Lohe-1: Clingsor and Wolfram of Eschenbach have a riddle contest: Clingsor tells the story of a father who by various means (shouting, blowing a horn, slapping in the face) tries to wake a child that is sleeping on top of a dike to save it from the rising waters (the wind constantly keeps driving the waves towards the dike, while night is already falling). At last he throws a club toward the child. This child was to follow the weasel (Ezsydemon) yet preferred the counsel of the lynx that brought this dangerous sleep on him. The dike breaks and the place is flooded. Clingsor asks for the solution of this riddle and praises Wolfram of Eschenbach. Wolfram solves the riddle: The father represents God, the child the sinner, the horn the priests. God’s first punishment is sorrow, the second mis-fortune, and the last one is death. Only to confess his sins and true repentance can rescue the sinner from eternal punishment in hell. The dike means each man’s life time which is limited by God, the waves mean the years to come, the wind the coming days. The weasel represents the angel, the lynx the devil.

Motif References:

Z 100 Symbolism
Z 150 Other symbols
H 548 Riddle contest
H 767 Allegorical riddles
H 810 Riddles based on the Bible or legend

Lohe-8: Clingsor continues the riddle contest which takes place in front of the prince of Thuringia. His question: Where are God’s secrets to be found? There is a dice with four aces, each of them has a value of its own. A three has been thrown. Wolfram gives the interpretation: Once Brandan entered the darkness, took the Book from an oxen’s tongue, which is the dice’s first ace, the lion is the second one, the eagle the third, and mankind the fourth.

Motif References:

Z 100 Symbolism
V 220 Saints
H 548 Riddle contest
H 767 Allegorical riddles
H 810 Riddles based on the Bible or legend

Lohe-11: Clingsor declares that Wolfram could not possibly have found the solution of his riddle by simple wisdom of a lawman and concedes that Wolfram must have a good knowledge of astronomy. He will send his servant, the devil Nazarus, to tell him about Wolfram’s arts. Wolfram, referring to Aristotle and Daniel as authorities for the truth of his words, replies that Brandan conferred his book to Uranias who took it to Scotland. Clingsor then relates all his knowledge about Brandan: Uranias told the saint about Heaven, Hell and Earth. An angel brought the book to Brandan, which made him suffer distress later on: Unwilling to believe in those writings, he lost his temper and threw the book into the fire. Thereupon he was ordered to search for it. Then Nazarus speaks up and gives a riddle concerning the constellation of the seven planets in the firmament, the position of the north pole and the star Antarticus, and he asks about the meaning of Saturn’s position in the East. Wolfram replies: God, whom he asks to protect him against the demon, is the master of the universe, but that question is dark, and Wolfram, who only has some knowledge about the West, the East, the course of the stars, the music of the spheres, and that God bestowed the powers on the planets as he did concerning day and night, is unable to solve that riddle. Nazarus replies that Wolfram should leave the victory to Clingsor.

Motif References:

C 61 Disbelief in religious teachings
V 227 Saints have divine visitors
G 303.9.7 The devil advises human beings
Q 550 Miraculous punishments
H 1219 Assignment of quests - miscellaneous

Lohe-18: Wolfram draws the sign of the Holy Cross before him and thus chases the devil, who joins Clingsor. Nazarus tells him that Wolfram is so powerful a man that he will refuse his help if Clingsor challenges Wolfram. Clingsor replies that he knows necromancy, astronomy, singing and poetry and he knows well how God created Lucifer. There are only three wise men who could tell about it: One of them lives in Greece, the second in Babylonia, and the third one, Clingsor, has left Hungary for the time being. Clingsor declares that a man his equal in wisdom could only be found in Paris.

Motif References:

G 303.16.3 Devil’s power avoided by the cross

Lohe-22: Clingsor says that although he is a very wise cleric he has been defeated by a lawman. Clingsor asked Felicia, child of Sybille and Iunas living with Arthur in the mountain, about the king’s and his retinue’s life there. Wolfram would have to question her to be taught Clingsor’s secret knowledge. Felicia also told him that her virginity enabled her to see that famous abbot in the mountains, who wrote the story about Arthur and those one hundred heroes the king took with him into the mountain from Britanje. No villainous person is able to relate that story. When Arthur left this world he sent out warriors to Christian lands. Once a bell summoned his help in a matter brought about by a count’s death. The bell’s enormous din brought great distress to the court. Wolfram gives his reply: From Brandan he learnt that Felicia and Junas stay with Arthur. But Clingsor cannot tell anything about the warrior whom Arthur sent out nor the person who caused the bell to start its din. God made Lucifer out of four winds, but mostly he received the character of Aquilon, which caused his superbia.

Motif References:

Z 71.16.2 Formulistic number: ten
F 184 Otherworld king
H 548 Riddle contest
A 571.1 Culture hero still alive in hollow hill
F 721.2 Habitable hill
F 966 Voices from heaven (or from the air)
D 1213 Magic bell
D 1317.7 Magic bell gives alarm
D 1960.2 Kyffhäuser. King asleep in mountain

Lohe-29: At this point the prince of Thuringia begs Wolfram to relate to them the story of Lohengrin who was sent out by Arthur as soon as the ladies have been sent for. Clingsor too is eager to hear this tale. When the Countess and her ladies have entered the palace of the Wartberc Wolfram begins to tell his story: Elsam of Prabant carries a little bell for God’s sake with her when she prays (on her paternoster - rosary). Whenever distress causes her to weep the bell rings out and, not minding the distance, alarms the Arthurian court. Elsam is a virtuous duchess, orphan both of her mother and father. She has rejected the wooing of count Friderich of Telramunt for he is not her equal, reminding him that arrogance once has caused Lucifer’s downfall. On his deathbed her father, the duke, had given land, possessions and people in Telramunt’s care. He also ordered him to serve his daughter as his sovereign. The count however plots against his mistress by claiming that she has promised to marry him. The matter is brought to the emperor’s law court and will be decided by a judicial combat of Telramunt and the lady’s champion.

Motif References:

T 75.2.1 Rejected suitors’ revenge
P 110 Royal ministers
H 218 Trial by combat
D 1213 Magic bell
D 1317.7 Magic bell gives alarm
D 1421.0.1 Magic bell summons helper
D 1601.18.1 Self-ringing bell
K 2247 Treacherous lord [vassal]

Lohe-36: When Elsam fails in finding a champion her chaplain, who is named Albian, counsels her to pray to God for help. One day one of her falcons fighting a crane was wounded and one of his claws lamed. Elsam removed a tiny bell from its claw. Following the chaplain’s counsel she prays to God, weeping and tearing her hair in distress. Her tears make the bell ring. The chaplain who is singing mass hears the bell’s enormous din as loud as a thunderbolt and resounding as far as France. The din alarms the Arthurian court that now has to send a champion otherwise all their joy would be lost forever. Telramunt is an honorable and generous man and had he not broken his faithfulness towards his sovereign he would have been highly honored. He also is famous for having once traveled to Stokhalm to slay the dragon of Sweden, and therefore no one dares to fight him.

