give birth soon. As Willehalm does not change his mind, his wife wishes to join him on his dangerous pilgrimage. Willehalm reluctantly consents.
Motif References:
UvEWW-1364:
The next morning the duchess advises her husband to invite his vassals for a court feast. He follows her advice and sends letters to the lords who arrive at court in May. Praise of female nature. Willehalm arranges that beautiful tents are pitched on a field, precious baldachins, seats, which are decorated with carpets and feather-pillows, and tables set up.
Motif References:
P 634 Feasts
UvEWW-1515:
Guests’ arrival. Music is played and knights hold mounted games in honor of the duchess, who enters the festival ground and welcomes the guests. After that she takes seat under her tent. Then the duke approaches; in front of him ride pages and musicians with tambourines and trombones. Also violins, flutes and rottes (kind of harps) are played at his arrival. The duke welcomes and greets the lords.
Motif References:
UvEWW-1609:
Tables and seats are put up for the meal. Chamberlains bring silver bowls and white towels. Servants (spîser) place white rolls on tables. Willehalm orders his knights to provide the noble ladies with water. The women are dressed in green silken cloth from Arabia, which is interwoven with gold threads.
Motif References:
UvEWW-1648:
The knights hold riding games (joste). The duchess takes a seat after all women have received water. The duke waits till all noble ladies have sat down. Three different dishes, mulberry wine, mead, and wine are served. Trombones and horns are played, after that musicians play violins in front of the dining nobles. The guests are also entertained by string-music.
Motif References:
UvEWW-1710:
After the meal the tables are removed and water is offered. The women put wreathes over their gebende (head-dress). Knights and noble ladies dance a round-dance. Willehalm arranges riding games (bûhurt). As night draws on, candles are brought.
Motif References:
UvEWW-1765:
On the last evening of the feast Willehalm and his wife give precious parting gifts to their guests and to the musicians. Willehalm begs his guests to pledge loyalty to him and to each other. The vassals raise their hands and declare that they will always obey his orders. Duke and duchess bow before them and leave.
Motif References:
W 11.2 Munificent monarch
M 100.0.1 (Li) Oath of allegiance
UvEWW-1859:
While all the others are asleep, Willehalm and his wife put on pilgrims’ clothes. One chamberlain, who will follow the couple, has prepared food for them (ham, bread and two bottles of wine). They leave.
Motif References:
P 56.1 (Bm) Knight [noble] becomes pilgrim [monk]
UvEWW-1913:
As the guests want to take their leave the next morning they are informed that the duke and his wife have disappeared. The search for the couple has no success. The vassals grieve over their lord’s and lady’s absence.
Motif References:
UvEWW-1955:
A wise noble comforts the others, reminding them of the duke’s last words before he left and concluding that the couple must be alive still. He advises to send messengers who should seek for the duke and his wife and to vow a public peace (lantvride). The duke’s income from rates, law-courts, coins and tolls should be registered and guarded carefully, the vassals also take care of the lord’s servants.
Motif References:
P 14.15.1 (Old, wise) Counsellors of court [King’s council]
W 34 Loyalty
P 50.0.2 (Bm) Knight who acknowledges no overlord [Allegiance: loyalty and disloyalty of vassals]
UvEWW-2107:
The wise noble is elected governor; he is supposed to rule the country during the lord’s absence. All nobles have to take a vow that they will obey his orders together with all their subjects, no matter whether they are judges, office-holders, municipal judges or countrymen. All swear by their gods.
Motif References:
M 100.0.1 (Li) Oath of allegiance
M 119.2 Swearing by (clan) gods
P 193 (Bm) Guardian [regent]
UvEWW-2161:
The duke and his wife need eight days to pass through the woods. They come to a castle and a town which is ruled by the country’s sovereign. The town is situated at the sea-shore. The duchess gives birth to twin sons under miserable circumstances. Willehalm tears pieces of his garment off and wraps the infants into it. The chamberlain fetches wine and bread from the town.
Motif References:
T 581 Place and conditions of childbirth
T 587 Birth of twins
T 685 Twins
UvEWW-2283:
The duke has learnt that big merchant ships use to anchor at this town’s harbor. As his wife is too weak to suckle the infants, he orders the chamberlain to go to town without his wife’s knowledge and ask if one of the Christians there would like to buy his children. The chamberlain finds two merchants who are willing to give some money for the boys.
