StrDan-1: Prologue. The author, der Stricker, has translated from French a story brought to him by Master Alberich of Besançon. He wishes to demonstrate his art with words and bids his audience to listen attentively. According to the words of King Arthur the zeal for praise and worldly acclaim by means of virtuous deeds is more important than material goods. Never has there lived a lord comparable to King Arthur. For he loved generosity, honor and virtuous teachings, and he was never guilty of dishonor or disgrace. Therefore his praise and his name live on and remain untarnished. Any man who desires to live in a courtly manner should cherish his example.

Motif References:

P 12 Character of kings

StrDan-47: King Arthur is the paragon of all men. He is very truthful. He considers all of his vassals as comrades and for this reason the finest knights from all lands come to his court. Back in their own lands they are held in high renown for having been at King Arthur’s court. The king is greatly pleased to see that all the world praises him and he vows that he would each day refrain from eating until he should hear or witness an adventure. He does this in order that his knights should more actively pursue knightly deeds. All that he possesses is held in common, and many festivals are celebrated at the royal court. In his throne room there stands a table which refuses a seat to any man unworthy of becoming a comrade to the king. For whoever has been guilty of villainy never dares come near it. In such a way are King Arthur’s comrades chosen who are called the knights of the Round Table. Moreover at the court they pursue all forms of entertainment and games.

Motif References:

P 12 Character of kings
P 14 Particular practices of kings
P 19.0.1 (Li) King Arthur as leader of outstanding chivalric society (Round Table)
P 50 Noblemen (knights) [rules of chivalry]
M 151 Vow not to eat before hearing of adventure
Z 201.9.1 (Bm) Hero’s famous possessions - Arthur’s Round Table
D 1153 Magic table.
H 1221 Quest for adventure
H 1550 Tests of character

StrDan-109: At King Arthur’s court a custom is observed: Each is required to report his disgrace and conceal his fame. It is held as blameworthy to tell of another’s disgrace or to boast of one’s own valor. For each knight riding out in pursuit of adventure there is a new shield ready and he dares not return until it is totally hewn to pieces as proof of his exploits. Because his men are accustomed to ride forth from his court King Arthur’s renown keeps growing. And because of this reputation many valiant knights journey to his court. At the king’s court lives the most malevolent man who ever became a knight: He is called Keii and is also the most valiant man there. He is a boaster, who never would tell his own disgrace but boasts of his smallest exploit. One day when he is riding in pursuit of adventure across the heath, he sees a knight riding up to him.

Motif References:

W 32 Bravery
P 50 Noblemen (knights) [rules of chivalry]
W 117 Boastfulness.
W 188 Contentiousness.
H 1221 Quest for adventure
H 1561.2 Single combat to prove valor

StrDan-163: The knight is called Daniel and his land is the Blooming Valley. He has come to meet the most praiseworthy knights at King Arthur’s court. When he has come up to Keii he asks him if he would like to joust and Keii agrees at once, boasting of his great valiance. They engage in combat and very soon Daniel unhorses his adversary. The victor takes Keii’s horse and gives it back to him. Keii mounts and rides back home. At the king’s question what has happened to him he refuses to answer. The knights understand what has happened and hurry to put on armor to ride forth from the court and see the adventure. They catch sight of Daniel waiting there on the heath and begin to joust one after the other. He unhorses all of them.

Motif References:

W 117 Boastfulness.
H 1221 Quest for adventure
H 1561.2 Single combat to prove valor

StrDan-254: Finally Gawein, Iwein and Parzival come riding up to the assembled knights. They fight the stranger but cannot unhorse him. Daniel is acclaimed by the other knights since he has not been overcome even by this three knights, which also enhances their own excellence. Gawein, Iwein and Parzival, who desire to have him as a guest at court, ride forward to Daniel and, bidding him welcome, ask for his business and his name and declare that they are eager to serve him.

Motif References:

H 1561.2 Single combat to prove valor

StrDan-325: The stranger says that it is not necessary that they serve him. He has found here what he was seeking, for he often has heard of the excellence of King Arthur’s court. He is called Daniel and his land the Blooming Valley, which his father, King Mandrogan, bequeathed to him. The lords are pleased to hear this and, true faithfulness vowed, they accept Daniel into their fellowship. They return to the court and Gawein relates the news to the king, eager to enhance Daniel’s reputation and reluctant to praise himself above his comrades. Thereupon King Arthur receives Daniel with all kindness. He rejoices that Daniel wishes to remain at his court and orders that the brave Daniel is enrolled in his fellowship and welcomed.

Motif References:

P 19.0.1 (Li) King Arthur as leader of outstanding chivalric society (Round Table)
Z 201.9.1 (Bm) Hero’s famous possessions - Arthur’s Round Table
M 246 Covenant of friendship
P 311.5 Covenant of friendship
H 1221 Quest for adventure

StrDan-395: One day not long afterwards the knights of the Round Table would have wished to have a meal. Yet no adventure has reached the king’s ears and so they all have to wait till nearly mid-afternoon, when a powerful giant, great in size, comes riding into the courtyard atop a large camel. He carries no weapons except a massive pole and has neither armor nor helmet or shield. He wears a wondrous coat of silk and gold. His skin is harder than horn. The giant dismounts and addresses the king: King Matur of Cluse has sent him there, for he has heard so many a story about Arthur’s excellence, that he considers him most worthy of ceding to him his land. King Arthur must surrender himself as a vassal to him and hold his land as a fief granted by him. The giant’s lord is so powerful that it is a great honor to be chosen as his vassal, an honor he never before offered to another king. If King Arthur is willing to accept him as his lord he will be permitted to visit the land of king Matur.

Motif References:

P 12.2.1 Tyrannical king [lord]
P 14 Particular practices of kings
P 14.15.2 Court messenger
M 151 Vow not to eat before hearing of adventure
F 531.2.1 Extremely tall giant
F 531.2.7 Giant so large he cannot be carried by a horse
F 531.4.7 Giant’s clothes
F 531.4.5.2 Giant with iron bar as weapon
F 531.5.10 Giant as servant to man

StrDan-477: King Arthur refuses to hold his kingdom as a fief from another man. Should he have need of any defense a powerful army is at his command. Then he asks the giant to tell him about his lord as well as his land and people. The giant tells him that no king who ever wore a crown has lived as splendidly as does his lord. His land is well protected, surrounded by a mountain range that nobody can cross. There is a road which leads through the mountain at the point whence the giant came. This entrance is closed by a huge boulder that is lowered in front of it and only the giant can lift. Ever since he rode out through it, the road has stood open and will do so until he enters again. The land is large and verdant in all seasons. The women there are of radiant beauty and the very embodiment of inward and outward perfection.

