HvAIw-1: In his prologue the author praises King Arthur, who knew how to strive for glory with the spirit of a true knight. His countrymen think he is still alive today.

Motif References:

A 570 Culture hero [King Arthur] still lives

HvAIw-31: At Whitsun Arthur organizes a great festival at Karidol. Many knights and ladies attend the feast and there are all sorts of courtly pastimes to meet everyone’s desires. The royal couple retires to their chamber. Keii has fallen asleep in the hall, where Dodines, Gawein, Segremors and Iwein sit together to listen to Kalogreant who starts to tell the story of one of his adventures. Ginover wakes up, quietly approaches the knights and suddenly appears in their midst. Only Kalogreant leaps up at once and greets the queen. Keii berates him for his eagerness and attacks his honor. Ginover blames Keii for his evil habits and Keii, Kalogreant and Ginover have an argument about courtly manners. At Ginover’s plea Kalogreant then starts telling his story.

Motif References:

W 188 Contentiousness.
P 634 Feasts
K 2130 Trouble-makers

HvAIw-259: About ten years ago Kalogreant was riding in search for adventure into the forest of Breziljan; after following a narrow path through the wilderness he found lodging at a castle where the host and his daughter entertained him well in every respect. They wondered about his search for adventure - they never had met a knight on quest for adventure before - and asked him to return after he has accomplished his quest.

Motif References:

F 151.1 Perilous [narrow] path to otherworld.
F 151.0.1 Hospitable host entertains (guides, advises) adventurer on way to otherworld.
P 320 Hospitality
H 1221 Quest for adventure

HvAIw-396: The next morning Kalogreant came upon fighting wild beasts and a monstrous fierce man sitting in their midst who carried a club as weapon and was clad in animal skins. He looked like a Moor, was huge and hunched, had a big head, his hair and beard were gray and matted to the skin, his eyes were red, he had big hairy ears, a broad hairy nose, a large mouth, a boar’s teeth and a long chin. At Kalogreant’s question the wild man told him that he was a human being and controlled the wild animals as their lord.

Motif References:

F 171.4 Fighting animals seen in otherworld.
B 240.3 Wild man as king of animals.
F 510 Monstrous persons
F 531.4.5.0.1 (Bm) Giant ‘s [wild man ‘s] club.
F 567 Wild man
F 576 Extraordinary ugliness
N 764 Unexpected meeting with wild man
B 845 Wild animals herded

HvAIw-520: At the herdsman’s question Kalogreant told him that he sought adventure, a thing the wild man never had heard of. Kalogreant told him about chivalry and quest for adventure and asked him if he knew of such opportunity. The forest-man said that there was a fountain nearby where he could well risk his life. He then described the conditions of the fountain: There was a chapel nearby; the spring was cool and clear, as it was protected by an evergreen lime tree from rain, sun and winds. Over the spring was a beautiful stone supported by four marble animals. Hanging down on a silver chain from a branch was a golden bowl, to be used to pour some water from the spring onto the stone. Kalogreant indeed would have great good fortune if he left there with honor. The forest-man showed him the path.

Motif References:

F 162.8 Magic fountain in otherworld.
F 162.3.3 Tree in otherworld in perpetual fruit [foliation].
F 163.2 Church (chapel) in otherworld.
F 809 Other extraordinary stones
F 811 Extraordinary tree
N 812 Giant or ogre as helper
D 925 Magic fountain
H 1232.1 Directions on quest given by herdsmen (peasants) [knight, warrior]

HvAIw-600: Kalogreant found everything to be true as the herdsman had told him: the fountain beneath the lime tree, which was full of birds singing beautifully. The stone was an emerald with rubies in its corners. Kalogreant with the basin poured water onto the stone and a violent thunderstorm broke out and devastated the forest. With the weather improving the birds returned and began singing anew.

Motif References:

F 167.1.2 Birds in otherworld.
B 172.2.2 Magic bird’s song dispels grief.
F 809 Other extraordinary stones
F 811 Extraordinary tree
D 905 Magic storm
D 925 Magic fountain
D 1275 Magic song
D 1359.3.1 Magic music causes joy
D 1541.1.3 Magic fountain causes storm (rain).
D 2143.1.1 Rain produced by pouring water

HvAIw-693: A knight (2274: Ascalon) rode up and accused Kalogreant of having destroyed his forest without challenge. Kalogreant pleaded his innocence but the knight insisted that he should defend himself. They joust, Kalogreant was overcome and lost his horse to his adversary.

Motif References:

F 176 Hero fights in otherworld and overcomes [is overcome by] king (queen) or fairy.
C 650.1 Customs connected with unique compulsion [”costume”]
D 926.3 (Bm) Knight guards magic well [body of water]
H 1561.2 Single combat to prove valor

HvAIw-773: His armor being too heavy to be worn on foot Kalogreant took it off and returned to the hospitable knight he had left in the morning. He was treated as well as before. Kalogreant then returned to King Arthur’s court.

Motif References:

F 151.0.1 Hospitable host entertains (guides, advises) adventurer on way to otherworld.
P 320 Hospitality

HvAIw-803: Iwein is quite eager to avenge Kalogreant’s, his relative’s, disgrace and wants to go to see the fountain. Keii blames him of boasting, the queen criticizes Keii’s evil tongue, but Iwein says one should not care for a dog snarling according to its nature. As soon as the king wakes up he joins them. The knights jump up to greet him, which does not entirely please King Arthur, because he is much more a comrade to his knights than their overlord. Then the queen recounts to him Kalogreant’s story and Arthur swears by his father’s, Uterpandragon’s soul, to see the fountain with all his court within a fortnight on Midsummer day.

Motif References:

P 12 Character of kings
W 46 (Li) Modesty
V 70.3 Midsummer.
W 188 Contentiousness.
M 195 (Bm) Vow to see particular marvel.
M 402 Satire [satirist]
N 770.0.1 Feast as occasion for the beginning of adventures or the arrival of questers
H 1221 Quest for adventure
H 1228 Quest undertaken by hero for vengeance.

HvAIw-911: To guarantee his chance of honor Iwein decides to anticipate the king’s quest to the fountain and secretly leaves court to undertake the adventure. Like his cousin Kalogreant he penetrates the narrow path, receives hospitality of the friendly knight and finally finds the monstrous wild man standing among his animals who gives him directions on his quest to the magic fountain.