Motif References:

B 11.11 Fight with dragon
H 218.0.1 Vindication by champion. Usually noble lady or king accused
F 966 Voices from heaven (or from the air)
D 1213 Magic bell
D 1317.7 Magic bell gives alarm
H 1381.8 (Bm) Quest for champion [helper]
D 1421.0.1 Magic bell summons helper
H 1561.6 Test of valor: fight with giant [warrior, dwarf-hero, dragon etc.]
D 1601.18.1 Self-ringing bell

Lohe-41: The din of the bell causes great suffering to King Arthur and his court. The King declares that they must have somehow aroused God’s anger and therefore twenty priests should ask the Grail for advice with due ceremony. Yet despite the festive religious ceremony (in which Arthur takes part as crowned king) and the prayers of the clerics, of King Arthur and all his noblemen the din goes on. Therefore the Queen and her ladies all clad in penitential robes and with scourges process before the image of Holy Mary in the cathedral. The weasel’s, Ezsydemon’s, love named Sibini becomes pregnant by his voice, and forty weeks later the young is born out of her nose. It does not need any nourishment except the gold’s luster and its mother’s breath. The queen and her ladies gather before the Grail.

Motif References:

Z 150 Other symbols
F 184 Otherworld king
B 751 Animal’s fanciful treatment of their young
B 754.6.1 Unusual impregnation of animal
B 754.7 Unusual parturition of animal

Lohe-46: Key offers his advice to the queen (because of the din he has to shout): They should have three maidens, Elyz, daughter of Parzival, Penylle, Lanzelet’s daughter, and Gawein’s daughter Sygelint put on special maidenly garments (Vlesiant that Iudas once brought from the Pelibron) and they should fly falcons. Thereupon the Grail will carry out whatever Holy Mary commands. The queen relates this to Arthur and the courtiers and the precious garments are made ready without delay. The shoes they put on have been given from Sybille to her daughter. Felicia gives them precious belts. Parzival bids them wait until a mass has been sung before the Grail. As soon as the turtle-dove has brought the wafer to the stone all of them should enter the church. The children go before the Grail and let the falcons fly (with a formula: “wir müezen iu vreude geben”). As a result of this ceremony an inscription appears on the Grail informing them that a maiden in Prabant suffers distress from her father’s counselor. The best champion of Arthur’s court must be sent there at once. Only then the bell will be silent.

Motif References:

V 80 Religious services - miscellaneous
B 150 Oracular animals
V 211.10 Letter (message) of Christ
V 250 The Virgin Mary
B 811 Sacred animals [dove, falcon]
F 883 Extraordinary writings (book, letter)
D 1273 Magic formula (charm)
D 1310 Magic object gives supernatural information.
H 1381.8 (Bm) Quest for champion [helper]

Lohe-52: The king and the courtiers are eager to be chosen as champions: Arthur, quite certain of his chivalric qualities, Parzival, who has fought against the heathens in Persia, Gawein, who has won great fame in Spain, and once fought one day and one night against two strong giants - he killed one of them, and captured the other. Walban then says Lohengrin should be chosen, for he is a valiant and strong hero. But he is still very young, and therefore he, the veteran Walban, ought to go. Lanzulet, greatly annoyed that he has not yet been chosen champion, wants to leave at once for Prabant. Elyze reminds him that according to the Grail’s inscription the choice is up to the king and his lords. Then the young knight Iorant, who has a belt giving him eight men’s strength, declares himself ready to set out for Prabant, claiming to be the best fighter. Lohengrin joins the company with his sister, who looking at him begins to weep: She tells them the Grail has destined Lohengrin as champion. His mother, Parzival’s wife, is very grieved and laments. Young Lohengrin is armed by Parzival, who sends Kyir of Kummerlant with him as his squire. A fine steed is made ready for him. When he takes his leave his mother swoons.

Motif References:

F 531.6.12.6 Giant slain by man
F 610 Remarkably strong man
F 628.2.3 Strong man kills giant
D 1057 Magic belt
D 1335.4 Magic belt gives strength
H 1381.8 (Bm) Quest for champion [helper]
D 1812.4 Future revealed by presentiment: “knowledge within”

Lohe-63: When Lohengrin is about to mount his horse God sends a boat driven by a swan. The knight leaves his horse behind and goes aboard the ship, taking only his sword with him. He refuses food and wine his father has sent for, because Lohengrin trusts in God to provide everything he needs. The sea is rather rough and Lohengrin does not enjoy a quiet journey. The swan catches a fish and being very hungry eats it at once. Lohengrin admonishes the animal that it ought to have given him his share, for they are companions on this journey. Thereupon the swan fishes a dry wafer out of the sea that nourishes both of them. Soon the swan begins to sing a wonderful song like an angel and Lohengrin falls asleep. In the meantime the chaplain relates to Elsam that he has listened to her bell’s din resounding very far and that God will send her a champion. The duchess has sent word to her vassals and relatives and many of them have come to Antwerp. When the day appointed for the judicial combat has drawn near the swan with Lohengrin sleeping in the boat arrives at Antwerp. People are gazing at the wonder as the swan comes to the shore. The journey has not taken more than a week’s time. The chaplain brings the news to his lady.

Motif References:

V 30 Sacrament [host]
Z 150 Other symbols
B 172.2.1 Magic bird’s song brings sleep
V 231.1 Angel in bird shape
B 558.1 Boat drawn by swans (geese)
B 811.5 Sacred swan
F 851 Extraordinary food
D 1030 Magic food
D 1275 Magic song

Lohe-73: Meanwhile the throng gathered at the landing place has woken the knight, yet the swan takes his distance from them. The chaplain declares that the duchess herself should go to receive her champion. A holy abbot, sent there from her grandfather, the king of England, gives his counsel: They are meant to give a decent reception for they are watching a miracle. Thereupon bells are rung, and in a great cortège carrying sacred relics they go to receive the stranger. When Lohengrin catches sight of the relics and of the lady he honors them by getting to his feet. To the abbot, who is a man of chastity, the swan appears in the shape of an angel for some seconds, and the man falls onto his knees. Yet neither the bishop nor the abbot are allowed to assist the knight in getting out of the boat. Elsam goes to welcome him and Lohengrin has her lead him to the shore.

Motif References:

V 140 Sacred relics
V 231.1 Angel in bird shape
F 252.5 (Bm) Fairy knight.
V 510 Religious visions
B 811.5 Sacred swan

Lohe-79: As soon as Lohengrin has left the boat and his armor and weapons have been taken to the shore the swan leaves. Lohengrin insists that his sword, which is very heavy, is carried by the treasurer, although the prince of Lorraine desires to carry it. After a mass has been sung in the church Lohengrin declares that he has come as Elsam’s champion. The duchess has one of her knights relate the matter in detail to him: Lohengrin learns that his opponent is a valiant warrior popular with many people and enjoying the emperor’s favor for he served him well. Therefore Elsam has not much support from that side. Lohengrin promises to help the lady. He dons rich clothes. Lohengrin is a very handsome man, and Elsam is a beautiful and virtuous lady. They fall in love. After dinner there are courtly entertainments and dancing. Before she goes to sleep Elsam asks her uncle, the prince of Lorraine, to care for her guest. Elsam has a council with the bishop about how to arrange their journey to the imperial law court.