Motif References:

F 145 Mountains at borders of otherworld
F 151.2 Mountain pass to otherworld.
F 575.2 Handsome man
F 707 Extraordinary kingdom

StrDan-550: There lives in this land a bird called the Babian. The women as anyone else who might wish one possess many of these birds. Their plumage is so wondrous that the women see their own reflection in it as if it were a mirror. Moreover they use those birds to hover above them in sunshine, for they are trained to provide them with shade from the sun. At night the people are provided with light emanating from the Babian, so that they are able to see in the room as though from a burning candle. Both night and day the Babian sings exquisitely with a very sweet voice.

Motif References:

F 161.1 Perpetual summer in otherworld.
B 172 Magic bird
B 575 Animal as constant attendant of man.
D 1163 Magic mirror
D 1645 Self-luminous objects.

StrDan-575: Wherever the king journeys, his entire palace accompanies him, which is accomplished without any great artifice or magic: There is an animal called the elephant, which is very strong. However much is loaded onto it, it will not even bend its legs. It is one of the greatest animals on earth. Day and night it stands on its legs and can only die if it is killed on purpose. In the land are wise men who know how to train two elephants to carry between them huge buildings, palaces even, of marble and ivory on large beams. Those palaces are marvelously embellished with wondrous images of birds, animals, tournament-scenes, dances and scenes of courtly life, which is explained by engraved letters. The king of Cluse has many such a palace. He loves courtly entertainment and has a festival each day.

Motif References:

F 173.3 Perpetual feasts in otherworld.
P 634 Feasts
F 789 Extraordinary buildings and furnishings - miscellaneous
B 801 Elephants in folktales
B 841 Long-lived animals.
D 1857 Magic longevity.

StrDan-640: The land is broad and wide, and the king forced the former rulers either to leave the country or to serve him as his vassals. His entire land he has divided into seven armies. Each day one of them has to ride to court and take part in tournament. One can see many a splendid knight jousting. The tournament is witnessed there by 500 maidens, who must sit nearby on a green meadow and whose presence emboldens the knights. Above each of the ladies hovers a Babian which provides her with shade. After such knightly games follow various amusements without lance or sword. The knights go off to court the ladies and there is dancing and singing and a joyful festival. Each man finds there whatever pastime he can.

Motif References:

Z 71.5 Formulistic number: seven
F 173.3 Perpetual feasts in otherworld.
P 561 Tournaments
P 634 Feasts

StrDan-691: This happens thrice in the course of the day: they ride and make merry with courtly games. In the evening the knightly company takes its leave, but on the following day another splendid company arrives and once more the day passes in the usual way. Thus they all journey to the court each week, every day a different troop. The first assembly then returns anew, bringing with it many handsome helmet-crests, and both birds and animals crafted of gold and of precious stones. Throughout the land there is a commandment that, at the risk of life and property, no maiden may be seen in the protection of her father, who is bound to send her to the court once she turns eight years old. There she may help enhance the elegant way of life at the court. The king desires to give to each of them in marriage the man who is most pleasing to her.

Motif References:

Z 71.1 Formulistic number: three
Z 71.5 Formulistic number: seven
F 173.3 Perpetual feasts in otherworld.
T 381 Imprisoned virgin to prevent knowledge of men (marriage, impregnation) usually kept in a tower.
P 561 Tournaments
P 634 Feasts

StrDan-731: The giant’s lord is a man of excellence and physical strength rare among all kings and every man who has ever ridden into his land in search of adventure lost his life there. Located there in Cluse is a grassy land, on which grows a magnificent lime tree. Beneath this tree stands an object wrought of gold, in the image of a fierce beast, which has a banner in its mouth. Through this animal there flows water, which through an artful device brings about a current of air. Any man who removes the banner imperils his life, for in that very moment the animal would raise such an overwhelming din that any man would fall down from his horse. Thereupon the king rides up in so fierce a rage that the intruder would be doomed.

Motif References:

F 855.2 Statues animated by water or wind
F 855.3 Gold (silver) statue of animal
D 1419.2 Magic object paralyses.
D 1620.2 Automatic statue of animal

StrDan-761: The same artisan who wrought this beast created the giant and his brother, who are his children, and endowed them both with such enormity. They both have impenetrable skin, so that they are invulnerable. The giants’ father is one hundred years old, yet he is so agile that no creature on earth can escape him. Though he is much smaller than his offspring and despite his age he is even stronger than the two giants and has great wisdom in many things. At last the giant says that King Arthur should stop his threats for he is so strong he could easily kill all of his army. If he would refuse to go with him to Cluse and become Matur’s vassal he will take him prisoner at once and judge him and leave his kingdom to a man of his king’s choice. He urges Arthur to tell him what he wants to do.

Motif References:

D 55.1 Person becomes magically larger.
F 531.6.1.2 Giant is transformed man.
F 558 Man covered with horn
F 681.6 Marvelous runner catches wild game on the run.
D 1381.3.2 Magic unpierceable (horn) skin protects against attack
D 1711.8 Strong man as magician.
D 1830 Magic strength
D 1840.3 Magic invulnerability of ogres.
D 1883 Eternal youth

StrDan-811: King Arthur assembles his lords to hear their counsels. The inconsiderate youths proclaim that the messenger’s insolence must be punished on the spot and the giant must be killed. Gawein tells them that it must be considered that the giant is invulnerable and that the king should pretend to be pleased by the high honor offered by Matur’s messenger and say that he gladly would come to Cluse yet must have a week’s time to proclaim the journey in his kingdom so that he could go there with a splendid train. Moreover his men by feudal laws are bound to share the king’s honor. Gawein says that it would be dishonorable to kill a messenger and bring shame to them. Besides, the giant is the only person to show them the road to Cluse. If once arrived there they were not able to kill him they should blind him. Then they could easily escape him and enter the land, make the animal roar and wait for the giant’s brother and blind him too. If both of his watchmen are blinded the famous King Matur will certainly be discouraged.

Motif References:

P 14.15.2 Court messenger
G 511 Ogre blinded.
J 625 Prevention of hostilities by agreeing to demands while in danger.
J 1113 Clever boy [youth, knight]
K 2369.7 Shammed discussing of peace while getting reinforcements.

StrDan-885: The king and the people approve of Gawein’s counsel. King Arthur then gives his reply to the messenger: He asks him to stay with them for a week for the king bound by loyalty toward them must assemble his vassals in order that whatever glory is done to him in Cluse might likewise fall to them. What good would he be as a vassal to King Matur if he would forsake his comrades? It has ever been his custom to celebrate at Whitsuntide and to have a great festival. The giant’s lord shall replace this festival which he shall forgo on his account, for he is greatly pleased by this affair. The knights all bid the giant to wait here for seven nights, then they will set out together with him. At last the giant agrees, yet he advises Arthur to consider that however great a host of knights he may assemble this shall be an easy game for his lord. This pledged, the king commands letters to be written which are dispatched at once. Thus he summons a huge army. Some of his knights however, among them Lanzelet and Erec, have ridden out in quest of adventure and cannot join him.