Motif References:

F 151.1 Perilous [narrow] path to otherworld.
F 151.0.1 Hospitable host entertains (guides, advises) adventurer on way to otherworld.
B 240.3 Wild man as king of animals.
P 320 Hospitality
F 510 Monstrous persons
F 567 Wild man
F 576 Extraordinary ugliness
N 764 Unexpected meeting with wild man
N 812 Giant or ogre as helper
B 845 Wild animals herded
H 1221 Quest for adventure
H 1223 Quest to undertake feats of valor
H 1232.1 Directions on quest given by herdsmen (peasants) [knight, warrior]

HvAIw-989: Iwein arrives at the magic fountain, sees the tree and the stone, hears the birdsong, and raises a heavy storm by pouring water on the stone. After the storm has ended the lord of the forest rides up and they fight. Iwein strikes the adversary a mortal blow though his helmet and he takes to flight. Iwein fears that Keii would deny him any glory if he did not slay or capture his adversary and therefore pursues him up to his castle, thus acting against the rules of chivalry. The forest-lord passes the heavy portcullis without being harmed but Iwein is trapped between two gates. Having bent forward to inflict a wound on his enemy he is fortunate to survive, but his horse is cut in two halves and his sheath and his two spurs are sliced off.

Motif References:

R 4 Surprise capture
F 162.8 Magic fountain in otherworld.
F 176 Hero fights in otherworld and overcomes [is overcome by] king (queen) or fairy.
C 650.1 Customs connected with unique compulsion [”costume”]
N 659 Life saved by accident - miscellaneous
K 736 Snapping door
F 776.2 Perilous falling gate
D 905 Magic storm
D 925 Magic fountain
D 926.3 (Bm) Knight guards magic well [body of water]
D 1541.1.3 Magic fountain causes storm (rain).
H 1561.2 Single combat to prove valor
D 2143.1.1 Rain produced by pouring water

HvAIw-1135: Iwein finds no way out of the castle which is a splendid building. Suddenly a little door opens and a maiden (Lunete) rescues the trapped knight. She is very grieved because of her lord’s death but will help him out of gratitude: One day she was sent to King Arthur’s court on behalf of her lady and because of her uncourtliness was not shown due respect. Iwein however had been the only person to greet her nevertheless. She gives him a magic ring with a jewel rendering invisible when it is worn facing into the palm of the hand. She provides lodging and food for him as well and Iwein thus escapes Ascalon’s knights searching for him.

Motif References:

K 531 Escape from battle [danger] by magic invisibility.
D 817 Magic object received from grateful person
D 825 Magic object received from maiden.
N 831 Girl [woman] as helper
D 1071 Magic jewel (jewels)
D 1076 Magic ring
J 1111.6 Clever maidservant.
D 1361.19 Magic jewel renders invisible
D 1361.17 Magic ring renders invisible
D 1395.5 Magic ring enables captive to escape.
D 1980 Magic invisibility

HvAIw-1305: Iwein secretly watches Laudine following her husband’s bier. She tears her hair and clothes in lamentation and frequently loses consciousness from excessive grief. Iwein sees her body show through the clothes, she is so perfect that he falls in love with her immediately.

Motif References:

T 15 Love at first sight
T 95.0.3 Man loves sister [widow] of warrior he has slain
T 211.9 Excessive grief at husband’s or wife’s death
F 575.1 Remarkably beautiful woman
P 681 Mourning customs
F 1041.21.7 Swooning from grief
F 1041.21.6 Tearing hair and clothes from excessive grief

HvAIw-1355: It frequently has been assured as a fact that a dead man’s wound will start bleeding again in presence of the person who has inflicted it. When Ascalon’s corpse is carried into the hall his wounds begin to bleed because his slayer Iwein is near at hand. Again there is a vain search for Iwein. They finally call off the search and bury their lord. At Iwein’s request Lunete opens a window so that the knight can watch Laudine at her husband’s funeral. She tears and scratches herself from grief and Lunete can hardly keep Iwein from running straight to her.

Motif References:

T 211.9 Excessive grief at husband’s or wife’s death
K 531 Escape from battle [danger] by magic invisibility.
F 1041.21.6 Tearing hair and clothes from excessive grief
D 1318.5.2 Corpse bleeds when murderer touches it

HvAIw-1519: Iwein is tormented by his love for his enemy and the problem how he could escape Keii’s mockery when he cannot prove his success with any concrete evidence. He is seized by the power of Love who has found appropriate lodgings in his heart to stay with honor as it should be. Iwein’s love still increases when he watches Laudine who remains alone in mourning by the grave. Sitting in joys and sorrows he considers his love and the lady’s distress she innocently suffers because of him.

Motif References:

T 0 Love
T 95.0.3 Man loves sister [widow] of warrior he has slain

HvAIw-1738: Soon Lunete returns and Iwein assures her that he had quite a pleasant day. She soon realizes that he has her mistress in mind. Lunete is Laudine’s confident and warns her mistress of grieving too much for her valiant husband. God may well provide her with one equally fine. Laudine will have to choose a knight to protect her unless she wants to lose the fountain as well as her land. She warns her that a messenger has arrived with the news that King Arthur intends to come to the fountain within twelve days. So she has to prepare herself to defend her land. The author defends women against the accusation of inconstancy. They are only frequently seen to waver because of their goodness. Laudine asks Lunete what to do because she cannot ensure the safety of her land without a strong champion. But she cannot have anyone as her husband. Lunete says that she is wrong and that there are more excellent knights than her dead husband. In mortal combat indeed the victorious one must be more accomplished than the vanquished one and therefore the slayer of her lord must surpass him in excellence. Laudine cannot deny it, but she becomes very angry and tells Lunete to be gone. Lunete leaves and tells Iwein the news that her mistress is unbending in her attitude. They consider means to change the lady’s hostility.

Motif References:

P 20 Queens
P 28 Marriage of queen
T 53 Matchmakers
W 175 Changeableness
P 361 Faithful servant [vassal]
C 650.1 Customs connected with unique compulsion [”costume”]
J 1111.6 Clever maidservant.

HvAIw-2009: Laudine left alone regrets having rewarded Lunete’s loyalty so harshly and considers her situation. The next morning she asks her maidservant about the knight and if he might be her equal. Lunete assures her that she could find no better husband than Iwein and Laudine is eager to meet him. Lunete pretends that he is far away and has to be sent for. They agree that a page should bring him to her court as soon as possible. Lunete tells her to summon her vassals in the meantime to ask their consent to her marriage.

Motif References:

P 28 Marriage of queen
T 53 Matchmakers
T 66 Help in wooing
T 131.1 Relative’s consent to marriage necessary
T 231 The faithless widow
P 361 Faithful servant [vassal]
J 1111.6 Clever maidservant.

HvAIw-2177: Iwein is summoned; the page helps in the deception and conceals him. In the meantime Lunete bathes Iwein and gives him precious garments. Then she goes to see her mistress. She returns to Iwein pretending to have bad news: the Lady would know all about his being here, but will see him as her prisoner. He goes to join her joyfully but at her coldness remains silent until Lunete tells him to speak and to seek Laudine’s forgiveness. He falls at her feet immediately and asks for her favor. Laudine finally forgives him and asks him if he will marry her. He agrees. Laudine presents Iwein as her future husband to her council and they willingly give their consent. But she would have married him anyway. With plenty of clergymen there they are married without delay. Iwein is given the lady and the land and a lavish wedding-feast is celebrated with all sorts of knightly entertainments.

