HvAEr-1: Erec, the son of king Lac, who is a gallant and valiant knight, is riding with the Queen and her ladies. Soon they see in the distance three people riding in their direction: an unknown knight (Iders, 465), a fair and well-dressed lady and a dwarf (Maliclisier, 1077). The Queen wonders who they could be and Erec asks whether he should find out. But she sends one of her damsel there, who greets the dwarf politely and asks the strangers’ identity. The dwarf rudely refuses to tell her and blocks her way when she wants to ask the knight. The Queen and Erec see him hit her on the head and hands with his whip. The damsel rejoins the Queen who complains bitterly that such a thing has happened.

Motif References:

F 451.5.1.7 Dwarfs serve mortals
F 451.5.2 Malevolent dwarf

HvAEr-66: Erec rides over, tells the dwarf that he acted very badly by striking the maiden and asks the knight’s identity. Again the dwarf answers in a very rude manner and strikes Erec with his whip. Erec wants to take revenge but being unarmed he rides back in great humiliation. He then takes leave from the Queen in order to compensate for what happened to him before the ladies or die in the attempt. He promises to return within three days and finally the Queen grants him her leave. Thinking that it would take him too long if he rode back for his equipment he hurries after the strangers unarmed as he is.

Motif References:

F 451.5.1.7 Dwarfs serve mortals
F 451.7 Possessions of dwarfs
F 451.5.2 Malevolent dwarf
H 1228 Quest undertaken by hero for vengeance.

HvAEr-160: Erec hastens after the strangers and rides behind them without being noticed. In the evening he comes to a castle called Tulmein. Its owner Duke Imain welcomes the knight and his lady. The Duke has held a festival there the past two years and now is holding it for the third time. In the middle of a meadow he has set a sparrow-hawk on a silver perch. The lady who wins the contest at the festival as being the most beautiful will take it as prize. The knight has obtained the prize for his lady twice already by force, and if he manages to take it for the third time he will have it forever more. There are many women there more beautiful than the knight’s lady but because of his prowess no one dares to oppose him.

Motif References:

Z 71.1 Formulistic number: three
P 634 Feasts
H 1596 Beauty contest

HvAEr-218: Erec knows nothing about this event. He does not find any lodging for the night in the market beneath the castle. All houses are fully lodged and in addition Erec is without means not having prepared for this. As well, he is unknown there, so that no one speaks to him or even looks kindly on him. By chance Erec comes to an old building which he thinks to lie empty. When he enters the house however he sees sitting there a man white-haired from age, wearing a sheepskin coat and a hat of the same material. It is evident that he does not enjoy great wealth, although his bearing is most elegant like a noble gentleman. Erec greets him in a courteous way and asks for a night’s lodging which is readily granted.

Motif References:

P 59.1 (Bm) Impecunious knight

HvAEr-308: The old gentleman asks his extraordinarily beautiful daughter to see to the horse of their guest and she obeys willingly. Her admirable body is shining through her ragged and dirty clothes like the lily standing white amid blackthorn. If she were rich, she would lack nothing a woman needs to be admired by all. Her discomfort troubles Erec and he wants to see for his horse himself but the old man insists: They lack servants and so it is right for her to do it. Their poverty is due to war: The old man once has been a mighty count before his enemies robbed him of everything. The guest is provided for as their circumstances permit. Their good will and kindness make up for any lack of luxury. The old man’s name is Coralus, his wife is named Karsinefite and his daughter Enite. The Count Imain who is holding the festival is her uncle.

Motif References:

P 59.1 (Bm) Impecunious knight
Z 65 Color formulas
L 102 Unpromising heroine.
P 336 Poor person makes great effort to entertain guest
F 575.1 Remarkably beautiful woman

HvAEr-440: Coralus tells Erec the story of the beauty contest and that the knight who had ridden in front of him is Iders the son of Niut, who has come with his lady to claim the sparrow-hawk. Erec asks him for help to get vengeance for the injury he had to endure from the dwarf. He wants to ride to the festival with Enite to obtain the beauty prize for her and if he wins the victory he will marry her. Being the son of king Lac he will be a good match for her. Coralus at first thinks the young man is jesting but Erec makes him taking his words seriously. Coralus gives him a splendid armor, a shield and a spear, so that Erec can go to the festival at Tulmein.

Motif References:

T 50 Wooing
T 121 Unequal marriage
L 162 Lowly heroine marries prince (king, [count])
N 825.2 Old man helper
H 1596 Beauty contest

HvAEr-621: When they arrive at Tulmein the Count Imain gives them a friendly welcome, they tell him why they have come. The count offers to dress Enite better, but Erec objects: One should decide on the basis of her person not her dress whether a woman is beautiful. After they have heard mass they are served a meal and then each seeks out the amusement he prefers. Erec comes up with Enite, speaks out loudly that she is the most beautiful woman there and has her take the sparrow-hawk. Iders is annoyed, speaks up scornfully and claims the prize for his lady. They agree that a combat shall decide the matter. A wide ring is cleared for them and they start jousting.

Motif References:

U 110 Appearances deceive
F 575.1 Remarkably beautiful woman
H 1596 Beauty contest

HvAEr-824: When Erec has succeeded in unhorsing his adversary he dismounts and stops. Then they go at each other on foot and continue fighting fiercely until they both are worn out so that they have to sit down to rest. Then their fight goes on. Erec thinks about the shame the knight’s dwarf has caused to him and this and the sight of the lovely Enite helps him to fight with great power so that he finally overcomes Iders who asks for mercy. He promises to perform any service to compensate Erec for any offense he has done him before. After the vow is made Erec threatens to take the dwarf’s hand as punishment for having struck the queen’s maiden and Erec himself. Nevertheless he then has the dwarf whipped as punishment. The dwarf’s name is Maliclisier. Erec tells Iders to ride off to the queen and to deliver himself up to her. He has to tell her all about the matter and that Erec has sent him.

Motif References:

Q 280 Unkindness punished
L 400 Pride brought low
F 451.8 Names for dwarfs
P 555.4 (Bm) Defeated knights [giant, rescued persons etc.] sent under oath to king [lady, queen] (as proof of victory)
H 1561.2 Single combat to prove valor

HvAEr-1099: In the meantime King Arthur has left his castle of Karadigan to hunt the stag and has caught it with his own hands. With this feat goes the right to kiss anyone he wishes of all the maidens. The queen however tells him of her experiences of that same day and asks him to wait until the following morning because Erec has promised to have returned by then.

Motif References:

P 14 Particular practices of kings
F 989.15 Hunt for extraordinary (magic) animal
H 1592 Hunting contest

HvAEr-1152: Gawein and Keiin, who have gone out beyond the walls to look around, see a knight approaching the castle. They inform the queen, who goes to see who is coming. She identifies the stranger who is riding in the company of a lady and a dwarf as the man whom Erec followed. Iders rides over the courtyard of Karadigan and dismounts at the stone where the king uses to mount horse or dismount. Iders falls to the queen’s feet, tells her that Erec defeated him and sent him to win her pardon and to give himself fully in her service which he does. He informs her that Erec is coming himself the following morning and bringing with him the most beautiful maiden. The king and the queen are very pleased with the news. The queen tells Iders that his punishment shall be that he has to remain as a part of their retinue.