Motif References:

P 14.15.2 Court messenger
P 50 Noblemen (knights) [rules of chivalry]
J 625 Prevention of hostilities by agreeing to demands while in danger.
H 1221 Quest for adventure
K 2369.7 Shammed discussing of peace while getting reinforcements.

StrDan-986: As King Arthur has the giant as his guest for one week, Daniel thinks this time too long. Therefore he secretly leaves court and follows the trail of the giant for he has made up his mind to remove the banner from the animal’s mouth and attack King Matur. On the third day he catches sight of a high mountain range, the borders of Cluse. He is glad to have found the land until he comes to the entrance, where he sees an enormous giant. In this situation Daniel weighs the dilemma in his mind and finally decides to risk battle. He prepares for combat.

Motif References:

F 145 Mountains at borders of otherworld
F 150.2.1 Entrance to otherworld guarded by giant
F 151.2 Mountain pass to otherworld.
F 531.6.10.2 (Bm) Giant as porter
J 1113 Clever boy [youth, knight]
H 1221 Quest for adventure

StrDan-1115: All of this is being observed by a lady who is standing nearby. She hastens toward Daniel, greets him and falls down at his feet, which grieves the knight. Daniel dismounts and is about to help her when he perceives that she is in grief. She is very pale, and can neither see nor speak. He thinks her life is lost. Daniel ponders to himself what he should do: He is about to engage in battle with the giant and cannot know what the lady wishes. He is about to decide to fight the giant first and then ride back to hear what it is that she desires. Yet thus he would act in a dishonorable way, for the lady sought his aid. Thus he takes her head onto his lap until she feels better and sits up and speaks. She says she took note of his intention to wage his life in combat he could not win, for the giant’s skin is invulnerable.

Motif References:

F 1041.21.7 Swooning from grief
J 1113 Clever boy [youth, knight]
D 1381.3.2 Magic unpierceable (horn) skin protects against attack
D 1840.3 Magic invulnerability of ogres.

StrDan-1221: Then she tells him of her misfortune: She is the daughter of the Duke of the Dark Mountain (Von dem Trüeben Berge) and his only child, and a certain dwarf wished to possess her as his own. Her father refused him as suitor and desired to give her to someone her equal. Thereupon the dwarf violently threatened her father and at last slew him in battle. All who endeavored to avenge him have likewise met with death. Her mother witnessed the tragedy from atop the battlements and died of grief. The lady sent word throughout these lands that the man who would slay the dwarf and bring her his head would be chosen as lord over her and over her land, regardless how low he may be in birth. Many a valiant man came, however, all were slain. For the dwarf possesses an invincible sword. The name of the dwarf is Juran.

Motif References:

T 68.1 Princess offered as prize to rescuer
T 75.2.1 Rejected suitors’ revenge
H 335.4.4 Suitor task: to kill (defeat) unwelcome suitor.
F 451.8.2 Proper names for dwarfs
F 451.5.2 Malevolent dwarf
F 451.5.18 Dwarf loves mortal girl
D 801.1 Magic objects possessed by witch, sorcerer or evil dwarf
F 833.5.1 Sword cuts cloth etc, as well as steel and stone
F 1041.1.3 Death from sorrow or chagrin
D 1081 Magic sword
H 1381.8 (Bm) Quest for champion [helper]

StrDan-1291: The lady has come there seeking a man who would rather fight the dangerous battle for her than meet death in this place. Whoever will obtain victory in her land will acquire a sword with which to slay these invulnerable giants. The dwarf insists that she must become his wife and he will force her to do so. He then shall keep her as his wife for but two or three nights. Her fortress and all in it she shall forfeit and must depart from it naked. The dwarf has sworn that he will beat her with birch twigs and flog off all the skin of her body. He also plans to cut off her nose and her lips and disfigure her. When Daniel has heard this tale he considers the matter to himself and at last makes up his mind to help the lady which makes her very joyful. Yet she weeps out of fear that the knight might be slain by the dwarf like the others. They mount their horses and ride off. The lady is oppressed by grief and Daniel tries to console her.

Motif References:

S 166.5 Mutilation: chin and lips cut off.
S 172 Mutilation: nose cut off or crushed
S 186 Torturing by beating
S 400 Cruel persecutions
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper
D 1081 Magic sword
J 1113 Clever boy [youth, knight]
H 1381.8 (Bm) Quest for champion [helper]

StrDan-1424: They ride until nightfall when they arrive in the lady’s homeland where they are received most graciously. The courtiers fear greatly for the knight’s life. The lady’s dearest maidens entreat her to take Daniel as her lord and not to let him fight or leave the lodgings. But the lady is certain that the knight cannot be dissuaded from battle. Their guest lacks nothing. Early in the morning he hears mass and readies himself for the duel with the dwarf. Then he asks the Lady of the Dark Mountain to send word to the dwarf and tell him that she wishes to see him. The dwarf is summoned and Daniel goes with the lady out to the battlements. Daniel wants to determine whether he could save his life through some act of cunning.

Motif References:

J 1113 Clever boy [youth, knight]

StrDan-1513: When the dwarf walks up to the gate and inquires what his lady desires, Daniel speaks to him. He tells him that the lady and her lands would be his if he would demonstrate his bravery. The dwarf is pleased. Daniel says that he should lay down his own sword and take up the finest sword he can find there and then do battle with the very weakest man whom the lady has to offer. If he would succeed in defeating him, the lady will do all that the dwarf desires. It is his sword alone which is credited with all the slaughter the dwarf has done and now he should show whether he can kill a man without its aid. At the lady’s promise to give him her favor if he gains victory, the dwarf will gladly do combat with her most excellent hero to demonstrate that his prowess does not depend upon the sword. Even if his opponent were stronger than Samson he would challenge him. Lady Love proves that any man, no matter how strong his will and how steadfast his mind, must serve her for the sake of her reward. This lesson she demonstrated with Solomon, who was the wisest man until she destroyed both his wisdom and his senses. She has done this to many a good man and no one can avoid her power.