Motif References:

P 17.11 Slayer of king [sovereign] marries widow [daughter] and inherits kingdom [domain]
T 53 Matchmakers
T 55 Girl as wooer. Forthputting woman
T 127 (Bm) Woman weds husband’s [father’s, uncle’s] slayer
T 131.1 Relative’s consent to marriage necessary
T 136.1 Wedding feast
T 231.5 Faithless widow marries slayer of her husband.
P 634 Feasts

HvAIw-2446: The festivities are going on until Arthur enters the country, as he has sworn, and arrives at the magic fountain. Keii cannot withhold from mockery at Kalogreant’s cousin Iwein who evidently was only talking but never undertook this adventure. Gawein defends Iwein against his slanderous words and blames Keii for his hostility. Then Arthur raises a fierce storm by pouring water onto the stone.

Motif References:

F 162.8 Magic fountain in otherworld.
W 188 Contentiousness.
M 402 Satire [satirist]
D 905 Magic storm
D 925 Magic fountain
D 1541.1.3 Magic fountain causes storm (rain).
D 2143.1.1 Rain produced by pouring water

HvAIw-2542: Iwein sets out armed from the castle to defend the fountain. Keii who has been granted the first joust by the king waits for him. However villainous Keii is, he is nevertheless very bold. Otherwise the king would never have suffered him as his steward. Iwein unhorses and scorns him. He takes Keii’s horse and leads it to King Arthur. They recognize each other and Iwein tells the story of how he became lord of the country. Keii is still lying there an object of scornful derision to all of the knights. At Iwein’s request King Arthur and his court ride to Iwein’s castle with him and are provided with good hospitality. The queen is happy to see the guest as well. She now has no doubt whatsoever about his excellence and honor.

Motif References:

P 50.2 Marshall [Court officials: marshall, steward, etc.]
F 176 Hero fights in otherworld and overcomes [is overcome by] king (queen) or fairy.
W 188 Contentiousness.
L 400 Pride brought low
C 650.1 Customs connected with unique compulsion [”costume”]
D 926.3 (Bm) Knight guards magic well [body of water]

HvAIw-2697: Gawein and Iwein are true friends and Gawein demonstrates his sense of chivalry towards him. He thanks Lunete for her assistance to his friend thus providing him with so much prestige. When the guests are about to leave after one week Gawein takes Iwein aside and, reminding him how Erec wasted so much time for the sake of Lady Enite, warns Iwein to let his wife’s beauty bring him into dishonor by neglecting chivalry. He considers a knight’s duty to preserve his standing for his and his wife’s sake. Such a loyal woman like Laudine needs no more protection than her own honor and he could easily entrust the people and the country to her. Iwein asks his wife to grant him a favor which she does, not knowing that he could ask for something she would not be happy to grant. So she gives her approval that he leaves for one year to attend tournaments. At the same time she vows that he would lose her forever if he stays away any longer.

Motif References:

P 50 Noblemen (knights) [rules of chivalry]
Z 72.0.1 (Bm) Year time limit on quest
W 181 Jealousy
T 200 Married life
T 219 (Bm) Wife will no longer love husband if he is gone more than one year.
Q 266 Punishment for breaking promise
P 310 Friendship
C 761.1 Tabu: remaining on journey too long.
C 932 Loss of wife (husband) for breaking tabu.
H 1556.4 Fidelity in love tested
H 1557 Tests of obedience

HvAIw-2945: Laudine gives Iwein a ring as a token of the agreement: The stone gives good fortune and contentment and he who wears it will be blessed with happiness. Then King Arthur takes his leave and Laudine rides some miles with her husband before they part.

Motif References:

H 82.3.2 (Bm) Ring as fidelity token
D 815.8 Magic object received from wife.
D 1071 Magic jewel (jewels)
D 1076 Magic ring
D 1359.3 Magic object causes joy
D 1561.1.2 Magic ring brings good luck.
D 1561.1.7 Magic stone brings good luck.

HvAIw-2971: Hartmann has an argument with Mistress Love (vrou Minne) about Laudine and Iwein having exchanged hearts so that King Arthur takes the woman and the man with him. Hartmann wonders if that exchange of hearts might result in an inversion of their respective habits, but Love explains that on the contrary both will be all the more representative of their sex. And indeed Iwein becomes even a better warrior because of his love.

Motif References:

T 0 Love

HvAIw-2999: His friend Gawein proves to be Iwein’s downfall: they both take part in many tournaments and Iwein increases his glory but he neglects his promise and misses the time limit.

Motif References:

Z 72.0.1 (Bm) Year time limit on quest
C 761.1 Tabu: remaining on journey too long.

HvAIw-3064: Gawein and Iwein are praised for their exploits at Arthur’s feast at Karidol. Iwein remembers his promise and in the grip of remorse he sits absent-minded in complete silence. His mind has a foreboding of coming misfortune, a phenomenon familiar to the author.

Motif References:

T 26 Attention distracted by sight of (remembering) beloved [because of love]
D 1812.4 Future revealed by presentiment: “knowledge within”

HvAIw-3102: His wife’s messenger, Lunete, rides up, passing on her lady’s greetings to the king and his companions save one, the traitor Iwein, whom she blames of disloyalty. He therefore has lost his wife and has to send back her ring, for which Lunete has been sent to court. She bows to the king and leaves.

Motif References:

P 14.15.2 Court messenger
T 219 (Bm) Wife will no longer love husband if he is gone more than one year.
Q 266 Punishment for breaking promise
N 770.0.1 Feast as occasion for the beginning of adventures or the arrival of questers
D 868.2 (Bm) Magic ring must be returned by unfaithful lover.
C 932 Loss of wife (husband) for breaking tabu.
H 1556.4 Fidelity in love tested
H 1557 Tests of obedience

HvAIw-3201: Iwein has lost all his joy: he suffers from the blow to his prestige and his honor, his belated remorse, the loss of wealth and his pining for his wife. He loses his self-respect for he can only blame himself for his situation. Iwein steals away from court, unnoticed by anyone, until he reaches the open fields out of the courtiers’ sight. There he is overwhelmed by his remorse, in the grip of raging madness tears off his clothes and runs bare across the fields towards the wilderness. King Arthur wanting to comfort him sends someone to look for Iwein, but he is not to be found. Meanwhile Iwein takes a bow and arrows from a page he comes upon, so that he can live on the game of the forest, which he has to hunt without hounds and roast without any refinement.