Motif References:

P 14 Particular practices of kings
P 555.4 (Bm) Defeated knights [giant, rescued persons etc.] sent under oath to king [lady, queen] (as proof of victory)

HvAEr-1294: At Tulmein all the people rejoice at Erec’s good fortune and they expand their festivities. Enite is acting very shy, as maidens do. Only later on they learn to give up shyness. The Duke Imain asks them to spend the night with him but Erec declines and would rather be the guest of his father-in-law. He should not think that Erec holds his poverty against him. So the Duke Imain goes with them to Coralus’s castle. There is great jubilation in all places and Erec invites knights and ladies to come to his quarters. The Duke pays for the entertainment of the guests.

Motif References:

W 46 (Li) Modesty
P 634 Feasts

HvAEr-1400: The following morning Erec and Enite set off for Arthur’s court. Erec has declined the Duke’s offer to dress Enite better and to give him silver and gold, horses and clothing. He would take only a palfrey suitable for Enite to ride which came from one of her cousins. It is the most beautiful horse one could think of: It is ermine-white, has a broad chest and long flanks, fine feet and back, and a curly mane which hangs far down. The horse is gentle and easy to ride. A beautiful and precious saddle goes with the palfrey, which has metal parts of red gold. The girths are of silk and gold thread. Parting brings Enite and her parents to tears. Erec promises to his father-in-law that he will bring Coralus’s poverty to an end. Then they take leave and ride off. On their way back to Karadigan they begin to look at one another and continue to exchange fond glances.

Motif References:

Z 201.1 (Bm) Hero’s famous horse
F 868 Extraordinary saddle

HvAEr-1501: King Arthur and the knights receive Erec with knightly revelry. The queen greets him and takes charge of Enite whom she leads to her private rooms. Enite is treated as a dear guest and receives rich clothing and adornment. Since she looked so beautiful even in shabby clothing she now in splendid dress is really extraordinarily beautiful. Then the queen leads her to the king who is sitting at the Round Table in the company of his knights. Among them Gawein is the most excellent knight of all times, for he never did anything blameworthy. The author specifies the knights sitting at the Round Table by name (1630-1697).

Motif References:

Z 200 Heroes
Z 201.9.1 (Bm) Hero’s famous possessions - Arthur’s Round Table
F 575.1 Remarkably beautiful woman

HvAEr-1698: Toward this group the queen leads the perfect beauty, Enite. In her the red of roses and the white of lilies flow together, except for her lips which are like roses. Enite is very embarrassed when she enters the hall and being so very shy she becomes red and pale in turn. Those of the Round Table are startled by her beauty. King Arthur seats her at his one side and the queen on the other. The king now makes use of the right he has won by capturing the white stag: the right to kiss the one whom all believe to be the most beautiful woman at the court. Enite without question is the most beautiful woman there. So the king observes the custom passed on by his father Utpandragon and receives Enite’s kiss.

Motif References:

P 14 Particular practices of kings
W 46 (Li) Modesty
Z 65.1 Red as blood, white as snow
F 575.1 Remarkably beautiful woman
B 731.7.3 (Bm) Milk-white deer
F 989.15 Hunt for extraordinary (magic) animal
H 1592 Hunting contest
H 1596 Beauty contest

HvAEr-1797: In honor of Erec and Enite a great feast takes place. Then Erec sends a messenger to his father-in-law with riches supplied by the king. He also sends a messenger to his father, King Lac, with the request that Coralus should be given two castles in his land, which is granted. Now the noble man can live in a manner suitable to his high rank. Erec and Enite are very fond of each other and are tormented by having to wait for their wedding.

Motif References:

P 634 Feasts

HvAEr-1887: King Arthur insists that the wedding of Erec and Enite is celebrated at Kardigan Castle at Whitsuntide and sends letters and messages everywhere inviting guests for the festival. The author gives the names of the counts and princes attending the marriage feast. One of them is Maheloas of Crystal Island (von dem glesînen werde, 1919), whose country has neither snakes nor storms nor weather too hot or too cold, and Gimoers, lord of the Isle of Avalon (der wert Avalôn, 1931), who is lucky enough to be the lover of a fairy named Marguel. Ten rich and powerful kings attend the festival. They form two groups, the young and the old, each group is dressed and mounted alike in a manner suitable to their respective station. All have costly clothes and have retinues of well-dressed men. The younger ones are dressed in clothes of various colors and are mounted on black horses and each of them has a four-year-old sparrow-hawk on his hand. The old kings are clad in dark cloth and they are mounted on white horses. Each of them holds a peregrine falcon which is six years old or more. When these troops ride into Britain they have good hunting, so that the fields are emptied of game.

Motif References:

F 134 Otherworld on island
T 136.1 Wedding feast
F 213 Fairyland on island.
F 302 Fairy mistress
F 708.4 (Li) Country without snakes
F 709.4 (Bm) Land of two summers and no winters [without extreme weather elements]
F 731.5 Island of amber (glass)
F 821 Extraordinary dress (clothes, robe, etc.)

HvAEr-2064: King Arthur rides toward them to receive them with great honor. The author gives the names of the old kings. One of them is the wise king Jernis of Riel, who brings a retinue of 300 very old men who have long white hair and beards to reach their belts. The youngest of them is a hundred and forty years of age. Among the other kings are the very short dwarf king Bilei and his extremely tall giant brother Brians, both of the land of the Antipodes. What Bilei lacks in size he makes up for in courage and wealth. In his company are the dwarf kings Grigoras and Glecidolan.

Motif References:

F 451.8.2 Proper names for dwarfs
F 451.2.1.1 Dwarfs are small
F 451.4.5.1 Dwarfs are ruled by a king
F 451.10 Dwarfs and other supernatural beings
F 531.2.1 Extremely tall giant
F 571 Extremely old person
F 707 Extraordinary kingdom

HvAEr-2118: Erec and Enite are married by the bishop of Canterbury and the festival begins. There is an abundance of all one could wish for, however the guests take only as much as is proper. After the meal the bohourt and the dancing begin and there are all sorts of courtly amusements. All minstrels are well rewarded and become equally rich so that there is no quarrel between them. After fourteen days the festival comes to an end and many of the minstrels leave. The host then extends the festival for two more weeks. Some say that a brave man should not leave without taking part in a tournament, and Gawein challenges four friends. The tournament is to take place three weeks later between Tarebron and Prurin halfway from each of the parties.

Motif References:

Q 95 Reward for musician
T 136.1 Wedding feast
P 428 Musician
P 561 Tournaments
P 634 Feasts

HvAEr-2248: Erec has never taken part in a tournament and is quite concerned about how to make a good impression. The reputation a young man gets in his first years as a knight might easily stick to him for life. The king gives him everything Erec needs. Erec is very considerate in his demands and makes his preparations in accordance with his present condition. He has three shields and three sets of riding equipment with the same coat of arms, although in different colors: the first is shining like a mirror and displays a golden sleeve, the second is red with a silver sleeve, and the third one is gold and has a sable sleeve. On the upper part of the third shield is the picture of a lady.