Motif References:

T 15 Love at first sight
F 252.5 (Bm) Fairy knight.
F 575.1 Remarkably beautiful woman
F 575.2 Handsome man

Lohe-106: At this point Wolfram interrupts his tale and asks Clingsor if he wants to go on with it. Both the lady and the prince of Thuringia as well as Clingsor urge Wolfram to continue. Wolfram goes on with his story: After mass has been sung early that morning Elsam has a council with the bishop and the abbot, her vassals and kinsmen, to prepare her journey with her retinue to the imperial law court which is to be held four and a half weeks later. Word is sent throughout the country to summon her vassals as well as the towns of Limburc and Prabant. They all agree to support their lady and her train in every way. This news pleases her well. She is very beautiful and virtuous. In the mass all pray to God to grant them his aid - which he is about to do - and thank Him that He has sent them a champion. The guest is well cared for. In a council Elsam holds with her lords and vassals they decide who should be summoned to accompany her to the court of the Emperor. Word is sent to them and the happy news that God has bestowed a champion to their lady will make all of her vassals and kinsmen support her quite readily. Meanwhile they have a pleasant time at the court, with dancing and love talk.

Motif References:

P 14.15.1 (Old, wise) Counsellors of court [King’s council]
P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]

Lohe-158: The news of Lohengrin’s arrival somewhat displeases Telramunt, but he declares that he will defeat him in combat and win the lady’s hand. Following the advice of his kinsmen he summons his allies and sends word to the Emperor to remind the latter of his obligations towards him. The news however have made many of his friends change sides. Elsam is very pleased on hearing that all those she has summoned will come with her. The guests arrive and are well looked after. There is courtly entertainment, bohourt, jousting and dancing. According to Elsam’s demand all jousting ends until after the ordeal. Then they set out in a splendid train with all lords of the land. At Sarbrücke a great camp is made where Elsam welcomes her relatives. She and Lohengrin have fallen in love at first sight. Lohengrin pleases them all perfectly. They travel on for five days until they arrive at Menz. Word is sent to the Emperor who dwells at Frankenfurt that the lady has arrived.

Motif References:

T 15 Love at first sight
P 510 Law courts

Lohe-191: Telramunt has already arrived beforehand. The Emperor and his wife give a friendly welcome to Elsam and her retinue. The Emperor then declares that the Hungarians are about to attack the empire and summons the lords’ help. On Whitsunday all guests, among them highest court officials and the seven electors, have arrived, whose duties have been determined by Charlemagne. There is jousting and courtly entertainment. The Emperor and the lords would have preferred to settle the matter without combat, but this cannot be done. The ordeal will consist in a knightly combat on horseback with shield and spear. The circle for the duel, to be entered by nobody but the fighters, is made ready the evening before. In the morning the abbot Gundemar sings mass, another mass is sung by bishop Wipprecht and Friedrich of Telramunt joins the Emperor who is hearing mass sung to him by a bishop. The emperor takes care to be faithful to both sides and wishes good luck to Telramunt as well as to Elsam and Lohengrin.

Motif References:

P 12 Character of kings
W 35 Justice
H 218 Trial by combat
P 557.4 Customs concerning single combat

Lohe-208: Telramunt appears in splendid armor to meet Lohengrin, whose shield and helmet shine brilliantly and who has a fine steed. Peace has been proclaimed by solemn oath and on pain of death. The judicial combat begins and Telramunt and Lohengrin charge fiercely at each other. Then they dismount and continue fighting with their swords. The fierceness of the combat grieves the ladies watching from the stand and Elsam weeps and wrings her hands. Lohengrin is hardly pressed by his opponent yet seeing his lady in distress restores his strength. Both fighters are strengthened by their love. Telramunt receives a heavy blow so that he thinks night has fallen and Lohengrin seeing him quite dazed grants him some rest, which makes the emperor and the lords praise Lohengrin. When the combat goes on Lohengrin is about to get the better of his opponent, but Telramunt refuses to surrender and would rather be killed. At last however Lohengrin forces him to give security and to give up his false claim to the highborn maiden. According to the Emperor’s counsel Lohengrin chooses a speaker, the count Iohan of Lützelburc. Many men beg that mercy should be given to Telramunt, yet he is to be decapitated. The law court proclaims that Elsam has been vindicated. Telramunt’s head is cut off.

Motif References:

H 218 Trial by combat
H 218.0.1 Vindication by champion. Usually noble lady or king accused
Q 262 Impostor punished
P 510 Law courts
P 557.4 Customs concerning single combat

Lohe-227: Elsam claims Lohengrin as her husband, the latter however declares neither the maiden nor any other person could claim him. Thereupon Elsam asks the Emperor to decide the matter. Though Lohengrin insists that he never promised to marry the lady, the lords decide that he is to marry her. Lohengrin then tells her in private that he will not refuse marriage to her but she would have to keep a tabu (which is not given in detail) otherwise he must leave her. The maiden promises to do whatever he would ask her. - At this point Wolfram asks Clingsor to tell about that tabu, which he can not, and if he has heard some stories about his ancestor Clingsor, a magician, who once abducted some ladies from King Arthur’s court, who later on were rescued at Schahtelmarveil by Gawein. Clingsor replies that one of his ancestors once had been the scribe of this man Clingsor, and that he burnt his books when the latter had died. He had been sent from Rome to the king of Hungary, who then was named Clingsor after him. Wolfram then continues his story: After Elsam has been told Lohengrin’s tabu and given her promise never to break it, the Emperor marries them to each other. The Emperor and his wife declare that the wedding should take place at their court, yet urged by Elsam’s people agree to come as their guests to Prabant where the wedding feast is to take place.

Motif References:

C 32 Tabu: offending supernatural husband
T 55 Girl as wooer. Forthputting woman
T 68 Princess offered as prize
Z 202 (Bm) Fanciful ancestry of hero
F 252.5 (Bm) Fairy knight.
F 301 Fairy lover [husband].
C 932 Loss of wife (husband) for breaking tabu.
D 1711 Magician

Lohe-233: The Emperor once again summons all his lords to join his campaign against the Hungarians. After Lohengrin has been enfeoffed by the emperor the company sets out for Prabant where a splendid wedding feast is held in the town of Antwerp. The Empress herself leads Elsam to the bridal chamber and the Emperor bids the couple a good night. Very early next morning the ladies go to see them and there is much laughing about them, Elsam lying asleep in her husband’s arms. They are given rich garments and the emperor and his wife have breakfast with them. Then they hear mass sung by a bishop. The king of England desires to become a knight and the emperor dubs him together with five hundred companions, while Lohengrin dubs one hundred knights, to whom he gives like clothes. The festival continues and in the tournament many men are wounded.