Motif References:

P 55 Wild man of noble birth
T 93.1 Disappointed lover becomes wild man in the woods.
Z 181.1 Nudity as sign of madness.
F 567 Wild man
F 1041.21.6 Tearing hair and clothes from excessive grief
F 1041.8.2 Madness from grief

HvAIw-3283: One day Iwein comes upon a fresh clearing, deserted except for a hermit. Frightened by the mad knight’s appearance he flees into his cottage nearby and bolts the door. Still feeling not safe he offers Iwein a piece of bread through a little window. Iwein eats it and drinks some water from the hermit’s bucket. Some days later Iwein repays the recluse with some game-meat. They take the habit of Iwein providing game-meat for the hermit, and the latter giving him bread in return. The hermit also sells the skins to buy supplies they need, salt and better bread. In such a way the witless Iwein lives in the forest and becomes like a Moor all over his body. From his former life as a valiant and courteous knight there is no trace left in his appearance.

Motif References:

P 55 Wild man of noble birth
T 93.1 Disappointed lover becomes wild man in the woods.
Z 181.1 Nudity as sign of madness.
P 426.2 Hermit
F 567 Wild man
N 843 Hermit as helper
F 1041.8.2 Madness from grief

HvAIw-3359: One day three ladies find him sleeping not far from a road they happen to be riding along. Iwein’s disappearance is much talked about in the whole country, and that is why one of the ladies, looking at him carefully, recognizes him by one of his scars. She calls him by name and alarms her mistress, the Lady of Narison. They are quite aware of the assistance Iwein might give against their enemy, the Count Aliers, if he only could be cured at their hands. The lady of Narison has an ointment made by Feimorgan, which will cure any affliction of the mind, and all three ride for the ointment to their castle.

Motif References:

H 51 Recognition by scar
N 831 Girl [woman] as helper
D 1244 Magic salve (ointment)
D 1500.1.19 Magic healing salve.
D 1508.5 (Bm) Magic ointment cures madness.
D 1719.5 Magic power of fairy.

HvAIw-3436: The damsel who first saw Iwein is sent back with the ointment, which she is instructed only to apply where he is suffering the illness - he then would be cured at once. She should bring back the remainder to her. In addition beautiful garments are sent with her too. The damsel, quite eager to cure the knight, applies the ointment everywhere, then quickly moves away from him out of her sense of decency. Iwein soon comes to his senses, and, bewildered by his appearance as he looks at himself, starts doubting his identity. He thinks his former life might have been just a dream. When he sees the clothes lying to one side of him, he recognizes them as those he wore in his dream and clothes himself. He immediately looks like a knight again.

Motif References:

N 831 Girl [woman] as helper
D 1244 Magic salve (ointment)
D 1500.1.19 Magic healing salve.
D 1508.5 (Bm) Magic ointment cures madness.
J 2010 Uncertainty about own identity.

HvAIw-3597: As soon as the damsel sees that he is cured and in a decent state, she mounts her horse and rides past him, pretending not to be aware of him. He is too weak to jump up and so he calls after her. At the second call she turns and asks him how he came here, but he knows nothing about it and asks her to take him with her, which she does. At the castle of Narison Iwein is provided with all facilities. When the lady inquires about her ointment, the damsel tells her that she lost the box when she fell down into the water from her stumbling horse and nearly was drowned. The lady is annoyed but overlooks the loss for the sake of her gain, Iwein, who stays there until he becomes a handsome man again.

Motif References:

N 831 Girl [woman] as helper

HvAIw-3703: Some time later early one day they see approaching in strength Count Aliers. The knights of Narison who have already been hard-pressed and have given up defenses, now regain spirits from seeing Iwein advance audaciously. He causes the enemy to retreat and forces them to cede victory. Those who do not flee are slain or taken prisoner. Iwein is celebrated for his exploit and they wish he would become their lord and husband of their lady. The count Aliers however still remains at large and defends himself with a small force, but finally is forced to retreat toward one of his fortresses. Iwein catches up with him at the gate and forces him to surrender and promise to ride back with him into the custody of the lady of Narison. He has to fix hostages and pledges to make compensation for having laid waste her country. Iwein is accorded great prestige by the countess and her ladies and he would have been granted any reward asked, and she would have denied him neither her person nor her goods. But Iwein wants no more reward and soon he begs leave of her. Would it not be below her dignity she would ask him to marry her. The author says that it is wise to ask someone with whom a woman would not be doomed to fail rather than waiting to be asked by someone with whom she must be doomed. The Countess of Narison clearly asks him with her behavior, but Iwein does not pay any attention and takes leave.

Motif References:

Q 53 Reward for rescue
P 550.1.1 (Li) Aggression: rebellion; usurpation; invasion; assault
P 559 (Li) Peace: making and conditions of peace (ransom, reparations, submission)
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper

HvAIw-3828: Following a road he suddenly hears a loud voice, which leads him to a clearing where he sees a fierce struggle in progress between a lion and a fire-breathing dragon. Its heat and foul smell are about to get the better of the lion. Iwein decides to help the noble animal and kills the dragon.

Motif References:

B 11.2.11 Fire-breathing dragon
B 11.11.6 Dragon fight in order to free lion
B 11.11.11 (Bm) Dragon fights lion [panther]
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper

HvAIw-3869: Gratefully the lion falls at Iwein’s feet and welcomes him as his master. Henceforth he follows Iwein wherever he goes and is at his service when needed. The lion hunts game for Iwein, the animal sucks the deer’s blood, while Iwein skins the game and roasts it. The lion eats what is left over. When Iwein lies down to sleep the lion keeps watch of him and his horse. On Iwein’s search for adventure the lion provides food for his master with hunting.

Motif References:

Z 235 Hero with extraordinary animal companion
B 301.8 Faithful lion follows man who saved him.
B 360 Animals grateful for rescue from peril of death
B 431.2 Helpful lion
B 531 Animals provide food for men
B 575.1 Wild animals kept as dogs
B 576.1 Animal as guard of person or house.
H 1233.6 Animals help hero on quest

HvAIw-3923: Then chance takes Iwein back to Laudine’s land. When he comes to the fountain and sees the lime tree, the chapel and the stone he swoons from grief about his loss of honor, land and wife and sinks from his horse to the ground. As he falls he accidentally hurts himself by his sword and starts bleeding. The lion thinking him dead wants to kill himself by Iwein’s sword. Just in time Iwein wakes up and prevents the lion from stabbing himself to death. Then he laments his bitter fate.