Motif References:
P 230 Parents and children
UvEWW-2327:
The chamberlain takes away the children while the duchess is asleep. She dreams that she holds two young lions in her lap, both touching her heart with their right claws. In her dream, an old lion takes away the cubs. She awakens and is told by her husband that the infants have been entrusted to a nurse. The chamberlain goes into town to look for lodging and finds it in a widow’s house.
Motif References:
Z 150 Other symbols
V 515 Allegorical visions
D 1810.8 Magic knowledge from dream
UvEWW-2393:
The hostess is a virtuous woman and receives Willehalm and his feeble wife despite their poor appearance in a very friendly way. Through their behavior she notices that her guests are of noble birth and must once have been rich and powerful. The widow takes a meal with the woman, her chamberlain with Willehalm.
Motif References:
W 12 Hospitality as a virtue
H 41 Recognition of royalty [nobility] by personal characteristics or traits
N 820 Human helpers
UvEWW-2459:
In the same room with the sleeping duchess, maids are working: some engage in making embroidery, others are sewing or weaving. The duke and the duchess awaken in the evening. Dinner is served and the hostess cuts the food for her guests. Women and men eat separately.
Motif References:
UvEWW-2553:
Willehalm secretly sends the chamberlain to the harbor to find a ship which would take him as passenger. His servant finds a ship which leaves in two weeks time. Willehalm takes one third of his gold and gives it to the widow, asking her to lodge them for some time. She accepts the gold only to keep it safe for the duke. Willehalm hesitates to leave his wife behind but does not want to risk her life on the dangerous voyage.
Motif References:
P 210 Husband and wife
T 299 Other aspects of married life - miscellaneous
K 2370 Miscellaneous deceptions
UvEWW-2677:
The day the ship is about to leave Willehalm leaves his wife while she is still sleeping. On board of the ship he prays to Christ for whom he has left his beloved wife and children, begging to be reunited with them some day.
Motif References:
V 50 Prayer
UvEWW-2724:
The duchess is told about her husband’s disappearance the next morning. She wishes that the god Jupiter puts an end to her life and swoons. The hostess and two maids are very much concerned about her and give her wine. Having recovered consciousness, the duchess tears her skin and hair. Her hostess tries in vain to console her and invites her to stay in her house.
Motif References:
F 1041.21.7 Swooning from grief
UvEWW-2871:
Willehalm arrives in Jerusalem and dispatches the chamberlain to find lodging in a Christian’s house. A host receives his guest cordially, noticing Willehalm’s knightly appearance under his poor clothing. The young duke is not more than 20 years old and has a handsome complexion. His host provides him with everything he needs.
Motif References:
H 41 Recognition of royalty [nobility] by personal characteristics or traits
V 535 Pilgrimage to Jerusalem
N 835 Wealthy (powerful) man as helper
UvEWW-2927:
The host asks about Willehalm’s descent and is entrusted with his guest’s gold and told the purpose of his voyage. Willehalm tells him that he has abjured the heathen gods Jupiter, Apollo and Tervigant and abandoned his rank and his family. He starts to weep and wishes that Christ will help him to be reunited with his family.
Motif References:
UvEWW-3021:
The host tells Willehalm that he ought to be baptized before he gets to know Christ. He teaches him about the virgin birth of Christ, the redemption from sins, Virgin Mary, the trinity, Creation, Christ’s death and resurrection and about baptism as prerequisite to Christian life. The author remarks about the etymology of “ave”: “ave!” means “ane we” (without pain).
Motif References:
V 301 (Li) Heathens and Christians
UvEWW-3339:
Willehalm longs to be baptized and knighted. For that reason, he obtains knightly equipment (horses and precious clothes), one companion and 12 servants. His host also provides a christening robe made of white velvet and offers to be his christening godfather.
Motif References:
Z 71.8 Formulistic number: twelve
V 81 Baptism
P 296.1 Godfather
V 332 Baptism of heathen
UvEWW-3426:
Together with his host and his entourage, Willehalm rides out of the town. There they find the patriarch surrounded by knights who hold mounted games (poinder). Willehalm participates in the games and his facility and beauty attract everybody’s attention.
Motif References:
P 426 Clergy
F 575.2 Handsome man
UvEWW-3483:
The patriarch rides towards Willehalm and welcomes him. His host tells him about Willehalm’s identity and the purpose of his voyage and begs the patriarch to baptize the heathen duke and after let him obtain knighthood. The patriarch consents and politely invites the host and his guest for a meal the next day.