Motif References:

T 0 Love
J 191.1 Salomon as wise man.
K 818 Victim persuaded to disarm.
J 1113 Clever boy [youth, knight]
H 1561.2 Single combat to prove valor

StrDan-1598: Juran does likewise and surrenders himself to Love’s command. He removes his sword and carries it off a good distance and places it on the ground. Then he walks up to the gate and in front of it draws a circle for the combat. The gates are opened and Daniel approaches the dwarf. He offers Juran the choice of two swords, he takes the one he prefers and Daniel the other. Both men step into the ring. The gates of the fortress are closed and no one allowed outside except Daniel and Juran. They begin to fight. Each strives fiercely for the other’s death. The dwarf is fierce and clever and very powerful. Daniel deals him mighty blows, yet he is able to pierce neither his helmet nor his armor. Pressed hard by his opponent Juran takes flight in the direction of his sword but Daniel sees his intentions and both race on for that sword. Because of his long legs the advantage falls to Daniel and he takes possession of that sword. He draws it and tells Juran to surrender to the lady or die. Out of desire for the sword and paying no attention to the knight’s threat that he would kill him should he refuse to surrender, Juran persists in charging at Daniel. At last Daniel cuts off the dwarf’s head.

Motif References:

P 557.4 Customs concerning single combat
D 801.1 Magic objects possessed by witch, sorcerer or evil dwarf
F 824.7 (Bm) Impenetrable hauberk.
D 1101.4 Magic helmet
D 1101.2 Magic cuirass.
D 1381.10.3 Magic unpierceable helmet
D 1381.10.2 Magic unpiercable cuirass [shield]
H 1561.2 Single combat to prove valor
H 1561.6 Test of valor: fight with giant [warrior, dwarf-hero, dragon etc.]
K 2277 Treacherous dwarf.

StrDan-1734: The lady offers thanks to God. The gates are opened and the lady with her court walks up to Daniel. Praise is heaped upon Daniel as he carries forth Juran’s head. All those present place themselves at his command and they are eager to carry out his every request. Daniel however wishes only to take his leave. They attempt to dissuade him and the lady urges him to stay but Daniel is unwilling to linger. It pleases him greatly that he has acquired the dwarf’s sword and he is eager to find out whether it can penetrate the giant’s skin. He rides off, which brings great sorrow to the lady and her retinue.

Motif References:

D 1081 Magic sword

StrDan-1782: After Daniel has taken his leave from the castle he spots before him forty maidens who dismount at the sight of him. They all follow their mistress hastening toward Daniel, all the while lamenting and weeping. Daniel dismounts and when they fall at his feet he bids them rise and tell him what is troubling them. Their mistress tells him that she once upon a time was the powerful countess of the Land of the Bright Fountain (Von dem Liehten Brunnen), but that she now is forced to endure great suffering. Since Daniel has just relieved this lady she knows in truth that if she could be rescued it will have to come from Daniel. Daniel replies that this causes him much grief for he now has to carry out that which he has undertaken lest he would lose all his reputation. The lady wrings her hands and urges him to come to her aid. At last Daniel asks her what it is that she laments and declares he would help her if he could.

Motif References:

N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper

StrDan-1874: She falls at his feet and thanks him. Then she tells him that she is suffering distress from a devilish creature that is invulnerable. His head is so immense that two men could barely lift it. He wears no clothing and is covered from head to toe with hair. Furthermore, he has no belly so that his legs and arms grow directly onto his head and his chin reaches down to his knees. The monster has huge eyes and a very wide mouth. Whenever this creature wishes to commit murder, he picks up in his hand a head and whoever looks this head in the eye falls dead in an instant. As soon as he kills the men, he also turns to the women and children. The demon leads a hideous army, all of whose members are in his image and who have come from the sea. These creatures suck blood from the bodies of their victims. After retaining it in their mouths for but a short time, they spit it back out again. This is how they all live, they have no other nourishment. In this same fashion the creature has laid waste to the countess’s land.

Motif References:

G 11.16 Army of cannibal monsters
G 308 Sea-monster
G 312 Cannibal ogre
G 346 Devastating monster.
G 366.1 Ogres without belly.
D 581 Petrification [death] by glance
B 877.1 Giant sea-monster
D 1041 Blood as magic drink
D 2061.2.1 Death-giving glance.

StrDan-1928: The lady’s six children have perished at the monster’s hand. The day before she still possessed her castle and a large retinue, along with her husband. Then the monster walked in upon them and slaughtered all who were present. She herself survived by sneaking out and only she and her remaining ladies are still alive. Her husband took flight into a tower where he has barricaded himself. If she should lose him then she will return there in order to behold the head so that she too dies. Daniel promises his help. They ride forth along the road until they are close enough to see the castle. The knight tells them to await him there and asks them for a mirror. The ladies bring them all of their mirrors and he chooses the one he wishes. Daniel sets out and hastens toward the fortress where the monsters have barricaded themselves inside.

Motif References:

T 210.1 Faithful wife
R 210 Escapes
G 346 Devastating monster.
K 515 Escape by hiding.
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper

StrDan-2020: Daniel dismounts at the gate of the fortress, raps with the knocker and demands that he be let in. The bellyless devil angrily asks who is out there, and the knight replies: “It is I.” Flushing with rage the monster says he is precipitating his death if he fails to tell him his business, as well as his name and lineage. Daniel mockingly replies that he is called by the name which the priest gave him in baptism, his father was his mother’s husband, and he is their son. The demon says that it wants to avenge such reckless talk on the spot and makes his way toward the gate. Daniel as a man of wisdom ties his horse to a lime tree standing in a meadow a short distance from the fortress. Then he takes out the mirror and turns his back to the fortress gate. When the devil emerges carrying the deadly head in his hand, he sees himself in the mirror making his way toward him. Daniel takes the dwarf’s sword, brandishes it about behind his back and gives the creature a blow that cleaves his legs in two.

Motif References:

F 628 Strong man as mighty slayer
J 1113 Clever boy [youth, knight]
J 1252 Quibbling answers.

StrDan-2110: The demon sinks to the ground, crying out to his men that he has received a lethal blow and they should take possession of the head. Daniel cuts off his hand in which the creature holds the head, which he then quickly snatches up. Daniel is mindful to look at it only from behind. Then he holds forth that head until the creature catches sight of it, whereupon he falls dead to the ground. Meanwhile all the bellyless creatures hurry out of the fortress holding their eyes shut to escape the fatal glance. They run about blindly in search of the head, while Daniel dares to keep his eyes open. As soon as the first one of them finds their master’s body with the hand cut off he reports this to his comrades. They explore the grass around them and when they discover nothing, they all agree to open their eyes. Daniel is standing there before them and they all behold the head. At that all of them fall into the grass dead.

Motif References:

G 512 Ogre killed
D 581 Petrification [death] by glance
F 628 Strong man as mighty slayer
F 1041.1 Extraordinary death
J 1113 Clever boy [youth, knight]
D 2061.2.1 Death-giving glance.