Motif References:

B 301.3 Faithful animal plans suicide when it thinks master dead.
N 397 Accidental self-injury
F 1041.21.7 Swooning from grief

HvAIw-4011: His laments are overheard by a maiden (Lunete) who is being kept prisoner condemned to death in the chapel. Looking out through a crack in the door she asks who is lamenting and at Iwein’s question then tells her story: She has been blamed for her mistress’s bad marriage and will be burnt or hanged as a traitoress the next morning unless she finds a champion to fight for her. Three strong men, the steward and his two brothers, are accusing her. They have been hostile to her since long out of envy for the high regard their mistress paid to her. She was unable to find Gawein or Iwein or any champion on Arthur’s court within the granted limit of forty days.

Motif References:

R 41.2 Captivity in tower
P 50.2 Marshall [Court officials: marshall, steward, etc.]
Z 71.12 Formulistic number: forty [Forty days’ limit]
W 195 Envy
H 218.0.1 Vindication by champion. Usually noble lady or king accused
Q 411.4 Death as punishment for treachery
H 1381.8 (Bm) Quest for champion [helper]
K 2110.1 Calumniated wife
K 2242 Treacherous steward

HvAIw-4179: Iwein asks her what Iwein she is referring to and she says she means Iwein the son of Urien who married her lady at the maiden’s advice. Iwein recognizes her and tells her his identity. He says he will free her, defeat all the three knights and then slay himself. The combat must take place in Laudine’s presence without her knowing who he is until he dies, so that she will know that he lost his life and senses out of grief.

Motif References:

H 11 Recognition through story-telling.
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper

HvAIw-4275: Iwein asks Lunete where Gawein was who always does the will of ladies seeking his service and she tells him that she could not find him. A knight had abducted the Queen and Gawein had set out after him. The court was grieving for the lady and Gawein’s chase. Then Iwein promises to return the following morning for the combat, tells her to tell no-one who he is and leaves.

Motif References:

R 10.5 (Bm) Queen abducted
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper
H 1381.8 (Bm) Quest for champion [helper]

HvAIw-4357: Iwein rides until he comes to a castle, which is strongly fortified but the outbuildings have been burnt down. Iwein is welcomed at the castle in an excellent way. For the sake of their guest’s benefit they feign joy although they are suffering but soon their sorrow proves victorious and they start lamenting and weeping. Iwein asks about their grief and the host informs him of his troubles. A giant (Harpin), the host rejected as suitor of his daughter, is taking revenge on him by devastating his country. He has taken prisoner his six sons who are all knights and hanged two of them where the host was forced to see it. The giant intends to kill the others as well to force the knight to give him his daughter, whom he intends to give to the lowest servant he has.

Motif References:

R 11.3 Abduction by giant [wild woman]
R 51.4 Prisoner[s] [hostages, messengers] massacred [killed]
T 75.2.1 Rejected suitors’ revenge
R 99.2 (Bm) Princess [maiden] as ransom.
T 104.3 (Bm) Giant tortures [kills] man’s sons to win his daughter.
S 113.1 Murder by hanging
P 253.0.5 One sister and six (seven, eleven, twelve) brothers.
T 450 Prostitution and concubinage
Q 499.7 Humiliating marriage as punishment.
F 531.5.7.0.1 Giant woos mortal woman
F 531.5.19 (Bm) Giant’s prisoners
F 531.5.11 Giant in contest [combat] with man

HvAIw-4510: At his question Iwein learns that his host has been unable to find a champion at Arthur’s court. A knight (5680: Meljaganz) came riding there seeking a favor of the King because he had heard of his generosity. King Arthur granted whatever the stranger required provided it was a proper request but he refused to grant a rash boon. The knight left court in a rage and said that thus many have been deceived in the king’s good name. At the Round Table’s advice the King had him brought back and promised to fulfill whatever he asked. Thereupon the stranger asked that he might take away the queen. Seeing the king’s trouble the stranger said he would only take her if he was able to defend her against all challengers. Then he took away the queen.

Motif References:

R 10.5 (Bm) Queen abducted
W 11 Generosity
P 12 Character of kings
K 100 Deceptive bargain
M 223 Blind promise (rash boon)
H 1381.8 (Bm) Quest for champion [helper]
H 1552 Tests of generosity.

HvAIw-4624: All knights prepared an urgent chase. Keii boasted that he could defeat him without any difficulty and was the first to meet the stranger who thrust him up out of the saddle so that he was caught by his helmet on a branch and hung by the throat. He thus suffered discomfort and shame. Kalogreant found him there hanging like a thief, it suited him however, and he hurried to the stranger and was defeated. Dodines the Wild, Segremors, Henete, Pliopleherin, Millemargot and Iders were defeated as well. They all saw Keii hanging there and rode on. Later he was set free. Gawein was not there and when he came the following morning he set out after the knight to win back the queen or die. At the same time Iwein’s host sought Gawein, who is his brother-in-law.

Motif References:

W 117 Boastfulness.
Q 330 Overweening punished
L 400 Pride brought low
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper
H 1381.8 (Bm) Quest for champion [helper]

HvAIw-4740: Iwein is moved to pity and promises to fight the giant Harpin before he will fulfill his appointment with Lunete at midday. The host’s wife and his beautiful daughter appear and are delighted to learn that they have won a fighter against the giant. The host begs them to throw themselves to Iwein’s feet out of gratitude but the knight replies that he would not suffer such an improper situation. He repeats on what condition he will fight. They provide him with all pleasure and entertainments possible. They think him an excellent and courtly knight judging this from the fact that the lion lies beside him and behaves like a sheep.

Motif References:

Z 235 Hero with extraordinary animal companion
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper
H 1556 Tests of fidelity [loyalty]

HvAIw-4825: In the morning Iwein is waiting for the giant to arrive. He is troubled seeing no one come and says that he could not possibly be delayed any longer. The host offers him his wealth but Iwein rejects it. They entreat him to hold on for the sake of Gawein and he finally is ready to stay. In the dilemma between two obligations Iwein considers his desperate situation: he cannot manage both duties nor leave only one of them without losing his honor. Finally the giant and his prisoners arrive. The prisoners are devoid of clothing save for the meanest shirts, they are tied together and ride bad horses. They are driven along by a dwarf, who strikes them with his whip so that they bleed all over.

Motif References:

R 51 Mistreatment of prisoners
F 451.5.2 Malevolent dwarf
F 531.5.19 (Bm) Giant’s prisoners
F 531.5.11 Giant in contest [combat] with man
F 531.6.16.3 Man [dwarf] as servant of giant.
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper
H 1556 Tests of fidelity [loyalty]

HvAIw-4953: The giant leads his prisoners to the castle gate and shouts he would hang them if they were not ransomed with their sister. The Knight with the Lion rides to fight the giant, who mocks at him seeing him coming. Iwein replies he should leave empty talk and let him have deeds. The giant has only got a pole as weapon. They start fighting fiercely. Iwein manages to wound the giant, but is struck by a heavy blow. The lion sees his plight and runs at the giant savagely. Finally Iwein pierces the giant’s heart with his sword.