Motif References:

T 136.1 Wedding feast
P 561 Tournaments

Lohe-245: An unknown knight clad in red clothes first, then in green ones, takes part in the tournament for his love’s sake and excels in jousting. That knight is Lohengrin, whom they finally recognize. The land’s coat of arms is engraved upon a precious jewel. Lohengrin continues to joust and unhorses several knights. In the evening they enjoy courtly entertainments. Next morning after mass has been sung the Emperor once again urges the lords and vassals to bear in mind that they must defend the Empire against the heathens which they all promise. At Lohengrin’s question the emperor tells him that nine years before he defeated the heathens at Merseburg, yet they laid siege to Augsburg not long afterwards. Bishop Ulrich was overcome and they devastated the lands of Saxony. Yet the Christians captured a heathen count who offered rich ransom of silver and gold. They released him on condition that peace would be guaranteed for nine years time. The Emperor fortified the lands, won vassals and allies, and made them receive baptism. At this point however the king of Hungary once again has demanded tribute from the empire. The Emperor’s reply consisted in sending him a hound that had its ears cut off, meant to be the only tribute the King of Hungary would obtain from them without fighting. Thereupon war was declared and the Huns started their campaign.

Motif References:

R 99 (Bm) Ransom
P 173.3 Captives from battle (sold as slaves)
R 222 Unknown knight (Three days’ tournament)
V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 531 Taxation and payment of fines and tribute
P 550.1.1 (Li) Aggression: rebellion; usurpation; invasion; assault
P 556 Challenge to battle

Lohe-259: Lohengrin promises to assist in fighting the Huns. The duke Giselbreht of Lorraine will join the Emperor’s campaign too and the latter promised to give him his daughter in marriage. When they learn that the Hungarians have made camp near the river Ens the Emperor leaves. The knights return home, promising their military aid. In the meantime the Hungarians devastate Bavaria and approach Franken, claiming that it is their possession from old, as well as Thuringia. A heathen detachment lays siege to Iethelburc, the others go to Saxony. They hang many a Christian. The Christian army sends scouts to spy on them. Their numbers are so superior that the Christians are almost discouraged and many men refuse to follow the emperor and prefer to stay behind. Lohengrin fights at the Emperor’s side, who is joined by the Bavarians and the Franks. God helps the Christian army: The arrogant heathens are weakened by a rainy night and when in the morning a thick fog darkens the battlefield the Christians attack them. The Christian war-cries frighten the heathens, for they think the enemy must have come upon them in huge numbers.

Motif References:

V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 550.1.1 (Li) Aggression: rebellion; usurpation; invasion; assault
P 557.0.3 (Li) Military aid (alliance)
N 817.0.1 God as helper
F 962 Extraordinary precipitation (rain, snow, etc.)
K 2320 Deception by frightening

Lohe-273: On both sides many men are killed. The souls of the heathens have to burn in hell, whereas all Christian dead obtain salvation. Many heathen fighters are quite defenseless for their swords have been ruined at night by heavy rainfall. When the heathens take to flight the Christians pursue them up to Iethelburc. Many heathen besiegers are frightened and flee. At this point the remaining troops who have stayed behind join the Emperor’s forces and pursue the heathens. Many of them drown in a river and their numerous corpses block the ford. The Christians continue their pursuit and slay many heathens. Their flight is slowed down for they have to carry many wounded comradeswith them, but at last they leave them behind. People now take revenge for the devastation of their lands beforehand. When they reach the Danube many enemies are drowned.

Motif References:

R 260 Pursuits
V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 550.1.1 (Li) Aggression: rebellion; usurpation; invasion; assault
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
P 557.0.3 (Li) Military aid (alliance)
F 827 Extraordinary ornaments

Lohe-292: The Emperor then turns back to Regensburc, where the townspeople welcome him and bestow rich treasures on him, precious and money heaped upon shields for his treasure chamber. Then the fighters return home. Lohengrin joins the Emperor on his journey to Köln where the empress Mehthilt and Elsam are waiting for them. The happy news already have been brought to them. Before they meet their wives in the town of Köln the Emperor encourages the Bavarians and the Franks to rebuild their castles and cities, for they will be safe from the Hungarians from now on. Everybody is very happy when the Emperor and Lohengrin arrive at Köln and thank God for the victory in a holy procession (displaying the holy relics). The empress and the duchess receive rich presents: two golden clasps ornamented with many precious jewels.

Motif References:

V 80 Religious services - miscellaneous
Q 111 Riches as reward
V 140 Sacred relics

Lohe-315: The lords arrive and to honor the Emperor (Heinrich of Saxony) and his kin because of his triumph declare that he should bear the title “Emperor” although he has not yet been consecrated in Rome and that he and his successors should be called “Father of the Land”. The Emperor is known also by a nickname, Heinrich the Vogler. That name was given him because he was out hunting birds when he was chosen emperor. Then the Emperor has a splendid dinner with the lords at his palace. He praises Lohengrin who excelled in battle against the heathens. After dinner they are entertained by numerous musicians. News come to them that the bishop of Köln has died. The Emperor and his wife with many lords assist the burial and the bishop Wipreht of Lütich, who also fought against the Huns, sings funeral mass for the bishop. By will of the lords and his father the Emperor’s son Brun succeeds the bishop of Köln. Due to Brun’s youth however this decision does not meet the clergy’s general approval, but finally they agree and in a festive ceremony he is consecrated bishop. His mother too had some part in it, Holy Mathilde, who later on was canonized because of her chastity. The Emperor and his counsel decide to send word to the Pope to ask him to consecrate the Emperor and his son. When Lohengrin and Elsam want to take their leave the Emperor asks them to stay three days longer and makes Lohengrin his governor during his absence. He will send for him as soon as he gets news from Rome.

Motif References:

P 13.5 Crowning [and making] of kings
P 110.0.1 (Bm) Faithful steward [knight] as regent
P 121 (Bm) Pope
P 122 (Bm) Archbishop and bishop
V 294 The Pope
Z 731 (Bm) Eponymous account of nicknames

Lohe-332: Lohengrin and Elsam take leave from the Emperor and his wife and return to Prabant, where they receive a friendly welcome and many gifts. In the meantime the Emperor travels to Alsace where he proclaims public peace and orders his people to fortify castles and towns against the Hungarians. At that time it happens that Jews martyr the image of God, so that blood and water come from it. Due to this marvel many Jews receive baptism. The blood is kept in the monastery of Ouwe near Ravensburc in a vessel of crystal. He who is unable to see it will die the year to come. Soon the Pope sends word to the Emperor that he agrees to consecrate him and his son Brun. The Emperor summons his lords in Menze giving the land in their care and at the same time sends word to Lohengrin. When the latter has arrived a falcon-hunt for herons is arranged.