StrDan-2165: Daniel considers that the head could be very useful against those giants in Cluse and in Arthur’s contest with Matur. Yet on the other hand if he were to bring about mass death in Cluse, he would fall into disgrace and people would think him a coward. It seems unavoidable to him that he would eventually meet death from it from having beheld it face to face. Therefore he decides not to keep the head. He casts it into the sea. Then he makes haste toward the fortress. At the tower he shouts up to the lord of the castle and tells him that his suffering has ended for the devils have perished through their own weapon. Thereupon the count unbolts the door and welcomes the knight. At his question Daniel relates to him what has happened and how he has slain the creature and all his comrades. When the count sees the bodies lying there as proof of Daniel’s story he asks where the lethal head is and the knight tells him that he has hidden it well.

Motif References:

D 581 Petrification [death] by glance
D 866 Magic object destroyed.
J 1113 Clever boy [youth, knight]
D 2061.2.1 Death-giving glance.

StrDan-2253: The count thanks Daniel and places at his disposal both himself and all that is his. Both men ride out across the fields to where they find the ladies. They are overcome with joy. The count tells his wife that Daniel has rescued them by killing the demons and that the head has been cast into the sea. The lady relates to her husband how Daniel helped the lady of the Dark Mountain. The count invites Daniel to stay with them at their court and decide upon whatever reward he may desire. But Daniel refuses any reward and asks his leave. The count offers to be his knight and vassal and to help him in his journey. The countess adds that she would gladly come to his aid too. Both men take their leave. The countess and her ladies ride back to their castle.

Motif References:

Q 53 Reward for rescue
L 225 Hero refuses reward
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper

StrDan-2361: Daniel and the Count of the Bright Fountain ride onward and, after noontime, come upon a forest. They follow hoof prints until night falls. Unable to see in the darkness they lose their road, that would have taken them to a resting place well known to the count, and pursue another path all through the night. In the dawn Daniel spots the mountain at the foot of which he has previously seen the giant. In a short time they come upon a field in which there is a tent pitched on the grass at the foot of the mountain. It is a most exquisite meadow: From a green lime tree beautiful birdsong is to be heard, and beneath the tree a lovely spring issues forth. A trough, crafted of marble and most splendidly embellished, stands beneath the spring, brimming with water. Daniel dismounts and walks into the tent. He finds no one, but a table with all sorts of food and drink. The tent is marvelously embellished with pictures and inscriptions. Gladly he would have remained there to eat, yet he fears to be diverted from his journey and that King Arthur could lose his life in fighting the giants without the aid of Daniel’s magic sword.

Motif References:

F 716 Extraordinary fountain
N 770 Experiences leading to adventures
F 775 Extraordinary tent

StrDan-2444: At this moment the count spies a knight riding across the field and alarms Daniel. The stranger gallops up before them. He has with him a prisoner, who lies thrown across the horse in front of him. Daniel offers him a greeting, but the stranger merely looks ahead and rides on. Both men are vexed at this behavior and the count wants to find out about it. With drawn sword he chases the stranger on a narrow road which leads into the mountain. Daniel rides after the count as fast as he can. The stranger rides on to the gate, which consists of a massive boulder, forbidding entrance to the mountain. As soon as the count has ridden in through after him, the knight lets the rock drop down. Thus Daniel is cut off outside the mountain. As the rock shoots downward into place, a burst of water gushes forth from the rock that floods the surroundings. For a lake has been dug into that mountain, and whenever the boulder is raised, the water rushes in to fill the lake. Whenever the boulder is lifted, the water is cut off and as soon as it is lowered, it blocks the road and the water pours forth. In this manner the passage can be closed off.

Motif References:

R 10.6 (Bm) Knight abducted
R 51.2 Prisoners confined in chains
F 91.1 Slamming door on exit from [after entrance in] mountain otherworld
F 145 Mountains at borders of otherworld
F 151.2 Mountain pass to otherworld.
R 260 Pursuits
F 776 Extraordinary gate
F 934 Extraordinary occurrences connected with lakes
H 1228 Quest undertaken by hero for vengeance.
D 1380.0.1 Magic object protects a city [land]

StrDan-2517: The flood waters rushing over him alarm Daniel and he fears for his life. Unable to traverse the raging water he nevertheless manages to remain mounted while his horse swims over to the meadow. He rests beneath the lime tree and enters the tent in order to eat there. Daniel finds an abundance of food there, yet he is bereft of joy on account of the loss of his comrade. After eating and drinking he sits considering his misfortune. He decides to stay to get to see what is inside this mountain and to either free the count or avenge his death. Daniel keeps watch all day long, until at nightfall four young men approach the tent, carrying with them exquisite food and wine. Daniel quickly goes to his horse and arms himself. As soon as they come near he offers them his greeting, which they return. Then they enter the tent, remove all of the food from the table and replace it with what they have brought with them.

Motif References:

D 1380.0.1 Magic object protects a city [land]
D 2091.7.1 River magically caused to rise against enemy

StrDan-2631: Daniel asks them what is their business and they tell him that they bring food to this place, for whomever seeks it. They have been sent by the lord of the land and will return with different food next morning, but cannot tell if their lord might come there himself. Daniel asks them where he could meet him, since he is a most courtly man. They know nothing about this matter and tell him that it has been a year since their lord last spoke to them and he would have murdered any one of them had he seen them. He is so disturbed that every man he sees must die, but they ignore what is troubling him, for he was ever a courtly man. If Daniel would insist on meeting him he would have to wait on this very place. Then they depart. Meanwhile it has become dark and Daniel is deeply distressed: he is cut off from his comrade, he has no way of knowing the latter’s fate, he is unable to investigate this matter and he does not know how to prevent Arthur’s death at Cluse. He ponders his alternatives and then decides to remain. He lingers there for nearly a week’s time in the hope of rescuing or avenging the count. However, by the time King Arthur is to come to Cluse with his army no one has yet emerged from the mountain.

Motif References:

W 12.2 Man looks for strangers so as to bestow hospitality on them.
P 320 Hospitality

StrDan-2702: Then Daniel thinks to himself that he must set out for Cluse to aid his king by means of the sword he won at the Dark Mountain. Once the battle is over he will return to this place to rescue the count. He mounts his horse and hurries off to the mountain which is not far away. The giant is seated there and as he sees Daniel drawing near he asks where he is going. Daniel replies that he is headed for the land at the other end of the passageway, whereupon the giant threatens to kill him. He leaps to his feet and Daniel stands scarcely as high as his knees. The giant who never before has been wounded by any weapon is quite unmindful and rages with anger. As he swings his fists against Daniel the latter holds forth his sword and the giant thrusts at the weapon and his hand and part of his arm are cut off. Daniel mocks him. The giant seizes a massive rock with the intention of hurling it at Daniel, when the knight cuts off his leg. Nonetheless the giant heaves the rock at the knight’s shield before he falls to the ground, yet from a sitting position prepares to defend himself. Daniel cuts off his other arm and the giant kicks Daniel’s horse so that it rolls over. At last Daniel cleaves off the giant’s head.