Motif References:
UvEWW-3571:
In those times many heathen countries oppose the Christians: the sultan of Babylon, the sovereign of Baldac, king of Hallap and many others. The next day the patriarch receives Willehalm in his palace, introducing him to bishops, prelates, counts, lords and knights. Willehalm has his seat next to the patriarch. After the meal the patriarch gives presents to Willehalm: silken textiles, belts and golden cups.
Motif References:
V 301 (Li) Heathens and Christians
V 350 Conflicts between religions
UvEWW-3650:
Willehalm is baptized the next day and on the following Sunday dubbed knight together with some nobles of his retinue. The patriarch commends Willehalm’s instruction to a wise chaplain. Among other things Willehalm learns the Arabic language. The patriarch tells his guest that heathens are opposing the Christians and asks him to support the Christians in the military conflict.
Motif References:
P 53 (Bm) Obtaining knighthood
V 332 Baptism of heathen
UvEWW-3739:
Willehalm assures the patriarch of his help, begging that he and his companions would be allowed to receive the cross before battle. The patriarch leads them to the Holy Sepulcher and gives them crucifixes which they hang around their necks. He also equips the knights with horses and armor.
Motif References:
V 86 Sign of the Cross
UvEWW-3777:
After the sultan has sent his challenge to battle the patriarch sends letters to the brethren of the hospital of Our Lady, the brethren of the St John’s hospital, the king of Ubiâne and to the Templars. The sultan declares that he wants to conquer the Holy Sepulcher. Christian armies also come from countries beyond the sea. Warriors confess and receive the Holy Communion.
Motif References:
V 110 Religious buildings [and institutions]
P 550.1.3 (Tu) Declaration of war
P 551 Army
UvEWW-3821:
Willehalm chooses a new coat of arms: he wears his white christening robe over his armor and has a golden cross sewed on the front and the back. He and his companions have white pennants depicting a golden cross on their helmets. Shields and caparisons have the same color. 12 other followers receive white gowns made of precious textiles which show a red cross. Templars wear the same garments.
Motif References:
Z 71.8 Formulistic number: twelve
V 86 Sign of the Cross
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols - coat-of-arms
UvEWW-3849:
The sultan, sovereigns of Damascus and Hallap gather their forces outside of Jerusalem. Trombones, tambourines, horns, drums and flutes played. Heathens have their idols (Jupiter, Appollo, Machmet, Tervigant) set up on special wagons which are decorated with gold and precious stones. Beautiful tents are pitched which have been transported by camels and dromedaries.
Motif References:
V 1.11 Worship of idols
UvEWW-3903:
Willehalm distinguishes himself in battle as best fighter, killing and wounding many heathens. Finally the heathen army is defeated: the army leaders flee, many warriors are either killed or captured. Praise of Willehalm’s virtue.
Motif References:
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
UvEWW-4012:
Willehalm still has the duchess in mind. He has her name written in golden letters on pennants which are fixed on his lances. His wife Bene also remains faithful to her husband and leads a chaste life though many men woo the beautiful woman.
Motif References:
T 210 Faithfulness in marriage
T 360 Chastity and celibacy - miscellaneous
UvEWW-4074:
One day the country’s sovereign dies without leaving a heir or a wife. The ensuing struggle between various pretenders to the throne leads to war. After five years of war, the lords hold court together in a town in order to elect one sovereign. Also the townsmen are invited.
Motif References:
P 17 Succession to the throne
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
UvEWW-4112:
As the lords do not reach an agreement, a wise townsman warns them against ruining their own property and social position through war. He advises them to choose 28 men who then should elect four nobles. The remaining 24 should choose among the four candidates. In case the 24 do not reach an agreement, the four are supposed to take an oath not to part till one sovereign is elected among them.
Motif References:
UvEWW-4203:
As both committees fail in electing one superior, the townsman suggests Bene and praises her virtue and prudence. Lords should elect her as sovereign for one year and then decide again. All lords consent and vow that they would acknowledge her superior position.
Motif References:
UvEWW-4327:
A delegation of lords visits the duchess. They fall on their knees before her, hand a golden head-dress over to her and inform her of the election. The lady hesitates but is finally led to the old sovereign’s palace. In the following week vassals are invited to court. Lords and citizens of the towns come to acknowledge her as sovereign.