Motif References:

V 140 Sacred relics
V 150 Sacred objects - miscellaneous
V 331.1.1 Conversion to Christianity by miracle of seeing blood flow from Jesus’ image
V 340 Miracle manifested to non-believers
M 341.1 Prophecy: death at (before, within) certain time
D 1003 Magic blood - human
D 1624.2 Wounds of crucifix bleed

Lohe-343: The Emperor’s son-in-law is sent as a messenger from the French king. The Emperor and his wife as well as Lohengrin give him a friendly welcome. In the morning after they have heard mass the Emperor has a council with Lohengrin and his lords. They decide that the Emperor will set out for Rome only after he has arranged peace with the French king. A diet is arranged in Bunne, where king Karl of France and the young king of Arl soon arrive. Lohengrin helps to arrange peace between them which is sealed by a written contract about Lorraine, that will be part of the Empire from then on. Moreover both countries promise military aid to each other. At that point the Pope urges the Emperor to help him against the Saracens, who have devastated the South of Italy and have already taken the hill near Rome named Galerianus, which they have fortified. The mighty Greek Emperor fights at the Pope’s side. The prince of Prabant should accompany the Emperor and if he were ready to fight only as a mercenary the Pope promises to give him gold. The Emperor replies that Lohengrin never would accept payment for fighting the heathens. He will decide upon the campaign after a council with his lords. In the meantime the Pope’s messengers talk to Lohengrin and offer great riches to him, gold coins on strong new shields, urging him to join the campaign. Lohengrin refuses all riches offered by the messengers, saying this should be given to the Emperor and the lords, but he promises to fight the heathens for the sake of God.

Motif References:

P 14.15.1 (Old, wise) Counsellors of court [King’s council]
P 14.15.2 Court messenger
Q 111 Riches as reward
V 350 Conflicts between religions

Lohe-363: In the morning the king of Arl is enfeoffed by the Emperor, who then asks the king of France to stay for he would like to hear his advice concerning the Pope’s message. In the meantime word has also been sent to Paris urging the French to join the campaign against the heathens as well, so as to obtain heavenly and worldly reward. As soon as the king of Arl and the duke of Lorraine have received their fiefs the Emperor has a council with his lords, who advise him to travel to Italy and fight the heathens. The Emperor begs the prince of Prabant to become his regent, but Lohengrin refuses for he wants to accompany his sovereign. Even the Empress, talking to him in private, cannot make him change his mind. The Pope’s messengers are sent back with the Emperor’s reply that he will gladly fight the heathens in Italy and that the prince of Prabant will accompany him. The king of Arl and the duke of Lorraine also promise to fight in this war. The king of France declares that he would gladly come too, but he has to return home beforehand. The Emperor agrees with his counselors that his son Otto will be regent, and makes his lords give him their oath of fidelity toward his son. They all give their oath to obey the Emperor’s command.

Motif References:

P 14.15.1 (Old, wise) Counsellors of court [King’s council]
P 14.15.2 Court messenger
P 17.0.2 Son succeeds father as king
P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
M 100.0.1 (Li) Oath of allegiance
P 193 (Bm) Guardian [regent]
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
P 557.0.1 (Li) Council of war

Lohe-379: Meanwhile the kings of France and of Arl have left in the company of Lohengrin and Giselbreht of Lorraine. The Pope’s messengers return to Italy with good news. When all the princes have returned home they prepare their campaign against the heathens in Italy. The lord of Prabant has chosen three hundred knights and two hundred warriors whom he will dub knights as soon as May has come. He thus follows the custom of his kinsman, King Arthur, who enjoys may time with his knights and ladies. Then he asks the bishop Wipreht to care for Elsam and his lands, as well as his little son, who after the famous Priest Johan has been baptized Iohan. Elsam bestows great riches (costly fabrics and four caskets of precious) upon her husband so that he can decently enjoy May and a great amount of money to be used only in case of need. The latter is kept secret from him and his companions, so that Lohengrin cannot give it away for the sake of generosity. Those who care for that treasure give her their oaths to keep it well. Furthermore as a token of her love she gives to him a costly clasp with an emerald, protecting against unchastity and infidelity, which she has worn next to her skin. When Lohengrin leaves Elsam swoons from grief.

Motif References:

W 11 Generosity
P 53 (Bm) Obtaining knighthood
T 59 (Bm) Love tokens
P 110.0.1 (Bm) Faithful steward [knight] as regent
P 122 (Bm) Archbishop and bishop
T 200 Married life
F 305 Offspring of fairy [dwarf] and mortal
P 311.5 Covenant of friendship
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
T 596 Naming of children
F 826 Extraordinary jewels
F 1041.21.7 Swooning from grief
D 1071 Magic jewel (jewels)
D 1380.11 Magic jewel protects
D 1387 Magic object preserves chastity.

Lohe-388: The troops are to meet in Basel, where the Emperor will join the king Rulf of Burgundy. The latter once gave him the lance of Longinus, which from then on, as well as the nail of the Holy Cross, is part of the Imperial Treasure. It is a wondrous spear, which restored a blind man’s sight when the water and blood from Christ’s wounds were applied to his eyes. Lohengrin and the Emperor go to see the king of Burgundy, who receives them well, and gladly will join their campaign. Soon the army sets out for Italy toward Meilan. Townspeople send word to them telling that they have been told about the Emperor’s high praise and that of the prince of Prabant, and therefore will gladly offer hospitality to him and his troops. Soon the king of Arl joins them. Meanwhile the king of France has sent word to them that he will come within four days. They greatly enjoy the town’s generous hospitality. The town also will give them horses and warriors. The army continues the journey and soon is joined by the troops of the French king. One day when they are about to eat the Emperor receives a letter with a messenger urging them to hurry for meanwhile the Greek emperor and the Pope have been defeated by the huge heathen army and were forced to retreat into Rome. The Emperor replies that it was unwise to face the heathens without waiting for him and his troops. The messenger then goes to meet the prince of Prabant to give him a letter. The king of France arrives and is told the news. They soon will leave to attack the heathen army.

Motif References:

P 19 Other motifs connected with kings
P 19.4.0.1 King’s wand (rod) [regalia]
V 140 Sacred relics
V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
F 834 Extraordinary spear
F 952.6 Miraculous cures- blindness cured by drop of water from side of crucified Savior
D 1003 Magic blood - human
D 1084 Magic spear
D 1500.1.7.3 Magic healing blood
D 1500.1.17 Magic weapon cures disease
D 1505.8.1 Blood from Christ’s wounds restores sight

Lohe-412: Word is sent to the Pope that military aid will arrive soon. He should have waited for it beforehand so as not to endanger the honor of Christianity. Meanwhile a council is held to decide who should stay at home to protect the lands and who should join the campaign against the heathens. The leaders of the different troops are chosen. On getting the news that the Christian army is approaching the Pope and his men are very happy. When the heathens hear that the famous duke of Prabant will fight them, they promise to kill him, how valiant he might be. Their forces outnumber those of the Christians by far. Both armies come to the battlefield (the heathens, who wear splendid clothes, meanwhile have organized their troops as did the Christians before) and a fierce battle begins. Many heathens and Christians are killed. The heathen leader, the baroch, claims that he should be Pope and promises to his fighters forgiveness for all misdeeds on earth and eternal happiness if they die in battle. Their gods will help them gain the victory.