Motif References:

P 50 Noblemen (knights) [rules of chivalry]
Z 71.1 Formulistic number: three
P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols - coat-of-arms

HvAEr-2320: Erec has three banners made to match the different shields. King Arthur helps him to obtain good helmets, hauberks and greaves and five horses. For each horse he has ten colored spears. His helmet is adorned with a shining angel in a golden crown. Erec has fifteen squires with good outfit. While his spears are carried to the tournament grounds by a wagon Erec says good-by to Enite and they exchange their hearts. On Saturday evening King Arthur and his troops ride up to the tournament grounds. Erec who does not consider himself to be experienced in chivalry acts wisely: he keeps to himself and takes no part in their revelry. Those who come to see him in his lodgings however are very well received.

Motif References:

W 46 (Li) Modesty
P 50 Noblemen (knights) [rules of chivalry]
F 824 Extraordinary [part of] armor

HvAEr-2407: The tournament starts on Sunday. Erec is eager to take part in the first joust and gets ahead of the others. He jousts several times and obtains honor and praise. Then the main body of knights arrives at the ground. They see the riderless horses running about and think they must have been set loose by Erec. They begin a preliminary tournament, in which Erec excels. Early next morning after having heard mass Erec rides onto the field with his squires who carry his spears but without armor. He uses up all his spears in real jousts and steals back to his party. The author takes this as a proof of his great courage. A page however has seen the jousts and tells it to the king. He reproves the other knights who are still asleep and praises Erec. The other knights leave their lodgings and ride to the field. Erec again excels in jousting and overcomes the brave Lando, the best knight of his country.

Motif References:

P 561 Tournaments
H 1561.1 Tests of valor: tournament

HvAEr-2589: He keeps on until he has to exchange his shield badly broken in fight, he exchanges his horse and banner as well. Erec unhorses many knights but again lets the horses run, because he has not come to gain booty. Tired from fighting he retires to rest a while, but seeing his party retreating he hurries to their aid bareheaded and they gain victory. Without him they would have been vanquished by the superior force of their adversaries. His companions thank him for his aid and his courage to fight bareheaded.

Motif References:

P 561 Tournaments
H 1561.1 Tests of valor: tournament

HvAEr-2720: Gawein is a very brave knight and still famous for his virtues: he has all good qualities a knight should have, loyalty, generosity, good manners, strength, truthfulness and beauty. There is no other knight so faultless at the Arthurian court. Gawein is an excellent vassal to the king. This one day Erec however had more success than Gawein and Erec is the only knight one could consider his equal because of his many virtues. Erec continues jousting until the tournament ends and the victorious party of King Arthur leaves the ground. Erec is praised as the most excellent knight.

Motif References:

P 50 Noblemen (knights) [rules of chivalry]
P 561 Tournaments
H 1561.1 Tests of valor: tournament

HvAEr-2826: The story of Erec’s great feats spreads and Enite is happy about it but sad as well because she fears she soon would lose a husband so eager to risk his life in fight. She prefers however to have a brave knight rather than a coward one for a husband. After the tournament the king and his retinue return to Kardigan, where the knights are joyfully received by their ladies. Then Erec and Enite leave the court in order to return to Destrigales, the country of Erec’s father. A messenger is sent ahead to the town of Karnant to tell his father that they are coming. Erec’s father, king Lac, is very happy about this news and gives rich reward to the messenger. He sends for his relatives and vassals and they ride to meet Erec. Erec and his wife are greeted with great pleasure and king Lac is very pleased with his son and his daughter-in-law. He makes Erec and Enite king and queen and abdicates in their favor.

Motif References:

P 16.1.4 Father abdicates in favor of son

HvAEr-2924: Erec now thinks only of Enite’s love and is concerned simply with arranging everything for their comfort. His habits change and he gives up all striving for honor. However Erec keeps one virtue: he provides well for all his men that they can afford to go to tournaments even though he does not. Erec becomes indolent to the point where no one can respect him and the knights and squires at the court are rightly annoyed at this. Many of them leave the court which now is joyless and falls into decay. They begin to speak bitterly and say their lord is going to ruin because of Enite. This talk spreads until it gets to Enite who is deeply troubled on hearing the reproaches. She tries to think of some way to appease the enmity towards her. Aware that it is her fault she bears the sorrow in a womanly manner and does not dare to say anything to her husband for fear of losing him.

Motif References:

P 50 Noblemen (knights) [rules of chivalry]
P 60 Noble (gentle) ladies
T 200 Married life

HvAEr-3013: One day when Erec is laying in her arms at midday as usual Enite thinks of the curses which have been directed at her and moves from Erec. She looks at him and, believing him asleep, sighs deeply and bewails that so many condemn her. Erec hears her plainly and questions her about her sorrows. She tries to deny but he insists. Enite is afraid of being accused of other offenses and so she tells him. When he has learnt about her troubles Erec bids her to get up and put on her best clothes. He then sends for his horse and Enite’s palfrey asserting that they want to go for a ride. Erec secretly dresses himself in armor and puts on his clothing over it. He tells his knights and squires to remain there and sends word to the kitchen that a meal should be ready for them as soon as they would return. Then Erec and Enite ride off. He orders her on pain of death to ride in front and never say a word during the journey. She promises to obey his command.

Motif References:

T 200 Married life
Q 411 Death as punishment
H 461 Test of wife’s patience
H 1221 Quest for adventure
H 1223.1 Quest to recover one’s honor through feats.

HvAEr-3106: The two ride through fields and woods until dark. Erec continues on in search of knightly adventure. The road leads them into a forest which is controlled by three robbers who watch the road. Enite sees them before Erec does and is greatly distressed. She tries to let Erec know with signs but he cannot understand her. She asks God to help her in her plight. Then she makes up her mind: She would rather die for breaking her husband’s order to keep silent on pain of death than see him perish. Enite warns Erec of the imminent danger.

Motif References:

T 200 Married life
T 210.1 Faithful wife
Q 411 Death as punishment
H 461 Test of wife’s patience
P 475 Robber [thief, outlaw, pirate]
H 492 Test of faithfulness of husband and wife.
N 765 Meeting with robber band
H 1221 Quest for adventure
H 1223.1 Quest to recover one’s honor through feats.

HvAEr-3190: The robbers agree that the first who saw them has the first choice with the booty: he will joust first with the knight and if he kills him he will only take the woman. The first robber attacks the knight. As usual the robbers are lightly armed and have only helmet and cuirass. Erec kills the first robber and his companions as well who try to avenge him. Then Erec blames Enite for having broken her promise: he says this is due to the fact that women cannot resist doing what has been forbidden. Enite says she only spoke out of loyalty and asks for forgiveness. Erec spares her this time but she will have the horses in her keeping and has to serve as his squire. Enite is not offended and endures the unfamiliar work. She manages the horses as well as a lady can.

Motif References:

W 200 Traits of character - miscellaneous
T 200 Married life
T 210.1 Faithful wife
H 461 Test of wife’s patience
P 475 Robber [thief, outlaw, pirate]
P 475.2 Robbers defeated and killed
Q 482 Punishment: noble person must do menial service
H 492 Test of faithfulness of husband and wife.
N 765 Meeting with robber band

HvAEr-3291: Soon after Enite sees five robbers lying in wait before her. These five robbers have an agreement to share the booty with the ones killed by Erec: they control the forest and lurk by the road. The first robber stationed as a sentinel asks his companions for the woman and his claim is granted. The others divide up the armor and the horses. Enite in great concern about her husband’s life again speaks out to warn him of the imminent danger. Erec gets ready to fight and kills the robbers one after another. Then he blames Enite for having broken her promise: if a man could gain honor by fighting a woman, he would kill her on the spot. She will have to be his squire throughout the journey and now has to care for eight horses.