Motif References:
L 160 Success of the unpromising hero (heroine)
UvEWW-4402:
Bene orders the lords to appoint nobles to several offices: superior judge, chamberlain, steward, cupbearer and master of the kitchen. The court’s income from maritime trade should be administered by a designated merchant, revenues from law-courts, coins and tolls by a chamberlain, who is also supposed to visit the towns from time to time and see whether the citizens obey the laws. The country prospers under Bene’s reign.
Motif References:
UvEWW-4470:
Bene and Willehalm still long for each other with sincere and strong love. Excursus about the nature of love. Bene confides her sorrow to her former hostess.
Motif References:
T 210 Faithfulness in marriage
T 299 Other aspects of married life - miscellaneous
UvEWW-4593:
Bene is disappointed that Jupiter and other gods have not answered her prayers and now prays to Christ that he may help her being reunited with her husband. She states that if Christ grants her request, she and Willehalm would submit to his commands. She orders a boy to keep watch on the ships which cast anchor in the harbor and invite every pilgrim or stranger to come to her court.
Motif References:
V 50 Prayer
V 57 Purpose of prayer
H 152.1.1 Woman entertains every traveler in the hope of finding her husband
M 177.1 Vow to become a Christian
UvEWW-4639:
Praise of Bene’s virtue. The author equates Bene to queen Guta of Bêheimlant. Praise of Guta and Wenzelabe of Bêheim. Etymology of the name “Bêheim”. Author mentions his name (Uolrîch von Etzenbach) and his model Wolfram von Eschenbach.
Motif References:
UvEWW-4719:
After one year the lords agree on having Bene continue her reign and vow that they will acknowledge every husband if she should decide to marry. Thus Bene longs for Willehalm’s return and prays to Christ.
Motif References:
M 150 Other vows and oaths
UvEWW-4798:
One day Danish pilgrims arrive at the harbor and are conducted to Bene. They tell her that they have made a pilgrimage to the Holy Sepulcher where Christ is buried. They also teach her about Christ’s resurrection and presence in the Holy Communion. At the Holy Sepulcher pilgrims are delivered from sins and many sick are healed.
Motif References:
V 110 Religious buildings [and institutions]
V 301 (Li) Heathens and Christians
UvEWW-4881:
The pilgrims inform Bene about the battles between Christians and heathens who strive to conquer the Holy Sepulcher. Once 10,000 heathens were defeated by only 1000 Christian warriors. They tell her about one knight who excels all others and describe his coat of arms, his age and his conversion to Christian faith.
Motif References:
V 301 (Li) Heathens and Christians
L 325 (Bm) Victory over superior force
V 350 Conflicts between religions
UvEWW-4959:
The pilgrims give an account of a single combat between Willehalm and one of the sultan’s relatives who had challenged Willehalm. The heathen had Jupiter pictured on his helmet and shield and proposed that the defeated should abjure his religion. The opponents first fought with lances, then with swords and, after having both lost shields and horses, they continued fighting on foot. Willehalm finally defeated the heathen who was then baptized.
Motif References:
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols - coat-of-arms
M 290 Bargains and promises - miscellaneous
V 331 Conversion to Christianity
V 332 Baptism of heathen
P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
UvEWW-5049:
The duke’s sons grow up separated from each other as children of paupers without knowing their real descent. They differ from other children in behaving in an extraordinarily virtuous way. The merchants who have bought the boys are Christians. Their foster mothers envy the boys their noble beauty and treat them in a bad way.
Motif References:
L 123 Pauper hero
P 251.5 Two brothers
P 272 Foster mother
T 685 Twins
F 1099 Additional marvels
UvEWW-5105:
One day a foster brother starts a fight with the 18 year old son of the duke. The foster mother punishes the innocent and reveals to him that he is not her natural son, showing him the rag he has been wrapped in when he was bought. She shouts at him, beats and finally casts him out. Nevertheless the boy behaves friendly towards her and takes his leave. The duke’s other son suffers the same fate and also carries the rag he was wrapped in as a baby with him. Both boys become beggars.
Motif References:
H 118 Identification by shred of garment (of rescued princess used as bandage for wound)
S 322.4 Evil stepmother [foster mother] casts boy forth
UvEWW-5211:
The brothers accidentally meet outside of Lunden without recognizing each other. They tell their life-story to each other and make friends.