Motif References:

F 150.2.1 Entrance to otherworld guarded by giant
F 531.6.10.2 (Bm) Giant as porter
F 531.6.12.6 Giant slain by man
F 558 Man covered with horn
F 628.2.3 Strong man kills giant
D 1081 Magic sword
D 1381.3.2 Magic unpierceable (horn) skin protects against attack
H 1561.6 Test of valor: fight with giant [warrior, dwarf-hero, dragon etc.]
D 1840.3 Magic invulnerability of ogres.

StrDan-2845: King Arthur arrives with a large company of knights well prepared for battle. Three of his comrades, Gawein, Parzival and Iwein, have ridden on ahead and witness Daniel’s final blow to the giant. Daniel bids them dismount and put their swords to the test. They hack away at the corpse, but fail to pierce its skin in the least. Then Daniel holds forth his sword and offers it to whichever of them wishes it, but they bid him to bear it himself. All four gallop off through the mountain. Once they have spotted the lime tree and the golden beast they withdraw the banner from its mouth. At once it raises such a cry that the roar is still thundering through the air when King Arthur enters the land through the mountain. He hastens toward the lime tree with his army. The giant who has conducted them to Cluse waits at the foot of the mountain until they have all entered in order to close the passage behind them. When he discovers his brother dead he makes the sign of the cross and raises a loud lament for him. Eager to avenge his death the giant lowers the rock behind him and gallops after the army.

Motif References:

F 531.5.8 Giants and Christians
F 556 Remarkable voice
F 558 Man covered with horn
F 688.3 Voice heard over whole land
D 1381.3.2 Magic unpierceable (horn) skin protects against attack
D 1620.2 Automatic statue of animal

StrDan-2939: As King Arthur and his men assemble around the wailing beast the din makes them fall from their horses. Daniel soon regains his senses and quickly quiets the roar by replacing the banner in the beast’s mouth. Save for this, none of them would have come away alive, for their heads would have burst at the din. The army prepares for battle and many a knight begins to request the first joust. The king takes the first joust, against king Matur, upon himself. At that moment King Matur approaches. His attire is ornately embellished and he holds before him his highly ornamented shield, which displays a Babian. He charges at King Arthur who rushes forward against him. King Arthur displays a crowned eagle on his shield. From the collision both of them fall off backwards and continue fighting fiercely with their swords. Each man is valiant and shows skill and strength. Once their shields are demolished, they no longer spare helmet or armor. At last King Arthur forces such a blow through Matur’s helmet that it splits the head and the king falls dead to the ground.

Motif References:

P 91 (Li) Heraldic figures and symbols - coat-of-arms
Q 331 Pride punished
L 410 Proud ruler (deity) humbled.
F 556 Remarkable voice
F 688.3 Voice heard over whole land
F 855.3 Gold (silver) statue of animal
D 1419.2 Magic object paralyses.
H 1561.2 Single combat to prove valor
D 1620.2 Automatic statue of animal

StrDan-3072: At this moment a royal company gallops up, two thousand men who are to engage in tournament on this day. When they see their king lying there dead they dash forward toward King Arthur. The knights of the Round Table vault forward to meet them. The battle is fought with the fiercest fury. All those present fear that the Day of Judgment with heavenly conflagration has come. Only when they see that the fire burns upwards from the heat of fighting is this fear allayed. Daniel kills many a splendid knight with the sword which has once belonged to the dwarf. Once the battle has begun in full earnest they see the giant trotting in their direction. He dismounts and attacks King Arthur’s army. A host of young heroes run toward him armed with bows and arrows and they rob him of his eyesight. Angrily he wields his staff with such force that many men are killed.

Motif References:

G 511 Ogre blinded.
F 531.6.9 Giants as warriors (in army)
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
F 628 Strong man as mighty slayer
D 1081 Magic sword
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]

StrDan-3177: The knights remain unable to kill the giant and once his weapon is hacked to pieces he picks up all whom he finds before him and snaps them in two. And any man whom he spares this treatment he picks up by the leg and uses him as a club against the others. When the knights see that all their attempts to harm the giant are futile they take to flight from him. Angrily he chases after them. After the others have been forced to flee, Keii rides up, who has not witnessed the fate of his comrades. As usual he cannot silence his evil tongue – he relishes nothing more than belittling an upright man – and derides the knights of the Round Table. Praising his own boldness he vaults forth and breaks his lance against the chest of the giant who thereupon grasps Keii by the leg and swings him against the knights until he slips out of his hand. Fortunately Keii avoids death from his fall, for he drops onto a branch at the top of the lime tree and tumbles from branch to branch till he lies on the ground. The knights lament that Keii has come away alive. Keii lies in bed for twelve weeks before recovering from his fall.

Motif References:

W 117 Boastfulness.
Q 330 Overweening punished
L 400 Pride brought low
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
F 628.2.7 Strong man uses man as weapon.
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]
D 1840.3 Magic invulnerability of ogres.

StrDan-3323: The giant avenges the loss of his eyes on Arthur’s army, he tramples and crushes the horses and the riders. He is so very heavy that if he lies upon a man for even as long as a moment he would snap his back in two. Thus the giant scatters all of King Arthur’s army save for Daniel who is fighting on the other side of the battlefield amongst King Matur’s men. He has no choice but to remain in their midst but he does them great harm. The sword rescues him from this dire strait for he is fighting all of King Matur’s army. Once King Arthur’s army saw that the giant would crush to death as many of them as he can reach they retreat in the direction of the enemy, with whom they intermingle so as to escape the giant. As soon a he picks one of them up each such victim would cry out that he is here with the giant’s army, whereupon the giant would permit him to live. For the blinded giant fails to see the truth of the matter and believes what he is told.

Motif References:

P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
K 579.3.1 Escape from pursuers by pretending to be one of them.
F 628 Strong man as mighty slayer
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]

StrDan-3406: King Arthur’s forces then launch into the enemy and are met with counter-attack. Both sides fight fiercely and only then the battle begins in earnest. Many an otherwise prudent man is seen caught up in the rage of battle. The giant hears all of them saying they are on his side whereupon he releases them at once. King Arthur’s comrades execute marvelous feats with their swords. The tribulations on both sides are enormous and many men lose their lives. Then King Arthur and his knights begin to press forward and avenge the harm that has befallen them there. With his three finest knights, his nephew Gawein, Iwein and Parzival, they kill many men. King Arthur then spies Daniel far across the battlefield. He has slain every man within a broad radius and stands upon a heap of dead men as high as a moat is deep. Upon seeing Daniel’s distress King Arthur is gripped with rage and gallops off toward him. The king breaks through the throng in Daniel’s direction who makes his way towards him. Neither armor nor helmet can offer protection against Daniel’s sword as he forces his way through the knights.