Motif References:

T 200 Married life
T 210.1 Faithful wife
H 461 Test of wife’s patience
P 475 Robber [thief, outlaw, pirate]
P 475.2 Robbers defeated and killed
Q 482 Punishment: noble person must do menial service
H 492 Test of faithfulness of husband and wife.
N 765 Meeting with robber band

HvAEr-3472: At dawn they ride out of the forest. The road leads them to a nearby castle and a little town beneath where they hope to get some rest from their hardships. They meet a youth carrying food and wine who is moved by their troubles and begs them come to his lord’s castle. He offers them food and drink and takes the horses from Enite. After they have had enough to eat Erec offers the squire a reward: He should choose a horse which he does gladly. He offers to lead the lady’s horses to the castle but Erec refuses - Enite has to endure this hardship. The youth returns to the castle. The count is sitting in front of the gate and wonders why the squire returns so soon. He asks him about his horse and the squire tells him what has happened. The count should go down to the road to meet the guests, which he does. He bids them welcome and invites them to stay in the castle. Erec however insists to ride on to an inn. Erec and Enite both have a bath and a meal afterwards. Enite is not allowed to eat with her husband: she has to sit alone at one end of the table while he is sitting alone at the other.

Motif References:

Q 114 Gifts as reward
H 461 Test of wife’s patience
H 492 Test of faithfulness of husband and wife.
N 832 Boy as helper

HvAEr-3668: The lord constrained by Enite’s beauty regrets to have let her go and makes plans how he might obtain her. Although the count is a decent man of honor love has robbed him his mind and teaches him treachery towards his guest. The author considers the powers of Love. The count brings four knights with him to the inn where he finds Erec and Enite at the table. He wonders about the fact that they sit apart from one another and asks about it. Erec says that this is his desire. The count asks him the favor to sit with her and Erec does not object. He tells Enite that he has come for her honor’s sake and that he will put an end to her grief by making her mistress of his country.

Motif References:

T 0 Love
T 50 Wooing
F 575.1 Remarkably beautiful woman

HvAEr-3797: Enite says that she is not suitable for him and that he would soon regret it. However she and Erec are suited to each other. The count threatens her: She will have to accept his request for she could not defend herself here. Enite sees that he is in earnest and puts him off by a deceptive respite: she says she believed he was joking, because men use to deceive women, otherwise she would have given another answer. She now will accept his offer. She says that her husband stole her from her noble and wealthy father and that now he does not dare to return to his country and she has to go with him. She pretends to do as the count wishes.

Motif References:

T 210.1 Faithful wife
T 323 Escape from undesired lover by strategy
H 492 Test of faithfulness of husband and wife.
K 1227 Lover put off by deceptive respite
H 1556.4 Fidelity in love tested

HvAEr-3896: The count gives the oath that he will be faithful to her. Enite then advises him to wait until the next morning when he will be able to seize her easily for she will steal her husband’s sword. The count is very glad about her words and takes his leave. Erec and Enite go to bed, but Erec does not allow her to lie beside him. Enite again is in deep trouble but finally decides to speak out and tell her husband the story. Erec prepares to leave immediately, has the innkeeper awakened and gives him the seven horses as pay. The innkeeper makes the knight drink St. Gertrude’s love for good luck. They ride off at night and leave the country. Meanwhile the count is thinking about how he would seize Enite and wakes up in alarm. With his men he goes to the inn, kicks the door in and asks the innkeeper about the guests’ whereabouts. The innkeeper tells him they have left a short time ago. The count and his men set off to pursue Erec and Enite. The squires have only shield and spear.

Motif References:

M 149 Vows concerning sex - miscellaneous
R 220 Flights
T 323 Escape from undesired lover by strategy
H 492 Test of faithfulness of husband and wife.
K 1227 Lover put off by deceptive respite
H 1556.4 Fidelity in love tested

HvAEr-4110: Erec is in a hurry to leave the country, however he blames Enite of having opposed to his order. If she persists in doing what he forbade he will kill her. Enite asks for mercy and promises she will never do it again. But she breaks her promise at once because she hears the pursuers galloping after them. The lady can hear and see better than the knight, because she is unarmed while he is in full armor and therefore has a limited vision. The count rides into view and speaks to Erec offensively. They start to fight. Erec wounds the count and kills several of his companions, the rest takes flight. Erec prays that God may help him to leave the land without disgrace. When Erec and Enite are in safety Erec becomes very angry and blames his wife for her disobedience. She promises never to do this again.

Motif References:

T 210.1 Faithful wife
H 492 Test of faithfulness of husband and wife.
H 1561.2 Single combat to prove valor

HvAEr-4268: Erec and Enite now come to the land of a lord unknown to them, the strong king of Ireland, Guivreiz le pitiz (4477). He is very small like a dwarf, except that his arms and legs are quite long. His chest is broad and thick and he has a manly heart. That is what is important: if a man were very tall and had a weak heart his hulk would be useless. Guivreiz is high-spirited and has defeated many men.

Motif References:

F 610.2 Dwarf hero of superhuman strength

HvAEr-4319: When this new opponent appears Enite once more warns her husband. Guivreiz greets the lady and challenges the knight. Erec says that he should not fight him after having just bid welcome but the little one insists. The knights begin to fight. Erec at first only parries the blows of his opponent and Guivreiz, taking him for a coward, wounds Erec. Enite is in despair. Erec then strikes his opponent hard, wounds him and would have killed him if the dwarf did not surrender and beg for mercy. He promises to be his vassal. Erec spares him without taking him as a vassal and asks the dwarf’s name. They bind each other’s wounds, sit down to rest and talk as friends. Guivreiz, who never has been overcome before, wants to know about Erec’s descent and the knight tells him his family. Guivreiz, who knows Erec’s father, will be his vassal and he and his land subject to him. He asks Erec to ride with him to his castle and remain there until he has recovered. Erec does as he is asked and they ride to the castle. Guivreiz advises Erec to have a doctor treat their wounds and not to leave before he is healed. But Erec will only stay one night.

Motif References:

P 52 Knight jousts with all comers
P 311.1 Combatants become sworn brethren
H 1561.2 Single combat to prove valor

HvAEr-4629: Erec departs in the morning (lacuna 4629,5) and enters a forest where Arthur has ridden from his castle at Tintajol with his retinue in order to hunt. Gawein (=Walwan; 4629,19) comes and ties his horse Wintwalite (4629,20) by his tent. With his permission Keiin mounts it, takes Gawein’s shield and spear and rides out. He sees Erec coming and notices that the knight has suffered hardships. He rides up to him and greeting him deceitfully he seizes the bridle of Erec’s horse. He thinks he can capture the stranger in this manner and asks for his name. (lacuna 4629,43) Keiin asks Erec to join King Arthur in his camp nearby to recover from his hardships. He plans to bring the knight to court and to pretend that he has wounded and captured him. This clearly shows that he is a very odd person whose nature combines contrary traits: uprightness and falseness, bravery and cowardice. Because of his malice he pleases no one and is called Keiin the Slanderer (quâtspreche, 4664).