Motif References:

Q 170 Religious rewards
V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
P 557.0.3 (Li) Military aid (alliance)

Lohe-460: Eleven Christian warriors led by three knights, all dressed alike in white clothes, do great harm to the heathen army. Five of them are killed in battle, but their three leaders take revenge on the spot and split a heathen king from head to the saddle. On the battlefield the Pope consecrates the Emperor and his wife, who then is sent into the town of Rome. The Emperor is told that Lohengrin secretly has come to the battlefield with twelve men, of whom five have been slain, and that they have killed many enemies. The Emperor goes to see Lohengrin, who tells him that valiant fighters helped him in battle. The three of them were dressed alike, but he does neither know who they were nor where they went as soon as the fighting came to an end. The caliph gets the news that several of his kings have been slain by a hero leading thirteen warriors of whom five have been killed. That strong knight cut one of the heathen kings in two from head to the saddle.

Motif References:

Z 71.8 Formulistic number: twelve
V 220 Saints
R 222 Unknown knight (Three days’ tournament)
V 229.7 Invaders miraculously defeated by saints [Saints as helpers in battle]
V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War

Lohe-480: The heathens think that unknown knight must be the duke of Prabant, who has changed his coat-of-arms. Thereupon another heathen troop enters battle. As soon as the Christians will be defeated the caliph will become Pope and his brother-in-law emperor of Rome. All the kings and princes fighting in their army will receive rich reward and the Christian lands will be theirs. The battle continues. At last the caliph and his brother, joined by several kings, enter battle to fight against the Emperor who has waited for them. The heathens take a large bell with them to proclaim the military commands. News comes to them that unknown knight who killed many heathen kings is the duke of Prabant, whose device is a white swan. The caliph promises riches or lands to the man who would kill Lohengrin. The sounds of the bell with trumpets and flutes start the attack of the heathen army.

Motif References:

V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
P 557 Military customs

Lohe-509: The Pope declares that any Christian killed in battle will obtain salvation. And for each heathen slain that day one Christian soul will be rescued from hell. Therefore they all should strive to kill as many heathens as possible so as to deliver their ancestors from hell or purgatory. In the meantime Brun has been consecrated bishop and he will take the Christian banner. All princes and lords of Europe have joined the Christian army led by the German Emperor, their war-cry is “Rome”. They display many different coat-of-arms, but each of them also has the Holy Cross as device. The king of Scandinavia, who is fighting on the heathen side, tries to harm the king of France by taking a Christian banner displaying the Cross. The French king kills him on the spot. The Christian fighters excel in battle, but the bishop of Metz is killed. Lohengrin’s banner displays a white swan on red ground as his device and his helmet-crest is a red boat with a swan both made of gold and precious jewels, which both are set on top a golden crown. This most costly device is meant to remind of the knight’s journey to Prabant and has been bestowed on him by Elsam. An inscription made from jewels on the crown tells that it is a gift from the duchess who waits for his happy return.

Motif References:

P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols - coat-of-arms
H 126 Identification by coat of arms
Z 150 Other symbols
Q 170 Religious rewards
P 557 Military customs
F 824 Extraordinary [part of] armor
F 883 Extraordinary writings (book, letter)

Lohe-537: The prince of Prabant goes to battle under his device so as to be recognized. Heathens and Christians fight fiercely and many men are killed. The duke of Prabant excels in battle. The Emperor and his son Brun show great valiance as well. At last the heathens are forced to retreat and take to flight. The caliph leaves behind his wagons with his gods and the heathens try to escape by their ships. Some of them are made captives and have to give security to Lohengrin. When evening has come many men still pursue the heathen army (and catch rich warriors in order to obtain ransom), others care for the dead and wounded. Many men become rich from the possessions of the slain enemies. The Pope himself sings mass on battlefield, imploring God to point out the slain Christians on the battlefield, and a message written with golden letters tells him that the Christian corpses would be white for three days whereas the heathen corpses would be black. He proclaims this news and says that all Christian dead will obtain salvation. As they witness this wonder many captive heathens wish to be baptized, others believe this must be necromancy.

Motif References:

V 59 Prayers answered - miscellaneous
Z 71.1 Formulistic number: three
H 126 Identification by coat of arms
Z 142 Symbolic color: white
Z 143 Symbolic color: black
V 211.10 Letter (message) of Christ
R 260 Pursuits
V 331.1 Conversion to Christianity through miracle
V 350 Conflicts between religions
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]
D 1266.1 Magic writings (gramerye, runes)
D 1310 Magic object gives supernatural information.

Lohe-596: The Christian dead are buried, the wagons with the idols of the heathens are burnt. The most worthy Christian leaders are buried in the cathedral of Saint Peter. The dead heathen kings are carried from the battlefield and Lohengrin sends cloth for their biers from the town. The bones (corpses are cooked to destroy the flesh) of all unidentified heathen bodies are taken aboard the ships to take them home to their gods. The heathen fortifications on the hill Galerianus are burnt. The duke of Prabant has a council with the lords. He wants them to ask the Emperor to release the captive kings for his sake because they are valiant warriors. The Emperor gladly releases the captives. Lohengrin makes them promise peace toward the Pope and the emperor Andreas of Greece, which is sealed by written contract. Lohengrin does not accept any ransom but bestows riches on them instead. Their dead kings and the wounded are taken aboard the ships. The sea does not bear unclean things, therefore the flesh has been cooked off the bones, which then were embalmed, so that the heathens can take their dead with them. They are well received in their lands and obtain praise for not having fled the enemy. The Christians now will be safe from the Saracens.

Motif References:

V 1.11 Worship of idols
W 11.5 Generosity toward enemy
V 60 Funeral rites
V 61 Various ways of disposing of dead
V 69.1 All dead are buried after battle
P 173.3 Captives from battle (sold as slaves)
V 350 Conflicts between religions
C 541.1 Tabu: dead body not to be on ship
P 559 (Li) Peace: making and conditions of peace (ransom, reparations, submission)
P 683 (Bm) Embalming

Lohe-619: (6105) Meanwhile the empress has left the town and with her retinue has gone to a splendid meadow on a brook (locus amoenus: beautiful trees, flowers, birdsong) where a wonderful tent has been made ready for her. Many knights have accompanied her, all are waiting impatiently to see the famous duke of Prabant. The emperor of Greece and the Pope join the Emperor and Lohengrin to meet the empress. The ladies don rich clothes for the sake of the Prabant. They arrive in a great train with music and a meeting is arranged in the tent. Many ladies have fallen in love with the Prabant who is very beautiful. The daughter of the Greek emperor who is the wife of the king of Lamparten thanks Lohengrin for without his help the heathens would have defeated them. People got to know that he was the unknown knight fighting fiercely just before he entered battle leaving his incognito. He killed nine heathen kings. Lohengrin replies that the most valiant feats were done by two unknown warriors who wore the same coat of arms as he himself. The lady says that it was Lohengrin who killed those kings though he was accompanied by fourteen warriors (dressed alike), of whom five were killed.