Motif References:

P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
F 628 Strong man as mighty slayer
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]
F 1084.1.1 (Tu) Heaps of corpses after furious battle

StrDan-3694: Daniel rides on through the ranks of his opponents, suffering no harm himself but dealing out injury to many of them. Finally he reaches King Arthur. The king and his companions bid him welcome and are happy to see him unharmed. Then the king laments to Daniel about the great harm done to them by the giant: They are too weak for this giant and only the hero who slew his comrade at the base of the mountain would be able to kill him. King Arthur would take home to his court and bestow gifts and fiefs upon anyone who could find that man for them. Gawein tells him that it was Daniel who slew the giant. All three knights say they witnessed how Daniel killed the giant, for after setting out on his own, he acquired a sword which is able to cut through the giant. The king is overjoyed and they return once more to the raging throng. Daniel spies the giant and makes his way through the throng up to him, leaving many victims. Daniel’s sword is so remarkable that a delicate shirt of flax is just as good a shield against it as are helmet and armor.

Motif References:

F 531.6.12.6 Giant slain by man
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
F 628 Strong man as mighty slayer
F 628.2.3 Strong man kills giant
D 1081 Magic sword
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]
D 1840.3 Magic invulnerability of ogres.

StrDan-3814: As soon as he has made his way up to the giant Daniel chops off both of the giant’s legs so that he drops like a rock. To make an end to his groaning and roaring Daniel cuts off the giant’s head. The king and his three knights witness the giant’s fall and his death. The king offers Daniel his gratitude. Together they return to the battlefield where they kill many a man. The enemy has become so weak that they all surrender to King Arthur to come away alive. In the evening the battle comes to an end. The king enters into council. Daniel advises them to remain at that spot for if they can hold their ground there they shall have conquered the entire land. The giant spoke of seven regiments in this land, therefore Daniel is convinced that an army as vast as the one they just have overcome shall come riding up next morning. By summoning them with the beast they shall bring them there. In the meantime they ought to rest. If they were to ride on into the land the remaining armies would join forces and attack them.

Motif References:

R 75 Surrendering
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
P 556 Challenge to battle
P 557.0.1 (Li) Council of war
F 628 Strong man as mighty slayer
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]
J 1113 Clever boy [youth, knight]

StrDan-3893: All of them approve of Daniel’s advice and many a splendid tent is pitched upon the field. They have brought with them marvelous stores of food and wine. Daniel is much praised, but his own joy is constrained for he wants to find the count. He remains there with Arthur’s army until around midnight. Then he makes up his mind to return to the mountain to see whether the tunnel is open so that he could search for his comrade. Should it be closed off he would return to King Arthur’s camp and continue to return to that mountain until he would find it open. Daniel secretly sets out, he desires to return to the camp without anyone’s knowledge of his trip. He soon comes to the spot where the giant has blocked the pathway with an immense rock, which makes the knight very angry. As he fails to lift the rock he draws his sword. He has heard the Maiden of the Dark Mountain proclaim that that sword would penetrate any substance. Daniel hacks the rock into splinters. When he sees that this causes no harm to his sword he cuts an opening that he can lead his horse on through.

Motif References:

F 833.5.1 Sword cuts cloth etc, as well as steel and stone
D 1081 Magic sword
H 1385 Quest for lost person.

StrDan-4001: Daniel sets out in haste to resume his journey and just before daybreak he arrives at the field near the magnificent tent. He discerns that the torrent is obstructed and spots the man who has isolated him from his comrade. They charge at each other and fight furiously. Daniel’s opponent is very strong and a skillful fighter. Beneath his armor he is wearing an unpierceable skin which has been flayed from the body of a merwoman. This skin protects him from injury for it was steeped in the blood of a dragon. Daniel perceives that, even with his fine sword, he can still not defeat this knight. They storm against each other and Daniel cuts the knight’s armor and helmet to pieces. Their horses lying dead, they are compelled to fight on foot. At last Daniel deals a sword-blow to the stranger’s head that causes his opponent to fall at Daniel’s feet. Daniel captures him and asks him what has been the count’s fate. The man remains silent. Daniel permits him to live, but he will find out what he has done to his comrade and that very same fate shall be his as well.

Motif References:

B 11.2.13 Blood of dragon
B 81.9.5 Skin of mermaid.
D 1016 Magic blood of animal
D 1025.2 Magic fish-skin [Mermaid’s magic skin].
D 1052 Magic garment (robe, tunic)
D 1344.9 Magic garment renders invulnerable.
D 1381.3.3 A protective garment which spears could not penetrate
H 1385 Quest for lost person.
H 1561.2 Single combat to prove valor
D 1840 Magic invulnerability
D 1846 Attainment of invulnerability.

StrDan-4109: Daniel follows the path on to the mountain. He lowers the boulder, thus causing the torrent of water to rush forth, so that the stranger will not be able to follow him. Daniel proceeds on his way until he reaches the end of that mountain tunnel. Before the opening there hangs a finely woven net, which is artfully devised so as to be invisible both day and night. Whoever attempts to pass through this gate without permission would fall to the ground and become inextricably ensnared in the net. The victim would lie there trapped forever. Daniel steps straight into the net and lies there entangled completely in no time and is so fully constrained that he can only stir his eyes and his tongue, but nothing more. A maiden who has erected that net following the knight’s departure spots Daniel in his distress and runs back. She laments his misfortune and asks him what he is seeking there. He asks her what has befallen him and she tells him that he is trapped in a net that no one can see.

Motif References:

F 145 Mountains at borders of otherworld
F 151.2 Mountain pass to otherworld.
K 700 Capture by deception
D 1196 Magic net
D 1380.0.1 Magic object protects a city [land]
D 1411 Magic object binds person (animal)
D 1982 Certain objects invisible
D 2091.7.1 River magically caused to rise against enemy

StrDan-4189: Daniel begs her to help him out of the net in return for his pledge that he shall be her prisoner and will do what she commands. She must grant him but one request that if he must suffer death he should rather be allowed to avenge any harm done to her so that he may not die there helplessly. The maiden agrees and accepts his pledge. She extracts him from the net and leads him into a nearby cave which is quite comfortable. The maiden bids him to be seated at a table which stands ready with an ample supply of food. Daniel however refrains from eating, for he wishes to discover whether the count is still alive. The maiden tells him her story: Her father was lord over this land and he was a very courtly and generous man. He had that tent erected on the field and he is the liege lord of those knights who tend the table there. All this was arranged in order that travelers should find there food ready. The food that stands there during the day is removed at nightfall and other dishes are then carried in which remain there until daybreak when once again different food is delivered.