Motif References:

W 110 Unfavorable traits of character - personal
W 121 Cowardice
Z 201.1 (Bm) Hero’s famous horse
K 1953 Sham brave man
K 2130 Trouble-makers

HvAEr-4665: Erec sees through his plans and refuses to come with Keiin to Arthur’s camp. Keiin says he would force him to go and Erec becomes very angry and wants him to let go of the bridle. Keiin draws back his hand just in time when Erec is about to cut off his hand and takes to flight. But Erec soon overtakes him. Seeing that his adversary wears no armor Erec reverses his spear in order not to wound him and unhorses him. He leads the horse away. Keiin runs after him and implores Erec not to take the horse which is not his own. Erec wants to know his name and who is the owner of the horse. Keiin names himself, says he is Arthur’s lord high steward and that the king’s nephew Gawein has lent him the horse. Erec gives him back the horse on the condition that he returns to Gawein with Erec’s compliments. Keiin gives the promise to do so. Then he asks Erec who he is, but Erec refuses to give his name and they part. Keiin returns to Arthur’s camp and relates the shameful story in such a comical way that it is taken as a joke and he is not ridiculed. They all want to know who the stranger was. Keiin having heard his voice thinks it has been Erec. They all agree that he is right.

Motif References:

H 79.3 Recognition by voice
L 430 Arrogance repaid
H 1561.2 Single combat to prove valor

HvAEr-4860: Arthur would like that Erec be brought to his court and assigns the task to Gawein and Keiinn who ride off at once and hurry after Erec. They soon overtake him and Gawein greets him friendly. Erec thanks him, recognizes his friend and gives his name. They all are very happy to meet again. Gawein says that Arthur has asked him to bring Erec to court and begs him not to reject the request. Erec assures him of his devotion to both the king and the queen but will not join them now. Gawein in secret asks Keiin to ride back and make Arthur move his camp so that Erec could not avoid it. So it is done. In the meantime Gawein slows Erec down riding with him. Finally they ride out of the forest right into the king’s camp. Erec is annoyed by this trick but Gawein assures him that his intention is good and they make their peace. Erec and Enite are welcomed. Ginover takes charge of Enite while the knights care for Erec. Then the queen brings a plaster good for wounds. The wound on which it is bound ceases to pain and begins to heal without leaving any scars.

Motif References:

N 837 Queen as helper
D 1244 Magic salve (ointment)
D 1500.1.19 Magic healing salve.
D 1503.4 Magic balm heals wounds.
D 2161.2 Magic cure of wound.

HvAEr-5153: Famurgan, the king’s sister, has left the plaster with him many years before, when she died. Famurgan was a very powerful fairy: She could go around the whole world and return in an instant. She could hover in the air and rest there easily. She could dwell on the water or beneath it as well as in the fire. She was able to transform people into birds or wild beasts and then give them back their true form. However she lived contrary to divine order, for the birds and wild beasts and even the evil spirits were under her command; the dragons and fish were in her service; the devil was her companion and sent her every aid she wanted. She took anything she desired from the earth and knew about all powerful herbs. Famurgan was the greatest magician since the death of Sibylla (Sibillâ, 5216) and Erichto (Erictô, 5217) who had been able to resuscitate the dead by magic. Famurgan was so wise and one could never find such powerful remedies as she used, against Christ’s commandment, whenever she wished.

Motif References:

D 100 Transformation: man to animal.
E 121.7 Resuscitation by magician.
F 250 Other characteristics of fairies.
F 253 Extraordinary powers of fairies
F 259.1 Mortality of fairies
D 813 Magic object received from fairy
D 1500.1.4 Magic healing plant.
D 1711 Magician
D 1711.5 Fairy as magician.
D 1719.5 Magic power of fairy.
D 2122 Journey with magic speed.
D 2135.0.1 Levitation
D 2151 Magic control of waters
D 2158 Magic control of fires
D 2197 Magic dominance over animals
D 2198 Magic control of spirits (angels, [gods])

HvAEr-5243: The fairy applied all her skill in making the plaster with which the queen bound Erec’s wound. He easily feels the plaster’s healing effect and wants to resume his journey as soon as possible. They cannot keep Erec longer than the next morning. Erec and Enite leave Arthur’s court and the king sets out for Kardigan. Erec follows the road not knowing where it leads, he is only concerned about finding adventure. He has not gone very far when he hears the screams of a woman calling for help. He has Enite dismount and tells her to wait for him while he goes to find the woman. Soon he comes upon a lady in great distress, who has ripped her headdress to pieces, and scratched and torn at herself, so that blood is running over her clothes and body. Erec is moved by this sight and offers his help. The lady tells him what has happened: Two giants have taken her husband and are about to kill him. Erec asks her to show him the way and sets out in pursuit. She commends him to God’s protection.

Motif References:

R 10.6 (Bm) Knight abducted
R 11.3 Abduction by giant [wild woman]
F 531.5.19 (Bm) Giant’s prisoners
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper
F 1041.21.6 Tearing hair and clothes from excessive grief
H 1221 Quest for adventure
D 1244 Magic salve (ointment)
D 1500.1.19 Magic healing salve.
D 1503.4 Magic balm heals wounds.
D 2161.2 Magic cure of wound.

HvAEr-5378: Erec follows the giants and soon comes up to them. They wear no armor and have neither shield nor sword. Their only weapons are clubs with iron studded staffs and two scourges. The prisoner is naked, his hands and feet are bound together and he receives many blows as he is riding before them. Erec is very moved by the knight’s agony and as there is no way to make them spare their captive by good words Erec charges at the giants. The giants are not afraid of him and as they are quite careless Erec kills one of them: he gets a spear in his head through his eye. The other comes toward Erec, who dismounts. Protecting himself skillfully by his shield and by his quickness Erec manages to wound his enemy’s leg and finally to cut it off. They fight fiercely until Erec cuts off the giant’s head.

Motif References:

R 51 Mistreatment of prisoners
S 186 Torturing by beating
F 531.4.5.1 Giant with iron club [pole] as weapon
F 531.5.19 (Bm) Giant’s prisoners
F 531.6.12.6 Giant slain by man
F 628.2.3 Strong man kills giant

HvAEr-5570: Then Erec follows the trail of blood which leads him to the bound knight. He unties him and leads him back to his wife who at the sight of her husband feels both joy and grief. The couple is very happy, they thank Erec and want to be his vassals. Erec as reward only asks for the knight’s name: The knight identifies as Cadoc of Tabriol, who has been on his way to Arthur’s court when the two giants, his enemies for long, laid in wait for him and seized him. Erec tries to console the knight about the shame which happened to him. He asks him to continue his journey to the royal court and to pay Erec’s respects to the queen. When Erec gives his name Cadoc promises to do as he is asked. They part. Cadoc goes to court and fulfills his promise.