Motif References:
N 733 Accidental meeting of brothers
UvEWW-5289:
As it is growing dark, the two companions enter the town in search for a host who would receive them out of mercy. God leads them to the house of a virtuous man who is willing to give them lodging. He recognizes the boys’ nobility by their virtuous behavior and notices their resemblance to each other. After dinner they tell him where they come from and what they seek in Lunden.
Motif References:
H 41 Recognition of royalty [nobility] by personal characteristics or traits
V 201 God
N 817.0.1 God as helper
N 835 Wealthy (powerful) man as helper
UvEWW-5390:
The host tells his wife that he wants to adopt the two boys since they have no children of their own. His wife consents. He orders his servants to treat the boys like his sons and provides good clothes for both. The host happens to be one of the king’s confidants and one day takes the boys with him to court.
Motif References:
T 670 Adoption of children
UvEWW-5477:
King Honestus admires the boys’ bearing and wants to have them at his court. The merchant is sad because of the king’s request but obeys his lord. The king promises to treat them well. He gives horses, precious clothes and six servants to the boys. A tutor instructs them about courtly behavior. The king appoints them as cupbearer and steward. Everybody praises the young men.
Motif References:
N 836 King as helper
UvEWW-5569:
The brothers keep the rags they have received from their foster mothers hidden, but deliberate at the same time on finding out their real descent. They beg the king for his permission to leave. He consents on the condition that they will return within one year.
Motif References:
Z 72.0.1 (Bm) Year time limit on quest
H 1245.1 (Bm) Quest to be accomplished within one year
H 1381.2.2 Child seeks unknown parent
UvEWW-5647:
The two young men pass through several countries. Wherever tournaments are held, they take part and thus preserve their wealth. They miss to return within the time limit and are ashamed to go back, fearing the king’s anger.
Motif References:
UvEWW-5700:
They leave Christian land, cross the sea and accidentally come to the town where their mother reigns. Little by little their property diminishes and they have to give their horses to their host. Even though they dwell in a heathen country, both want to remain there and decide to become robbers and live in the woods together with their servants.
Motif References:
P 59.1 (Bm) Impecunious knight
P 475 Robber [thief, outlaw, pirate]
UvEWW-5796:
One day six merchants pass through the wood and are held up by 14 robbers who take all their goods and horses. The merchants get away uninjured and relate the assault to Duchess Bene who proscribes the robbers. They should be either killed or brought into law-court. Other outlaws join the robbers.
Motif References:
N 399 Additional unlucky accidents
UvEWW-5883:
One day Willehalm arrives as pilgrim in Bene’s town. He has been honored by the patriarch of Jerusalem and other nobles who accompanied him on his way back for three days. Bene’s messenger brings the pilgrim to her court where he is invited to stay for eight days. Willehalm’s beard and hair have turned gray as he was concerned about the war against the heathens.
Motif References:
H 195 (Bm) Failure to recognize
N 741 Unexpected meeting of husband and wife
F 1041.7 Hair turns gray from terror [sorrow]
UvEWW-5952:
Willehalm is welcomed by the duchess. Though she does not recognize her husband, she feels attracted to him and turns pale and red because of love. She has a meal with him and offers him lodging in the town. After he has left, she feels sad. Willehalm does not recognize his wife either and searches for her in vain.
Motif References:
T 24 The symptoms of love
P 210 Husband and wife
T 299 Other aspects of married life - miscellaneous
UvEWW-6050:
Willehalm tells the duchess about Christ and she asks him about a famous knight who fights against the heathens in the Holy Land and is named Willehalm. He answers in a humble way and refers to Christ’s power and the impotence of the heathen gods.
Motif References:
UvEWW-6161:
Willehalm teaches Bene about the Christian faith.
Motif References:
V 301 (Li) Heathens and Christians
UvEWW-6219:
Bene calls up all subjects who are fit for military service for the fight against the robbers. Willehalm warns against risking the life of many people in hopeless combat and suggests sending negotiators who should exhort the robbers to submit themselves on condition that they are pardoned.
Motif References:
P 475 Robber [thief, outlaw, pirate]
J 612 Wise man considers whom he is attacking
UvEWW-6362:
Bene gathers her counselors. They approve of Willehalm’s suggestion and advise her to beg Willehalm to negotiate with the robbers. Having ascertained that Bene would pardon the robbers in case of their submission, Willehalm rides towards their abode in the forest.