Motif References:

R 111.1.4 Rescue of princess (maiden) from giant (monster)
B 431.2 Helpful lion
F 531.6.12.6 Giant slain by man
F 531.4.5.2 Giant with iron bar as weapon
F 531.5.19 (Bm) Giant’s prisoners
F 531.5.11 Giant in contest [combat] with man
B 571.3 Animals fight together with their master.
F 628.2.3 Strong man kills giant
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper

HvAIw-5075: There is great joy about the giant’s death, but Iwein begs leave at once, for he has no time to lose. The knight and his wife put all their possessions and their lives at his disposal but Iwein only asks them to ride with their children and the dwarf to Arthur’s court in order to inform Gawein of what Iwein did in their service. If he asks his name they should only let him know that there is a lion with him. He would recognize him from that. The host promises to do so and begs him to return after his fight at the fountain.

Motif References:

Q 53 Reward for rescue
Z 235 Hero with extraordinary animal companion
P 555.4 (Bm) Defeated knights [giant, rescued persons etc.] sent under oath to king [lady, queen] (as proof of victory)

HvAIw-5145: Iwein arrives just in time at the chapel, where the stake has been made ready and the fire laid under it. Lunete, her hands being bound, is on her knees at her prayers. He commands them to let the maid live, for he will fight as her champion. Looking around he sees Laudine and very nearly loses his senses. The young ladies of the household are lamenting about Lunete who has been their loyal companion. Then Iwein thus strengthened in his intention to fight asks Lunete to show him her oppressors and she shows him all three. Iwein does not care for the steward’s threats and insists on Lunete’s innocence. He has God and the truth on his side and there is greater strength in this than in the steward’s company. The steward mocks God’s help and urges Iwein to set the lion aside, which he finally does.

Motif References:

R 175 Rescue at the stake
H 218.0.1 Vindication by champion. Usually noble lady or king accused
Q 411 Death as punishment
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper
H 1556 Tests of fidelity [loyalty]

HvAIw-5307: They start fighting and Iwein unhorses the steward who lies senseless. The remaining two ride against him again. All ladies pray to God to apply his support for Iwein is sorely harassed by his adversaries, who can however not win any advantage over him. Meanwhile the steward comes to his senses again and goes to help his brothers. Then the lion joins the battle and kills the steward. Now there are two against two, Iwein and the lion against the steward’s two brothers. Seeing the lion wounded Iwein presses them hard and defeats them. He does not complain of any suffering from his own wounds but only of that of the lion. It is the custom at the time for the guilty party to suffer the same death as would have been suffered by the innocently accused party and thus the steward’s brothers are laid on the stake to be burnt.

Motif References:

R 175 Rescue at the stake
H 218.0.1 Vindication by champion. Usually noble lady or king accused
Z 235 Hero with extraordinary animal companion
Q 411 Death as punishment
B 431.2 Helpful lion
B 571.3 Animals fight together with their master.
Q 581 Villain Nemesis.
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper

HvAIw-5438: All thank Iwein for having rescued Lunete, who now has won back Laudine’s favor, she unjustly lost and Laudine makes up the distress she suffered as long as she lives. Iwein leaves without being recognized. It is strange that his mistress does not recognize him, yet she implores him to stay in order to cure his and the lion’s wounds. Iwein however refuses, for he will never rest nor rejoice until the day when he regains his lady’s favor which he lost unjustly. Laudine criticizes this woman and asks him his identity. He tells her that he is called the Knight with the Lion. Then he leaves in a sad mood. Lunete, who keeps him company for a good way, promises to have his interests in mind and he thanks her for it.

Motif References:

Z 235 Hero with extraordinary animal companion
K 1813 Disguised husband visits his wife
K 1831.0.1 Disguise by changing name

HvAIw-5564: The lion is so severely wounded that Iwein carries him laid in a soft bed of moss in his shield on his horse in front of him. Then they come to a castle where a courteous page bids him welcome and the host provides him with every comfort possible. The host’s two daughters take care of him and his lion so that they are quickly healed. Iwein stays there a fortnight until he has fully recovered.

Motif References:

P 320 Hospitality

HvAIw-5625: At this time the Count of the Black Thorn dies and leaves behind two young ladies. The elder daughter wants to deprive the younger one by force of the legacy which is rightly at the disposal of both of them. At this the younger one announces that she will defend herself in single combat by a champion she is sure to find at King Arthur’s court. The unkind sister however, secretly leaves and reaches the court before her. She secures Gawein as her champion and makes him promise to tell no one anything about that cause. The younger sister, who out of childish inexperience has revealed her intention, sets out later.

Motif References:

H 218.0.1 Vindication by champion. Usually noble lady or king accused
P 252.1 Two sisters
P 527 (Li) Problems of inheritance (legacy)
H 1381.8 (Bm) Quest for champion [helper]
K 2212 Treacherous sister.

HvAIw-5678: At this time the Queen Ginover has returned to court having been abducted by Meljaganz. They have already been told the news of the giant slain by the Knight with the Lion and Gawein is very grateful for the rescue of his relatives. He does however not know the knight’s identity.

Motif References:

R 111.1 Princess (maiden) rescued from captor
K 1831.0.1 Disguise by changing name

HvAIw-5699: When the younger sister of the Black Thorn arrives at court she does not find a champion there, because Gawein in whom her hopes laid has undertaken another task. She goes before King Arthur and says she will search for the Knight with the Lion as her champion. But if her sister would show good will she would give to her whatever she has a right to. The elder sister refuses to share anything with her. King Arthur sets a combat for six weeks’ time to decide the sisters’ dispute.

Motif References:

Z 71.12 Formulistic number: forty [Forty days’ limit]
P 252.1 Two sisters
P 510 Law courts
H 1381.8 (Bm) Quest for champion [helper]
K 2212 Treacherous sister.

HvAIw-5761: The younger sister leaves and rides throughout the lands without finding the Knight with the Lion nor news of where he might be found and she falls ill. She comes to the castle of one of her kinsmen and tells him her business. He keeps her there to rest and sends in her place his own daughter. The maiden rides all day until night approaches. She suffers great discomfort by cold, rain and wind. Then she hears the sound of a horn which guides her to a castle, where she is provided with all facilities for her comfort. They ask her about her business and she says that she searches for the Knight with the Lion. She learns that her host has been relieved from a hostile giant by this knight. The giant had laid waste his country, slain two of his children and taken four of them prisoner and would have hanged them. The maid is happy about the news but the knight does not know where his rescuer went. The next morning he shows her the way he went and the road takes her to the fountain where Iwein slew the steward. She asks for the Knight with the Lion and people send her to Lunete, who finally shows her the road Iwein and his lion took when they left. Then she arrives at the castle, where Iwein and his lion have been healed. Iwein has just taken leave and the maiden soon catches up with him.