Motif References:

R 11.3 Abduction by giant [wild woman]
R 110 Rescue of captive
F 531.5 Giants and men
P 555.4 (Bm) Defeated knights [giant, rescued persons etc.] sent under oath to king [lady, queen] (as proof of victory)

HvAEr-5711: Erec returns to where he left Enite. Being exhausted he falls down in dismounting and lies as if dead. Enite cries out in distress for she thinks him dead. She starts tearing her hair and clothes and rages at God. He should help her to die with her husband, let the wild beasts devour them both. No beast comes and the author thinks if one had come it would have been pitied by her great distress and would have lamented with her. She is on the point of killing herself and implores Death to take her as his bride. But she does not get her way and so she curses Death and accuses him of treachery and injustice. Then she remembers her parents who believed that they improved her state by this marriage - but her good fortune is lost. An unlucky man’s fortune cannot be improved in any way.

Motif References:

V 57 Purpose of prayer
T 211.9 Excessive grief at husband’s or wife’s death
F 1041.21.6 Tearing hair and clothes from excessive grief

HvAEr-6062: She takes her husband’s sword and wants to kill herself. Just as she is about to fall on the sword a man stops her. He is Oringles of Limors (Oringles von Lîmors, 6121/22), a mighty count, whose castle is nearby and who has been riding through the forest with his knights. Enite tells him what has happened. The count is impressed by Enite’s beauty which also is proof of her noble birth. He wants to marry her and asks his retinue for advice. They consent.

Motif References:

T 211.9 Excessive grief at husband’s or wife’s death
T 211.2 Wife’s suicide at husband’s death.
F 575.1 Remarkably beautiful woman
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper

HvAEr-6213: Oringles tries to console Enite and says she should control herself and that she has lamented enough. She should improve her fortune by taking him as a husband, who is wealthier than the dead man was and will suit her better in any way. Enite rejects his wooing which the count does not take seriously, for that is how women talk. He has Erec taken on a bier to his castle Limors, where he gets a deathwatch. Enite is in distress. The count wants her to make her his wife the very night. Although his retinue does not approve of this haste he has the lords and the clergy come to give the lady to him in marriage.

Motif References:

T 50 Wooing
T 210.1 Faithful wife
H 492 Test of faithfulness of husband and wife.
H 1556.4 Fidelity in love tested

HvAEr-6352: As it is time for the evening meal he sends for Enite who is keeping watch over her husband. In her grief she does not even see the messengers. Then the count goes to fetch her. He pulls her away by force and has her seated at his table. But she does not eat and cannot stop her grief. The count urges her to control herself and tells her that she is much better off now that she has been the day before. Enite says that all his words will do no good and that she will not eat before her dead husband. The count strikes Enite and insults her which his retinue reproves. The count says that a wife belongs to her husband and that he could treat her as he likes. Enite is happy about being struck for she hopes that he will kill her. She continues wailing and welcomes his blows.

Motif References:

T 192 Marriage by force.
T 200 Married life
T 210.1 Faithful wife
H 492 Test of faithfulness of husband and wife.
H 1556.4 Fidelity in love tested

HvAEr-6587: Erec lying senseless hears Enite’s cries and starts up in alarm. He rises from his bier and hurries to help his wife. He takes a sword and kills the count and two men sitting beside him. The others flee in a wild rush not only fearing for their lives but frightened by a dead man charging at them. Enite however is very happy. Erec finds his armor and his weapons, but as there is no horse they have to leave on foot. But they soon come upon a squire riding Erec’s horse which he quickly takes from him. They take the road back to where they came from.

Motif References:

T 93.6 (Bm) Unwanted suitor slain.
R 151 Husband rescues wife.
R 220 Flights
J 1786 Man thought to be a devil or ghost

HvAEr-6750: They enter a forest which separates three countries: the land of King Arthur, Guivreiz’ kingdom and Limors. Enite tells her husband the story of how he had come into the count’s power. Her test has come to an end for Erec now is convinced of her faithfulness and faultlessness. He begs her to forgive him, and she pardons him immediately.

Motif References:

T 210.1 Faithful wife
T 298 Reconciliation [reunion] of (separated) couple
H 461 Test of wife’s patience
H 492 Test of faithfulness of husband and wife.
H 1556.4 Fidelity in love tested

HvAEr-6814: In the meantime a page has brought the news to Guivreiz who guesses that the dead man must be Erec. With several knights he hurries to help his friend escape the dead count’s countrymen. Night has come and the moon is already shining brightly. Guivreiz and Erec meet but do not recognize each other and start to joust. Guivreiz unhorses Erec and dismounts. Enite is in despair. Guivreiz is about to kill his opponent when Enite hurries to keep him from doing so by mentioning the king’s name. Thus Guivreiz recognizes her as well as by her voice. Enite tells him who they are and Guivreiz welcomes them. Guivreiz regrets what he has done but Erec says he behaved foolishly and received what he deserved. They all are happy. They ride to a meadow nearby where they spend the night to rest. Erec tells his story to the king. Then they go to sleep and Enite now is allowed to lie beside her husband. In the morning Guivreiz leads them to one of his castles nearby.

Motif References:

H 79.3 Recognition by voice
H 151.10 Combat of unknown brothers [relatives, unrecognized friends] brings about recognition
P 314 Combat of disguised [unrecognized] friends. [Unwitting attack on friend]
N 767.1 (Bm) Unwitting combat between friends. [Unwitting attack on friend]
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper

HvAEr-7124: The castle stands in the middle of a lake which supplies the best fish. The king has enclosed two leagues of the forest around the lake with a wall and divided it by walls into three equal parts. One of them holds red deer, the other wild boars, the third small game. There are well-trained hounds in the hunting castle. From its walls one can watch the chase and there is plenty of all one needs for hunting. The name of the castle is Penefrec. There Guivreiz brings his guests to have them entertained well. The king’s sisters, Filledamur and Genteflur, heal Erec’s wounds: The sisters have some of Famurgan’s magic plaster which has been sent to them by Queen Ginover. Erec stays fourteen days at Penefrec until he is completely healed.

Motif References:

D 810 Magic object a gift
F 812 Extraordinary forest
N 831 Girl [woman] as helper
B 845 Wild animals herded
D 1244 Magic salve (ointment)
D 1500.1.19 Magic healing salve.
D 1503.4 Magic balm heals wounds.
D 2161.3 Magic cure of physical defect

HvAEr-7264: Enite has lost her horse at Limors and therefore the king’s sisters give her a new horse, which could not be more beautiful: This palfrey is multicolored, the left side is gleaming white, the other side black. The two colors are separated by a green stripe which goes from the nose to the tail along the backbone and down the chest. There is a green ring around each eye. The mane is soft and curly and almost hangs down to the knees. Mane and tail are half white and half black, divided by the green stripe. It has just the right size in every respect. It has short ears, a black ring around the white ear, and a white one around the black. Guivreiz once has taken the horse from a wild dwarf who had left it behind tied to a branch. The owner wanted to buy it back from Guivreiz but he refused the offer. The dwarf lamented very loudly. The horse’s saddle is very costly but the horse is too small for a man. Guivreiz gave the horse to his sisters. It is very swift and gentle, and one could not hear it go.