Motif References:
P 14.15.1 (Old, wise) Counsellors of court [King’s council]
P 14.15.2 Court messenger
UvEWW-6409:
He forces his way on foot through the thicket of the wood until he meets his sons. Though they do not know each other, they feel a bond between them from the first moment they met. The sons welcome their father with a bow and tender seats to him, his followers and the chaplain.
Motif References:
P 233 Father and son
P 475 Robber [thief, outlaw, pirate]
N 731 Unexpected meeting of father and son
UvEWW-6484:
Willehalm supposes that the two are brothers but is told that they are just friends. He speaks first with the older one of them and learns that the 14 robbers are Christians. Willehalm recognizes the youth’s noble descent and demonstrates to him the consequences of their criminal way of living.
Motif References:
H 41 Recognition of royalty [nobility] by personal characteristics or traits
UvEWW-6558:
Willehalm makes inquiries about the youth’s native country, family and name. The boy is named Boizlabe and gives an account of what has happened to him, showing Willehalm the shred he was wrapped in as a baby. He recognizes his son and offers him to be reconciled with the duchess. Boizlabe eagerly agrees to the proposal.
Motif References:
H 11.1 Recognition by telling life history
H 118 Identification by shred of garment (of rescued princess used as bandage for wound)
H 152 Recognition through accidental encounter
UvEWW-6625:
The youth fetches his companion who also tells Willehalm his name and life history and shows him the shred of garment he has been wrapped in as a baby. Willehalm rejoices but says nothing to his sons. He proposes that they should choose 12 companions and, together with them, join him on his way to the duchess’ court the next morning. Both agree.
Motif References:
Z 71.8 Formulistic number: twelve
UvEWW-6683:
Bene welcomes Willehalm cordially who praises the two boys’ virtue and nobility, and suggests admitting them into the courtly service.
Motif References:
UvEWW-6739:
Bene rejoices while Willehalm speaks about two young men and feels strong affection for her unknown sons as she sees them from the distance. She welcomes and pardons them and gives horses, clothes and money to both. One boy she appoints as cupbearer, the other as steward.
Motif References:
P 231 Mother and son
N 735 Accidental meeting of mother and son
UvEWW-6816:
Willehalm wants to take his leave because he fears that he is not allowed to live according to his Christian faith. Bene assures him of his liberty and convinces him to stay. She even takes part in masses.
Motif References:
UvEWW-6877:
Bene notices Willehalm’s secret sorrow as he starts to weep whenever he catches sight of one of his sons. As she beseeches him to tell the reason for his grief, he discloses to her that he is the father of the two young men.
Motif References:
UvEWW-6999:
Willehalm relates his life history: his marriage, secret departure from court, birth of sons, how he wrapped the infants into shreds of his garment and sold them, his meeting with the grown-up sons and that he recognized them by the rags. Bene recognizes her husband without disclosing her identity.
Motif References:
H 11.1 Recognition by telling life history
H 118 Identification by shred of garment (of rescued princess used as bandage for wound)
P 230 Parents and children
K 2370 Miscellaneous deceptions
UvEWW-7099:
Willehalm declares that he would not risk his soul’s salvation or abandon Christ for his wife’s sake though he longs for her very much. He wishes that Christ may inspire love for the Christian faith in her and thinks about his father-in-law amid tears, hoping that he is still alive. Bene assures him that he would see his father-in-law soon since she has received a messenger from him lately.
Motif References:
V 440 Other religious virtues
UvEWW-7190:
Bene assembles her counselors, tells them her life history and announces her departure since her newly arrived husband is Christian and she would convert as well. Her husband’s subjects would be willing to be baptized, so he longed to return to his home country. She reminds the lords of their vow to acknowledge whomever she should choose as husband and to obey his orders.
Motif References:
P 14.15.1 (Old, wise) Counsellors of court [King’s council]
V 331.5 Conversion to Christianity through love
UvEWW-7290:
The counselors decide to convert to Christianity rather than breaking their oath and lose the duchess. They guarantee that also each lord’s subject would convert on their order.
Motif References:
V 331 Conversion to Christianity
UvEWW-7332:
Bene calls her vassals (counts, barons, knights, townsmen) to court, sending letters to invite them for the feast. She also invites Willehalm’s vassals and her parents. All of them rejoice at the tidings that Bene and Willehalm are still alive.