Motif References:

R 51.4 Prisoner[s] [hostages, messengers] massacred [killed]
S 113.1 Murder by hanging
F 531.6.12.6 Giant slain by man
F 531.5.11 Giant in contest [combat] with man
F 531.5.19 (Bm) Giant’s prisoners
F 628.2.3 Strong man kills giant
N 831 Girl [woman] as helper
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper
H 1233.2 Relation as helper on quest.
H 1235 Succession of helpers on quest
H 1381.8 (Bm) Quest for champion [helper]

HvAIw-5997: She greets Iwein and then tells him the story of the two sisters of the Black Thorn. The younger sister will be deprived of her inheritance unless she finds a champion. She started the search for him herself but soon fell ill and begged the maiden to beseech the Knight with the Lion to help her. Iwein willingly will do what she requires and asks the maiden to guide him.

Motif References:

H 218.0.1 Vindication by champion. Usually noble lady or king accused
P 252.1 Two sisters
P 527 (Li) Problems of inheritance (legacy)
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper
H 1381.8 (Bm) Quest for champion [helper]
K 2212 Treacherous sister.

HvAIw-6080: Iwein and the damsel come to a castle where they want to spend the night. When they enter the town below the castle they are received rudely. Iwein is angry about the bad welcome, but then a lady, who overhears his angry words, tells him that people do not speak with malice but with good intent feeling sorry for his honor and for the lady because he certainly will lose his life in the castle. It is an order that no one may find lodgings outside the castle. Iwein says that it is too late to follow her advice and they ride ahead to the castle. The gate-keeper lets them in and receives them with many threats but Iwein is unconcerned. Inside the gate he sees a large workhouse and in it through a window three hundred women at work. They are thin and pale and have poor clothes. They are manufacturing precious works from silk and gold, doing embroidery and all sorts of needlework and spinning. When they become aware of him their pains increase from shame and they weep. Iwein asks the gate-keeper about these poor women but only receives a rude reply, saying that Iwein certainly will leave in disgrace. He repeats his question but the gate-keeper refuses any information.

Motif References:

R 41.1 Captivity in castle
F 150.2.4 (Li) Extraordinary porter at entrance to otherworld castle
F 771.4.8 (Li) Castle of deep sorrow
N 820 Human helpers
N 831 Girl [woman] as helper
K 2244 Treacherous (hostile) porter

HvAIw-6283: Iwein finds a door to the house and goes in to the ladies and asks them about their poor condition. One of them tells him their story: They come from the Isle of Maidens. The lord of this land out of childish inexperience rode in search of adventure. He suffered the fate Iwein will suffer as well in this castle: Every knight passing by has to fight two strong giants. The lord of the Isle of Maidens was very young and too weak. So he had to concede victory without a fight and bought his freedom by giving them hostages. Every year he has to give them thirty maidens as tribute. Only if ever a man should defeat the giants they would be freed. The women in the workhouse have been sent as tribute. They have to labor for the giants, who have become rich from their profits whereas the women live in misery.

Motif References:

R 41.1 Captivity in castle
R 51 Mistreatment of prisoners
R 99.2 (Bm) Princess [maiden] as ransom.
G 111 Giant ogre(s) possess(es) castle
F 112 Journey to land of women
M 234 Life spared in return for life-long service [material compensation, peace treaty]
S 262.2 Tribute of youths regularly sent to foreign king.
G 400 Person falls into ogre’s power
P 531.1.2 (Bm) Tribute of 30 maidens a year.
F 771.5.2 Castle guarded by giants (ogres)
F 771.4.8 (Li) Castle of deep sorrow
H 1221 Quest for adventure
H 1561.6 Test of valor: fight with giant [warrior, dwarf-hero, dragon etc.]

HvAIw-6425: Iwein and the damsel come to a deserted hall, follow a passage to a splendid garden. There they find an old gentleman on a bed with his wife sitting in front of him and their daughter who entertains them by reading a story. When they see the guest they receive him well and the knight’s beautiful and courteous daughter takes care of the guest. They sit and talk until a servant announces to the host that dinner is ready. When they have eaten they are given their quarters and the night passes peacefully. When Iwein wants to take his leave the next morning, the host announces to him that he has to observe his custom as were all knights who came to the castle. He has to fight two giants and if he manages to defeat them both he will be given the host’s daughter and after the host’s death all his land. As long as they are undefeated he cannot give his daughter to any man. Iwein replies that he refuses the daughter because he is not a proper match for her and that he will not risk his life because of her. The knight accuses him of cowardice and says that he might fight just as well for otherwise the giants will slay him defenseless.

Motif References:

T 68 Princess offered as prize
Q 112.0.1 Kingdom as reward
H 1561.6 Test of valor: fight with giant [warrior, dwarf-hero, dragon etc.]
K 2294 Treacherous host

HvAIw-6654: Iwein prepares himself for the combat. The two giants arrive, heavily armed and carrying clubs. They insist that Iwein leaves his lion in an enclosure. Then the unequal fight starts and the giants press Iwein hard. The lion troubled by his master’s predicament manages to escape from the enclosure and attacks one of the giants. His companion wants to slay the lion but Iwein comes to its aid. Iwein and the lion then kill the second giant. The other one surrenders.

Motif References:

B 431.2 Helpful lion
F 531.6.12.6 Giant slain by man
F 531.5.11 Giant in contest [combat] with man
F 531.4.5.0.1 (Bm) Giant ‘s [wild man ‘s] club.
B 571.3 Animals fight together with their master.
F 628.2.3 Strong man kills giant
H 1561.6 Test of valor: fight with giant [warrior, dwarf-hero, dragon etc.]

HvAIw-6799: The host offers Iwein his daughter and his land, but Iwein refuses this reward because he is not free to marry. The host replies that he must take her, otherwise he would make him his prisoner. Iwein says that this marriage is likely to be unfortunate, for he might be slain in a combat he has undertaken. Then he reminds the host of his obligation to free all prisoners for Iwein’s benefit. All captive ladies are freed, cared for and provided with good clothes and horses. They regain their health and extraordinary beauty within a short time and ride away with Iwein.

Motif References:

R 111.2 Princess rescued from place of captivity
L 225 Hero refuses reward
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper
H 1556.4 Fidelity in love tested

HvAIw-6870: Iwein now joins the lady to whom he has promised to fight for her cousin. They find her in the care of the lady’s father. They arrive just in time for the combat. Gawein, the champion of the elder sister of the Black Thorn, has asked that his identity be kept hidden and has stolen away pretending other business, but returned in secret, emblazoned in unknown colors. King Arthur and all his retinue are sitting there to observe the combat, when finally Iwein and the maiden arrive. Iwein has left his lion on the way, not wanting to involve it in the combat. No one knows his name nor identity.