Motif References:

Z 201.1 (Bm) Hero’s famous horse
F 451.7.5 Dwarfs have little horses
B 731.2.1 Horse with crimson mane and green legs [Polychromatic horse]
B 731.0.1 Animals of strange and varied coloring
F 868 Extraordinary saddle

HvAEr-7462: With the horse goes an extraordinary precious saddle, the work of the skillful craftsman Umbriez. The author then argues with the reader / listener who tries to guess how the saddle is made which he cannot. Then the author tells him about it. The saddle is of ivory and precious stones and the finest gold. The saddle is engraved with the story of Troy: one side shows the conquest and destruction of the town, the other one tells how Eneas sailed to Carthage and how he deceived and forsook Dido. One side of the saddlebow shows Dido’s great distress and how she sent messengers after her lover, the other side gives the story of Eneas and Lavinia. The saddle covering is a fine silk and gold cloth, showing all the world’s wonders: The four elements are each illustrated by the creatures living in them, all of them seem to be alive, the earth with its beasts, the sea with its fish and monsters (the author gives the advice not to be curious and to stay at home), the air, the fire with its dragons. The cover is even more splendid than the cloth of Jupiter and Juno on their bridal throne.

Motif References:

F 855 Extraordinary image
F 868 Extraordinary saddle

HvAEr-7669: The stirrups are precious and beautiful as well. They are two gold rings shaped like two winged dragons with eyes made from jewels. The girth and stirrup straps are made from a gold and silk fabric, the buckles are of silver. The saddlecloth is artful and lovely. It is decorated with pictures showing the story of Pyramus and Thisbe. The crupper is a net of gold threads with many precious stones and rubies at the knots which gleam brightly. The breast strap and the reins are very artful as well and adorned with eleven precious stones. A twelfth stone placed at the front of the bridle is a shining carbuncle incandescent at night. Between the jewels hang little golden bells. The saddle is fitting the most beautiful lady then living, lady Enite.

Motif References:

Z 71.8 Formulistic number: twelve
F 855 Extraordinary image
F 868 Extraordinary saddle
D 1645.1 Incandescent jewel

HvAEr-7767: Erec and Enite leave the court of Guivreiz and his sisters. Guivreiz accompanies Erec and Enite to King Arthur. They come to a crossroad and not knowing which road leads to Britain they choose the more traveled one. They come to a large castle (Brandigan, 7959) lying before them, a sight which troubles Guivreiz a lot. It is an excellent site and a good stronghold. The thirty towers are made of large squared stones, held together by iron and lead clasps, and are adorned with red gold bosses shining over a wide distance. Erec asks Guivreiz about the castle and he knows the place. They have missed the right road and he wants to turn round immediately. Erec however wants to see the castle and urges his friend to tell him about it.

Motif References:

N 770 Experiences leading to adventures
F 771 Extraordinary castle (house, palace)
F 771.1 Castle of unusual material

HvAEr-7952: It is Brandigan Castle, where many a brave knight met death. As Erec insists on hearing more about the adventure Guivreiz says that it is called Joie de la curt, which means Joy of the Court. Any knight coming to the castle has to fight the lord’s nephew who is of outstanding strength and courage and has killed all his opponents. Hearing that he would only have to face a man, Erec thinks it an easy adventure from which he will not refrain.

Motif References:

P 52 Knight jousts with all comers
H 1561.2 Single combat to prove valor

HvAEr-8057: When Erec and his wife ride toward Brandigan there is much gaiety in the town beneath the castle with dancing and all sort of games. As people see the knight and his beautiful lady approaching all their gaiety vanishes and they start lamenting the lady and the knight and bewailing their fate in a murmur. Many women beat their breasts and others weep. Erec well aware of the reasons for their sadness acts as if he noticed nothing: He is not superstitious and pays no attention to their murmurs just as he does to his dreams. He does not believe in weather omens and it makes no difference whether an owl or hawk crosses his way in the morning. He never has a fire built in order to tell his fortune, does not care for chiromancy or any other sort of superstition. Erec is confident and has the firm heart of a man. He entirely trusts in God. Riding to the castle he greets people with a smile and sings joyfully. People mutter warning words.

Motif References:

W 32 Bravery
B 147.2 Birds furnish omens
W 200 Traits of character - miscellaneous
M 303 Prophecy by reading palm
V 440 Other religious virtues
N 820 Human helpers
D 1810.8 Magic knowledge from dream
D 1812.3.3 Future revealed in dream
D 1812.5.0.3 Behavior of fire as omen
D 1812.5.0.15 Weather signs
D 1812.5.0.2 Omens from flight of birds
D 1812.5 Future learned through omens

HvAEr-8170: Thus they come to Brandigan where they are received very well. Then their host leads them to the ladies who are dwelling in a round room splendidly decorated and built from marble stones of all colors, which glisten like glass. The loveliest women are sitting there: Eighty ladies all dressed alike in mourning clothes, black and plain, with white head-dresses. They are very sad. When the guests enter they receive them joyfully despite their sorrow. Erec looks at the ladies and must admit that each of them is of unsurpassed beauty.

Motif References:

Z 142 Symbolic color: white
Z 143.1 Black as symbol of grief
P 681 Mourning customs

HvAEr-8307: When the host tells them why the guests have come the ladies are reminded of their sorrow: they become pale and start weeping. Guivreiz tells Erec, that these ladies are the widows of the knights slain at this place. After the dinner Erec asks the king about the adventure of Brandigan. The host is not pleased and says that for the last twelve years much harm has come from it. Erec as a brave man however insists - his heart is more resistant than a diamond which would grind down two mountains of steel but can be melted by some kind of blood. If he knew nothing about it although he came here people would call him a liar.

Motif References:

W 32 Bravery
Z 71.8 Formulistic number: twelve
T 211 Faithfulness to marriage in death
F 826 Extraordinary jewels
D 1016 Magic blood of animal

HvAEr-8458: Then the King relates the adventure of Brandigan in full: There is a garden enclosed by an invisible barrier, with only one gate, which opens as soon as the challenger speaks, so that he can enter. Then the gate closes. A valiant and strong knight lives in the garden with his lady. He has killed all those undertaking this adventure in combat. There is no arbiter in this combat. Six months ago he killed three brave knights, Venegus, Opinaus and Libaut of the land of the Wends. He uses to decapitate his victims. The king advises his guest to restrain from this fight. Erec however is delighted about the game. Then they go to bed. The bedrooms are costly furnished just fitting to their host’s wealth and high position: His name is King Ivreins and he is the ruler of the country.

Motif References:

P 52 Knight jousts with all comers
F 149 Bounds of the otherworlds - miscellaneous
F 818 Extraordinary garden
D 961 Magic garden
D 1980 Magic invisibility

HvAEr-8614: Erec and Enite pass the night happily until morning. Erec is not free of concern, as a true man should be, for he who knows no fear is a fool. He gets up early, hears mass and has communion. Then he has a light breakfast and drinks St. John’s blessing before he gets ready to fight. Enite is in distress. Then they ride through the town where people are gathered to see them and Erec is not affected by their discouraging comments.

Motif References:

W 32 Bravery
W 200 Traits of character - miscellaneous

HvAEr-8698: The garden is indeed full of wonders: Enclosed by an invisible barrier - some sort of magic cloud - it can only be entered by following a narrow path of which few know. In the garden are all sorts of delights: extraordinary trees bloom and bear fruit concurrently; one could eat as much of the fruit as one wished, but nothing can be carried outside. Birds are singing beautifully and the meadows are covered with all sort of sweet-smelling flowers. The splendor of the garden would make anybody forget his troubles.