Motif References:

T 10 Falling in love
F 575.2 Handsome man

Lohe-631: The Emperor and the Pope join their conversation and they learn that the Pope knows who were those warriors but will not tell in public. He met them on the battlefield and at his inquiry they disclosed their identity, but only the emperor, the empress, the queen of Lamparten and Lohengrin are to learn the secret. They were Peter and Paulus, who were sent by God to protect the Holy Places against the heathens. They killed no one but brought salvation to many. As soon as they had disclosed their identity to the Pope and just before the heathens turned to flight they vanished before his eyes. The company has a pleasant time on that lovely meadow. Next morning the Pope receives the Emperor at Saint Peters Church. All guests have donned festive clothes. In a splendid train (scharlach and golden cloth under their feet on the roads) the Emperor and Lohengrin go to meet the Pope. They are honored guests of the Pope who has a council with the emperor.

Motif References:

A 182.3 God (angel) speaks to mortal
V 229.7 Invaders miraculously defeated by saints [Saints as helpers in battle]
V 294 The Pope
D 2095 Magic disappearance
D 2188 Magic disappearance

Lohe-649: The Emperor has not yet received the crown from the hands of the Pope, because the heathens interrupted with their attack, moreover the Empress had to leave for Rome and Lohengrin sneaked away to fight unrecognized in the battle against the heathens. The crowning takes place on Whitsunday with all noblemen present. Rome gives a large amount of money to the Emperor. The Prabant receives a precious golden object, ornate with many jewels protecting against sickness, cold, unchastity, and bringing joy. The lords receive rich gifts as well. The Pope bestows costly clothes made of salamander fabric upon the emperor. This fabric has been worked by salamanders in the fire, it is fire-proof and renews by burning. The pope sends this fabric to the Empress and to Lohengrin. Moreover the Emperor leaves many a gift to Lohengrin, who offers them to his wife. The Emperor is happy that Lohengrin and Elsam are wearing clothes alike to his and the Empress’.

Motif References:

P 13.5 Crowning [and making] of kings
Q 111 Riches as reward
B 768.2 Salamander subsists on fire
D 810 Magic object a gift
F 821.1 Dress of extraordinary material
F 826 Extraordinary jewels
D 1052 Magic garment (robe, tunic)
D 1071 Magic jewel (jewels)
D 1342 Magic object gives health
D 1359.3 Magic object causes joy
D 1382.6 Magic shirt protects from cold and burning
D 1387 Magic object preserves chastity.
D 1656 Incombustible objects

Lohe-655: The crowning ceremony takes place on Whitsunday: After the Emperor has been granted forgiveness of his sins and promised virtuosity and justice towards widows and orphans the Pope crowns him. During the ceremony the Emperor is prostrated in the form of a cross before the altar. The Pope then crowns the Empress, and declares that Peter and Paul have fought with the Christian army. The Emperor enfeoffs his vassals. The Pope has dinner together with the Emperor, his wife, and Lohengrin. They stay for one month and have a pleasant time. Then the guests take leave. The Pope accompanies the Emperor and his men to Meilan. He says that everyone who fought the heathens will obtain salvation. The king and queen of Lombardei return home as well, which makes the queen very sad. She has fallen in love with Lohengrin, which is due to his ancestor Gahmuret, for whose love the black queen of Zazamanc died. Though that queen was black he thought her heart to be white because of her love, yet he left her for she was not baptized.

Motif References:

T 10 Falling in love
P 13.5 Crowning [and making] of kings
T 91 Unequals in love
T 230 Faithlessness in marriage [love]
V 350 Conflicts between religions

Lohe-667: They arrive in Meilan, where the emperor stays for four weeks. Then a messenger from Germany tells him that the Hungarians are preparing war and the emperor’s son will defend the lands. Though the Emperor is pleased with his son’s valiance he follows his lords’ council and hurries to help him. They leave for Germany. At last they come to Köln where bishop Brun is to sing his first mass as a consecrated bishop, with the emperor and all lords present, and the duke of Lorraine will be married to the emperor’s daughter. Messengers are sent throughout the lands to invite guests to the festival. Meanwhile Lohengrin has sent word to Elsam, who comes to meet him and is welcomed by the Empress. Lohengrin is very famous due to his valorous feats against the heathens and many a lady longs for his love. Emperor Heinrich’s daughter marries the duke of Lorraine. In the morning the Emperor and the Empress, Lohengrin and Elsam go to the chamber of the newly married couple. The young woman receives the morning gift (for having been a virgin she deserves to have it). The Empress and Lohengrin have donned the precious clothes the Pope had bestowed upon them, and the bride has been given the third one.

Motif References:

T 100 Marriage
T 130 Marriage customs

Lohe-686: The bishops of Menz and of Trier assist the young bishop in singing his first mass. His sister gives sacrifices in money. The lord of Agrippe had given a ring to Lohengrin when the latter left to travel over the seas, that is now given to the bishop. The lords bring presents as well. Then they have a splendid festival. Many knights are dubbed and they enjoy knightly entertainments of all sorts. After the meal there is a tournament in which Lohengrin and his brother-in-law of Lorraine excel. The Empress tells the ladies of Lohengrin’s feats in the war against the heathens. All but the lady of Kleve are very pleased on hearing this, because her husband lost his right arm when he was defeated by Lohengrin in a tournament at Antwerp. Therefore she reminds them that his descent is unknown to all of them although he deserves praise as a valiant fighter. Thereupon the duchess out of grief becomes red and white. The Empress replies that the lord’s valiance proves his noble origin beyond any doubt.

Motif References:

W 32 Bravery
R 222 Unknown knight (Three days’ tournament)
K 2129 Slanders - miscellaneous

Lohe-696: The duchess is grieved because of her children’s unknown descent. Seeing her in trouble Lohengrin one night asks her about her grief and she tells him that the words of the countess of Kleve are troubling her. Yet for two nights Lohengrin can put off her question. The third night however she asks him his descent for the sake of their children, and insists on being told his family and his name. Lohengrin gives his promise that she will learn both his name and family as soon as they have returned home. When all the guests are preparing their leave Lohengrin asks the Emperor to reward his service by granting him anything he will ask. The Emperor willingly grants his demand and Lohengrin asks him and his wife to come with him to Prabant. All his lords should join him. Next morning they all set out for Prabant. Lohengrin will tell them what this is all about as soon as they have arrived at Antwerp. The train is well received in the town and three days later Lohengrin takes his wife before the Emperor, the bishop of Lütich and duke Giselbreht.

Motif References:

C 32.2.1 Tabu: asking name of supernatural husband
C 32.2.2 Tabu: asking where supernatural husband comes from
Q 115 Reward: any boon that may be asked
M 223 Blind promise (rash boon)
F 252.5 (Bm) Fairy knight.
F 301 Fairy lover [husband].

Lohe-708: (7074) He recalls that Elsam gave him a promise before they were married: never to ask his name nor where he came from. He was to leave her if she ever asked. On hearing this the duchess swoons. Lohengrin declares that his wife has broken her promise and that he now has to tell them his family: His ancestor is Gandin, his grandfather Gamuret, who was killed at Baldach, his father is Parzival, who is king of the Grail. His mother is from Pelrapier, and his grandmother was Herzloide. King Arthur is his relative as well. Then he discloses his name, which is Lohengrin and tells them that his brother Gahardiz has inherited their father’s lands, whereas he and his parents were destined to serve the Grail. Then he relates to them how the Grail sent him to Prabant: Once his father was driven into deep distress because of a question he did not ask, and from then on all knights sent out from the Grail must not be asked, otherwise they have to leave at once. The women who are given away in marriage are not bound to this tabu. Yet Lohengrin must disclose his identity to none but his wife if she asks.