Motif References:
P 634 Feasts
UvEWW-7447:
One day Bene notices her parents’ approach from a window. She doubts the heathen gods and gives thanks to Christ for being reunited with her parents. She hurries to meet and welcome them joyfully. The parents are begged to conceal the family relation between them till she reveals everything to Willehalm.
Motif References:
V 331.1.3 Conversion to Christianity because the heathen gods prove to be less powerful
UvEWW-7552:
The guests are led to a place where beautiful tents are pitched. There they are accommodated and evening dinner served. Willehalm recognizes his father-in-law and his vassals but is not recognized himself.
Motif References:
UvEWW-7615:
The next morning Willehalm receives precious garments, horses and armor for him and his two companions. Bene invites them to take part in the tournament. Willehalm’s helmet has a golden crest and an eagle made of azure and gold pictured on his shield. The caparison is made of the same material as his surcoat. The tournament is appointed for the time before breakfast. Bene begs Willehalm to fight in her country’s honor.
Motif References:
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols - coat-of-arms
P 561 Tournaments
UvEWW-7692:
Willehalm puts on his armor after mass. Before the tournament starts, Willehalm overcomes four knights in jousts. The tournament starts and Willehalm, his companions and sons form the Christian group and overcome the heathens. The tournament lasts till noon, and in the end Willehalm disclaims what he has won from the guests.
Motif References:
UvEWW-7775:
The combatants enter court clad in beautiful clothes. Meal has already been prepared; men and women have seats separately.
Motif References:
UvEWW-7825:
Bene takes her sons by their hands and walks up to where the lords have had their meal. She tells them her life history (pilgrimage with husband, birth of twins, separation from husband, selling of sons, help of heathen woman, becoming sovereign over the country) and declares the boys to be her sons and Willehalm her husband. She falls down at Willehalm’s feet.
Motif References:
H 11.1 Recognition by telling life history
H 194 (Bm) Recognition only through direct revelation of identity
P 210 Husband and wife
P 230 Parents and children
T 299 Other aspects of married life - miscellaneous
N 820 Human helpers
K 2370 Miscellaneous deceptions
UvEWW-7941:
Willehalm exhorts her to be baptized; otherwise they could not live as husband and wife. She promises to renounce the heathen gods and convert. Bene’s vassals acknowledge Willehalm as their lord and promise to receive baptism lest he and his wife should leave the country for a Christian land.
Motif References:
V 331.5 Conversion to Christianity through love
V 331 Conversion to Christianity
UvEWW-8057:
Heathen idols are broken to pieces. Willehalm’s vassals welcome their lord and show him whom they have chosen for regent during Willehalm’s absence. The faithful vassal has gathered great fortune for his absent lord. Willehalm thanks his vassals and exhorts them to convert to Christianity. They agree and Willehalm praises Christ’s power. Also Bene’s parents want to be baptized.
Motif References:
W 34 Loyalty
P 50.0.2 (Bm) Knight who acknowledges no overlord [Allegiance: loyalty and disloyalty of vassals]
P 361 Faithful servant [vassal]
UvEWW-8137:
Willehalm sends messenger with letters to bishop Albânus of Norway, whom he begs to come to baptize the people. The bishop follows the invitation. Bene, her parents and the highest nobles are baptized. People receive blessings from the bishop. Later the bishop also baptizes countrymen and teaches Christian belief.
Motif References:
V 332 Baptism of heathen
UvEWW-8214:
Feast takes place: Boizlabe and Dânus obtain knighthood and the bishop blesses their swords. Other nobles are dubbed knights together with the brothers. Willehalm, Bene, her parents and Boizlabe and Dânus generously distribute presents. At the bishop’s request many minsters are built. Bishop Albân informs pope Cornêlius, who dwells with the emperor Alexandrus, about the conversion. Bene’s parents return home.
Motif References:
P 53 (Bm) Obtaining knighthood
P 634 Feasts
UvEWW-8273:
Willehalm as good and powerful lord. His dominion extends from Denmark to Walchen country. At the age of 60 he and his wife retire into a cloister and cede the reign to their sons. Willehalm counsels them till his death. Author’s prayer to Virgin Mary for Wenzel II. and Guta.
Motif References:
P 16.1.4 Father abdicates in favor of son
P 16.1 King (prince) retires from world (becomes hermit [monk, pilgrim], swineherd [beggar])
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