Motif References:

F 149 Bounds of the otherworlds - miscellaneous
F 162.1.3 Trees bloom, others bear concurrently in otherworld garden.
F 165.6 Only joy felt in otherworld dwelling.
F 813 Extraordinary fruits.
F 818 Extraordinary garden
D 901 Magic cloud.
D 961 Magic garden
D 1359.3 Magic object causes joy
D 1980 Magic invisibility

HvAEr-8754: King Ivreins brings Erec to the hidden entrance, where they leave their company. Only the King, Erec, Enite and Guivreiz ride farther. They come to a ring with oak posts and on top of each is a man’s head, only one post is empty and from it hangs a horn. Erec asks the meaning of all this and his host tells him that the empty post is waiting for his head. In case he wins the fight Erec should blow the horn three times. At the dreadful sight Enite is in great distress and she swoons. They revive her and Erec says that she should restrain from weeping for he is still in good health. God’s will and her love will make him victorious.

Motif References:

Z 71.1 Formulistic number: three
S 139.2.2.1 Heads of slain enemies impaled upon stakes
F 818 Extraordinary garden
H 901.1 Heads placed on stakes for failure in performance of task
F 1041.21.7 Swooning from grief

HvAEr-8874: Then Erec rides on alone following a narrow path until he comes to a beautiful tent, black and white and skillfully painted with lively pictures from gold of men and women, birds and all kinds of animals with their names above them. The knot is an eagle inlaid with gold. The tent ropes are of many colors. A beautiful woman splendidly dressed is sitting under the tent, excelled in beauty only by Enite. Erec dismounts courteously, ties his horse to a branch and removes his helmet and cap. Then he approaches the lady. Although she is not pleased about his coming she greets him but asks him to leave for otherwise it will be his death. Her husband appears: He has a loud voice like a horn and is in full armor. He is very tall and almost a giant in size. His horse, shield, armor and weapons are red. The knight addresses Erec angrily and Erec stands up to him. Erec says the lord’s threats remind him of the two mountains giving birth to a mouse.

Motif References:

Z 141 Symbolic color: red
F 527.1.1 Red knight
F 533 Remarkably tall man
F 556 Remarkable voice
F 575.1 Remarkably beautiful woman
F 688 Man with marvelous voice
F 775 Extraordinary tent
F 855 Extraordinary image
H 1561.2 Single combat to prove valor

HvAEr-9067: Erec mounts and they start to fight. Their ardor is compared to amorous fervor. Then they continue to fight on foot with their swords until their shields are ruined and they have only their armor left to protect them against the blows. All grass and flowers of the meadow are crushed in the fight which continues from morning till noon. Neither of them is injured. They keep up their strength because of their ladies: the red knight looks at his lady and Erec thinks of Enite. The knight then hits Erec so hard that he almost falls but then he drives his opponent backward now striking recklessly. As Erec’s sword breaks the red knight wants to crush him but Erec knows wrestling well and manages to come on top so that the opponent finally has to beg for his life. He asks Erec’s name in order to know if he has been defeated by a nobleman for otherwise he would be disgraced. Erec identifies and the red knight asks for mercy offering his oath of allegiance and giving his name: Mabonagrin. Erec grants him his life. They disarm and become friends.

Motif References:

T 0 Love
R 75 Surrendering
P 311.1 Combatants become sworn brethren
H 1561.2 Single combat to prove valor

HvAEr-9401: After they have talked for some time Erec asks him about his situation: How could he live with no people around? Women appreciate if their husbands are not constantly with them. Mabonagrin tells Erec his story: He just has been forced into this situation. Once in his youth he rode off to another country where he met a girl his age (eleven years) in the care of her mother. He fell in love with her, courted her and they eloped to his castle. His uncle dubbed him a knight. The lady then obtained an oath from him: In return for having eloped with him he had to give a blind promise to do whatever she might request. She claimed the garden for them to live in like in a second paradise. Just the two of them were to stay there, so that she had not to be afraid of other women, until a single knight would defeat him before her eyes. She thought that could never happen. Mabonagrin explains the posts with the heads on top. Now Erec has set him free and he has brought joy again to this court which had been lost because of this promise. Erec now should blow the horn which he does at once.

Motif References:

Q 115 Reward: any boon that may be asked
M 223 Blind promise (rash boon)
R 225 Elopement
T 257 Jealous husband or wife.
F 375 Mortals as captives in fairyland

HvAEr-9628: People waiting are in great surprise about Mabonagrin’s defeat. King Ivreins leads Enite into the garden. Everybody hurries to celebrate the victory and they sing happy battle songs. All praise Erec who has brought gaiety to them again after such a long period. Enite too is very happy. Mabonagrin’s lady however is filled with grief. The kind lady Enite greets her and talks to her. They find out that they are relatives: Enite’s uncle, Duke Imain of Tulmein, is the brother of the lady’s father, and they both are born in the same town.

Motif References:

N 746 Accidental meeting of cousins
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper

HvAEr-9744: People then leave the garden. The heads are taken down and given an honorable burial. When the news spread that the joy of the court has been restored the king’s vassals and relatives come to Brandigan and they have a great festival with all sorts of entertainments which lasts four weeks. Erec however is not entirely happy for the lasting sorrow of the eighty widows grieves his heart. Erec advises them to come with him to King Arthur’s court and king Ivreins gladly lets them go and gives them outfit - all in black - for the journey.

Motif References:

V 69 Funeral rites - miscellaneous
Z 143.1 Black as symbol of grief
P 634 Feasts
P 681 Mourning customs
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper

HvAEr-9858: They set out after the festival is over and king Ivreins escorts them a long distance. Erec brings the ladies to the court of King Arthur. Erec is much honored and the ladies are cared for as well as could be. After a while the king, Erec and Guivreiz and the king’s knights go to see the ladies. The king’s heart is moved by the ladies’ sorrow. The king and the ladies praise Erec. Then the king turns the ladies to joy and has them exchange their mourning clothes to beautiful and precious dresses.

Motif References:

HvAEr-9963: Erec and Guivreiz stay at court until the news come that Erec’s father has died. Erec leaves the court - giving much to the poor - in the company of Guivreiz. Then Guivreiz goes toward Ireland and Erec to Karnant. Erec’s subjects ride toward him to give their king a splendid welcome. He has won such fame that he is called Erec the Wonder-worker (der wunderaere, 10045). Erec receives the crown of his father and has a great festival, which lasts for six weeks. There is abundance of all one could wish for pleasure. Erec rules the land in peace, he does not forget to praise God and preserves his honor to his death. Enite lives happily and in honor. Her parents come to live with her. God rewards Erec and Enite with eternal life which is what the author prays for everybody.

Motif References:

P 12 Character of kings
P 13.5 Crowning [and making] of kings
P 17.0.2 Son succeeds father as king
P 634 Feasts

Matière de Bretagne

Hartmann von Aue, Erec (>1180) Leitzmann, A. (ed.): Hartmann von Aue, Erec. 3rd Ed. revised by L. Wolff. (=ATB 39) Tübingen 1963.

Hartmann von Aue, Erec (>1180)
Leitzmann, A. (ed.): Hartmann von Aue, Erec. 3rd Ed. revised by L. Wolff. (=ATB 39) Tübingen 1963.