Motif References:

P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
H 1556 Tests of fidelity [loyalty]
H 1561.2 Single combat to prove valor
K 1821 Disguise by changing bodily appearance

HvAIw-6908: Both knights ride into an enclosure. All those present are grieving for the two knights and beg King Arthur to ask the elder sister to share the legacy with the younger one, but she rejects with fervor. So King Arthur bids the ring be cleared. Iwein and Gawein are excellent knights, quite adept at fighting. Neither of the two friends recognizes his adversary. In the author’s opinion it is impossible for love and hate ever to occupy one vessel, but in these two fighters there is love as well as hate. Ignorance divides their hearts, so that one friend wants to slay the other.

Motif References:

W 151 Greed
H 218.0.1 Vindication by champion. Usually noble lady or king accused
P 252.1 Two sisters
P 310 Friendship
P 314 Combat of disguised [unrecognized] friends. [Unwitting attack on friend]
P 527 (Li) Problems of inheritance (legacy)
P 550.2 (Li) Single combat
N 767.1 (Bm) Unwitting combat between friends. [Unwitting attack on friend]
K 2212 Treacherous sister.

HvAIw-7075: Iwein and Gawein engage in a furious combat. The battle lasts from the morning until well in the afternoon. Weariness forces them to sit down to rest. Then they continue fighting anew and even more furiously. Never had the courtiers seen a more equal contest. Everyone is concerned for their honor and their life and they begin to discuss how they could separate the fighters honorably. The king’s appeal to the older girl’s good will is in vain. But the younger one troubled by the good knights’ suffering says that she rather would renounce to her claim than to see the knights’ death. The courtiers beg the king to plead with the sister that she might be willing to grant the younger one a third or even less of her inheritance. But the King is so annoyed with the older sister for her unyielding attitude that he rejects the plea. Night separates the champions.

Motif References:

W 151 Greed
H 218.0.1 Vindication by champion. Usually noble lady or king accused
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]

HvAIw-7370: Iwein asks his opponent to tell him his name which he does. As soon as the friends have recognized each other both are eager to become the other’s prisoner. The friendly argument between them continues some time until the people enquire about the meaning of the affection between the two champions. Gawein tells the King that he and Iwein are friends and that Iwein’s prowess and Gawein’s own unjust cause would certainly have brought about his death if night had not intervened. There is much discussion with each of them being seen to add to the other’s glory. Then the King asks to leave this dispute up to him. He summons the ladies and asks: “Where is the girl who denied her sister her inheritance and the wealth that their father left both of them?” The older sister traps herself and thus admits her own iniquity. She tries to justify by referring to women’s silly talk for which they should not be punished and begs him not to use force against her. The King insists that she let have her sister her portion or come out of the affair with shame and no credit at all. The older sister gives in.

Motif References:

H 151.10 Combat of unknown brothers [relatives, unrecognized friends] brings about recognition
H 194 (Bm) Recognition only through direct revelation of identity
P 252.1 Two sisters
P 310 Friendship
P 510 Law courts
P 527 (Li) Problems of inheritance (legacy)
J 1141.1 Guilty person deceived into gesture (act) which admits guilt
K 2212 Treacherous sister.

HvAIw-7727: Meanwhile, the lion has escaped from where he has been locked up and sets up in pursuit of his master. All flee to save their lives until Iwein says that the animal is his friend and will do no harm. They realize that he is the famous Knight with the Lion. Gawein realizes that it was Iwein who slew the giant for Gawein’s sake and promises to repay his debt. It is arranged for both of the knights to rest where their wounds are treated so that they soon are well again.

Motif References:

H 30 Recognition through personal peculiarities
Z 235 Hero with extraordinary animal companion

HvAIw-7781: Iwein however still is afflicted by his love for his lady and decides to try to regain her love. With his lion he steals away and raises a violent storm at the fountain. It is so fierce that nobody expects to survive and people curse who first settled in this territory. Lunete advises her lady that she should quickly find the man with whose help she may put an end to this destruction. Laudine asks Lunete for advice and she says that they first should look for someone of their household as protector. But Laudine has no hope in this respect. Therefore Lunete advises her to send for the knight who slew the giant and saved her from the stake. This knight however would only help them if she would strive to help him find some way of regaining his lady’s love. Laudine agrees and Lunete takes her oath on the relics that Laudine will undertake the task to regain his lady’s love.

Motif References:

M 105 Equivocal oaths
M 114.4 Swearing on sacred relics
T 298 Reconciliation [reunion] of (separated) couple
P 361 Faithful servant [vassal]
C 650.1 Customs connected with unique compulsion [”costume”]
D 905 Magic storm
D 925 Magic fountain
J 1111.6 Clever maidservant.
K 2319.4 (Bm) Ambiguous oath forces lady to take back errant husband.

HvAIw-7941: Lunete sets out to find Iwein and discovers him at the fountain. She recognizes him by his lion and tells him that her mistress is prepared to break her word. There is great rejoicing by the two of them. They have a friendly dispute who has overpaid the other by his or her service. Iwein asks if Laudine knows that it is him and she answers that her mistress will learn in good time. They ride to the castle and Lunete hides him in her quarters. Laudine receives Iwein who falls to her feet in full armor. Lunete begs her to reconcile the knight with his lady who should forget her anger and Laudine promises to do so. Then Lunete says that he is Iwein, her husband, and Laudine is ensnared by her oath. Iwein admits to be sorry for having done wrong and promises never to do it again if he regains her favor. She will keep her oath and asks him to forgive her all the hardship he had to endure because of her. Lunete is very happy about this reconciliation. With her good sense she has brought their mutual ill-will to a happy conclusion and she certainly was recompensed for it. It is to be assumed their life was a happy one.

Motif References:

M 105 Equivocal oaths
T 298 Reconciliation [reunion] of (separated) couple
P 361 Faithful servant [vassal]
J 1111.6 Clever maidservant.
K 2319.4 (Bm) Ambiguous oath forces lady to take back errant husband.

Matière de Bretagne

Hartmann von Aue, Iwein (>1190/1200) Benecke, G.F./Lachmann, K. (ed.): Hartmann von Aue, Iwein. 7th Ed., revised by Ludwig Wolff. Berlin 1968. Benecke, G.F (ed.)/Thomas Cramer (Transl.): Hartmann von Aue, Iwein. 3rd Ed., Berlin 1981.

Hartmann von Aue, Iwein (>1190/1200)
Benecke, G.F./Lachmann, K. (ed.): Hartmann von Aue, Iwein. 7th Ed., revised by Ludwig Wolff. Berlin 1968. Benecke, G.F (ed.)/Thomas Cramer (Transl.): Hartmann von Aue, Iwein. 3rd Ed., Berlin 1981.