Motif References:

C 32.2.1 Tabu: asking name of supernatural husband
C 32.2.2 Tabu: asking where supernatural husband comes from
F 252.5 (Bm) Fairy knight.
F 301 Fairy lover [husband].
V 450 Religious orders
C 932 Loss of wife (husband) for breaking tabu.

Lohe-715: The Grail is kept by Arthur and his knights in India in a land enclosed by high mountains. Many beautiful ladies are living there. The Grail castle has been built at the banks of a river upon the model of Muntsalvaetsch, which is also its name but it is even more beautiful. A large din resounded throughout the castle and the mountains, and the Grail informed them by an inscription that a maiden was in need of a champion they should send there. Otherwise the din would not stop. Lohengrin’s sister read that the maiden lived in Prabant and that she was harassed by a vassal of her father, who was not her equal. Every knight of the Grail wanted to be champion but Lohengrin’s sister read that her brother was destined to go there. His father equipped him. The land and the castle are so well protected that none can enter or leave without God’s consent. Therefore a swan was sent with a boat to carry him to this land.

Motif References:

F 145 Mountains at borders of otherworld
F 163.1 Castle in otherworld
F 173 Otherworld land of happiness.
V 211.10 Letter (message) of Christ
V 450 Religious orders
F 707 Extraordinary kingdom
F 771 Extraordinary castle (house, palace)
F 966 Voices from heaven (or from the air)
D 1171.6 Magic cup.
D 1266.1 Magic writings (gramerye, runes)
D 1310 Magic object gives supernatural information.

Lohe-719: (7182) At last Lohengrin asks the Emperor and his wife to care for Elsam and his children. He also asks his brother-in-law of Lorraine to look after his wife. The English king should be told to help Elsam’s children. The bishop of Lütich is named regent. Lohengrin then takes his leave from his two little sons and gives land and people, wife and children into the Lüttich’s care. He bestows a horn and a sword upon his sons and a ring upon Elsam. The ring was a gift from his mother, the horn and sword were given to him by his father. Thereafter the swan arrives drawing the boat. There is general lamenting and the duchess urges her husband to stay with her which cannot be. Lohengrin leaves with the swan. The Emperor wails loudly, the duchess swoons and would have died had they not helped her. She keeps swooning whenever she remembers Lohengrin. The Emperor and his wife and all the people lament and Elsam never stops grieving for her husband. Then the Empress wants to meet Lohengrin’s sons and asks for their name. The bishop of Lütich has them sent for. The elder son is named Iohan, the name of his younger brother now is changed into Lohengrin. The Empress asks to be given Lohengrin for she would like to rear him as her own child. This is done. Before they leave all matters of the land are well cared for. The bishop will be highest judge and the Emperor promises to guarantee the land’s peace. The lords give an oath of peace. The Empress leaves with young Lohengrin after she and the Emperor have said goodbye to Elsam who once again swoons. After they have left she dons widow’s clothing.

Motif References:

P 110.0.1 (Bm) Faithful steward [knight] as regent
P 122 (Bm) Archbishop and bishop
P 233 Father and son
P 272 Foster mother
F 305 Offspring of fairy [dwarf] and mortal
F 305.1 Fairy relative makes gifts (to half-mortal child)
F 340 Gifts from fairies
T 600 Care (education) of children
F 1041.21 Reactions to excessive grief

Lohe-731: The Emperor rules eighteen years thereafter, then he succumbs to illness. The lords choose his son Otte to succeed him. His son Heinrich and his wife Mehtilt found monasteries and churches for their salvation, his son and successor Otto the Great, who also founds monasteries (among them Magdeburc), once again defeats the Huns, with the help of the bishop Uolrich of Augsburg. The Christians would have been defeated had not the Emperor made them retreat by the holy lance. Moreover he obtains Lamparten and drives away king Pernger and his wife, and he wins Püll and Galaber as well. He overcomes the rebellion of his son Ludolf against him and defeats the heathens. The Normans and Danes are baptized. The red Emperor Otto is his successor, who defeats the Sarazens, of whom so many are killed, that the sea turns red. At last Otto is killed by a poisoned arrow. His son who is also named Otto as a child feigns his death (by having placed a dead child in his bed) to frighten people.

Motif References:

V 331 Conversion to Christianity
K 1860 Deception by feigned death (sleep)

Lohe-749: There are many disputes about the throne of the pope, claimed by two men, Iohan and Gregorius. The false pope Iohan is supported by a man called Crescencius. Gregorius has to flee and sends word to Otto. Otto has Charlemagne removed from his tomb for although he has not been canonized there have been many wonders at his grave. One night the spirit of Charlemagne prophesies that Otto will die young without successor, but that his kin will not lose the empire. When Otto learns that the Pope has been driven away he travels to Italy. He captures Crescencius and has him hanged. The false pope Iohan is blinded and his nose cut off. The Emperor was in love with Crescencius’ beautiful wife, but at his lords’ admonition he promised to restrain himself. The woman sent him gloves and a ring as presents. When the Emperor touches the gifts which are poisoned he dies. He is buried in Aachen. The prophecy of Charlemagne has come true for he has no children.

Motif References:

P 16 End of king’s reign
P 17 Succession to the throne
T 95.0.3 Man loves sister [widow] of warrior he has slain
S 111 Murder by poisoning
P 236.1 Folly of father’s giving all property to children before his death
Q 262 Impostor punished
V 294 The Pope
E 300 Friendly return from the dead
M 301.14 (Summoned) Dead prophesies
M 341.1.2 Prophecy: early death
M 370.1 Prophecy of death fulfilled
M 391 Fulfillment of prophecy
Q 413 Punishment: hanging
Q 451.7 Blinding as punishment
Q 451.5 Nose cut off as punishment
K 1900 Impostures
K 2231 Treacherous mistress

Lohe-754: Heinrich II., duke of Bavaria, is married to the “good Kunigunde”. They both are chaste to their death. Kunigunde however is slandered and has to prove her innocence by walking on glowing iron. Heinrich’s sister Gisela marries the king of Hungary, Steffan, who thereafter is baptized with his people and forces the Polish to converse to Christianity. Heinrich founds many monasteries. Pope Benedikt has him come to Rome to be crowned emperor with his wife Kunigunde. The Pope then travels to Germany to consecrate the monastery founded by the emperor, Babenberg (Bamberg). On this journey the pope dies and is buried in Bamberg.

Motif References:

H 221.2 Ordeal by hot iron
T 315 Continence (in marriage)
V 331 Conversion to Christianity
H 412.4.1 Chastity ordeal: holding hot iron
K 2110.1 Calumniated wife

Matière de Bretagne

Lohengrin (>1285) Cramer, Th.(ed.): Lohengrin. Edition und Untersuchungen. Munich 1971.

Lohengrin (>1285)
Cramer, Th.(ed.): Lohengrin. Edition und Untersuchungen. Munich 1971.