Motif References:

W 11 Generosity
W 12.2 Man looks for strangers so as to bestow hospitality on them.
R 75 Surrendering
M 100 Vows and oaths
P 320 Hospitality

StrDan-4277: Because her father enjoyed the reputation of a courtly man, one day a mermaid journeyed to this land. In her company was a most wondrous army arriving both on horseback and on foot, for she was queen in the ocean over all the sea-creatures who are in her service. After she has remained there for four days to put to the test the lord’s courtly renown she swears that no more perfect man can be found save for King Arthur himself. She then departed, bestowing upon the maiden’s father a skin which protects against wounds from all sorts of weapons. Moreover she gave him this net. No beast could extricate itself from it and no sword could cut through the net. Along with this the mermaid also presented him a salve: any man who applies but a small portion of it to his eyes can see just as clearly at night as during the day. Even the net is then rendered visible. And that salve would make any man’s eyesight so very sharp that he could easily split a small hair lengthwise into nine strands.

Motif References:

Z 71.1 Formulistic number: three
B 81 Mermaid
K 700 Capture by deception
D 813.1 Magic object received from river nymph [mermaid]
D 1052 Magic garment (robe, tunic)
D 1196 Magic net
D 1244 Magic salve (ointment)
D 1323.5 Magic salve gives clairvoyance.
D 1344.9 Magic garment renders invulnerable.
D 1381.3.3 A protective garment which spears could not penetrate
D 1411 Magic object binds person (animal)
D 1719.7 Magic power of mermaid
D 1821.4 Magic sight by putting ointment into eye.
D 1825.3 Magic power to see invisible creatures
D 1840 Magic invulnerability
D 1982 Certain objects invisible

StrDan-4329: But a year ago the devil dispatched his messenger to them. The land borders on the sea in one direction and on the other side the mountain stands along the border. Therefore the land, which is named the Green Meadow, was secure. During the past year all men of the land lost their lives, only the women are now left alive. At that time the maiden’s father was holding a festival when a man came up, bald-headed and red. All were then magically compelled to obey this man’s commands. He ordered them to bring to him all of the inhabitants of the land, which they did without delay. Once the creature saw them all assembled there he told them that he intended to remain there for a year’s time. For he was afflicted with an illness that required his bathing once a week for an entire year, after that he would be cured. All of the men of this land were to come before him each day and right there on the spot he slew a hundred men and as many more as he needed to fill a vat with blood. In this vat he was then to bathe himself.

Motif References:

Z 141 Symbolic color: red
G 308 Sea-monster
G 346 Devastating monster.
F 527.1 Red man.
F 707 Extraordinary kingdom
N 770.0.1 Feast as occasion for the beginning of adventures or the arrival of questers
F 872.3 Bath of blood
D 1379.1.1 Magic object controls person’s will.
D 1500.1.7.3 Magic healing blood

StrDan-4426: No one could do to him any harm for all who heard his voice were rendered feeble-minded and were unable to think or act so as to impair the ogre. Moreover whomever he commands to stand still is incapable of moving from that very spot. They are forced to endure any treatment he would bring upon them. And until now there are none left alive save those few men whom he intends to slaughter that day. When the ogre came there the very first time the maiden happened to be ill, but she was brought before him as he had commanded. Her illness had deadened her hearing so that she never heard his words. When she was later recovered from her sickness and discerned that all who had heard his voice had lost their senses, she stole off alone to this cave, where she has remained ever since. The ogre forced her father to roam about day and night bringing back for the intruder’s bath the blood of all whom he defeats in battle. It is for this reason that the net stands erected: whomever her father traps in it suffers the same fate.

Motif References:

G 308 Sea-monster
G 346 Devastating monster.
K 515 Escape by hiding.
F 556 Remarkable voice
N 660 Accidental escapes.
F 688 Man with marvelous voice
K 700 Capture by deception
F 872.3 Bath of blood
D 1003 Magic blood - human
D 1196 Magic net
D 1275 Magic song
D 1379.1.1 Magic object controls person’s will.
D 1410 Magic object renders person helpless
D 1411 Magic object binds person (animal)
D 1500.1.7.3 Magic healing blood

StrDan-4473: A week ago her father set out in the morning and defeated a knight. Just as he was about to return he spotted two men on horseback who had found the tent and wanted to strip him of his prisoner. He barely escaped through the mountain. Then he waited until one of them had passed by the boulder. At that point he lowered it and blocked the second knight’s path. Her father would have been unable to defend himself against them both, for one of them had inflicted great distress on him by attacking him near the boulder. They struggled fiercely the long day up to the evening, and at last her father took flight into the tunnel. The stranger pursued him and was entrapped by the net. Then her father brought him before the diseased ogre, whose voice then rendered him senseless and tame.

Motif References:

F 556 Remarkable voice
F 688 Man with marvelous voice
K 700 Capture by deception
D 1196 Magic net
D 1275 Magic song
D 1379.1.1 Magic object controls person’s will.
D 1410 Magic object renders person helpless
D 1411 Magic object binds person (animal)

StrDan-4519: Daniel asks the lady if this knight is still alive and she replies that he lives for he was captured one day after the ogre had already bathed. But on this very day his blood must be mixed in the bath. Four of her brothers are still living and her father has ridden out in search of them. When he returns the ogre will butcher them all. Then she offers Daniel a choice: either slay the ogre or endure the same fate as his victims or cut off her head so that her suffering comes to an end. As soon as he has accomplished what he has chosen she will set him free. Daniel declares that he will avenge her on the bald ogre. If he fails to do so, then his blood should be added to the bath, for never would he kill her. Then he inquires how he could draw near to the ogre. He will obstruct his ears with a plug of wax so that the ogre will fail to render him senseless. His excellent sword will enable him to hack him to pieces.

Motif References:

J 672.1 Ears stopped with wax to avoid enchanting song. Odysseus and the sirens.
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper
F 872.3 Bath of blood
J 1113 Clever boy [youth, knight]
K 2369 Military strategy - miscellaneous

StrDan-4584: The lady tells him that this will not work, for as soon as the ogre catches sight of him he will have to halt or the ogre will walk up to him. Daniel asks her what he could do and she says that if he approaches with his hearing obstructed he will not be able to answer the ogre’s questions. And then he will kill him: The ogre will turn him into a stone or an animal or whatever else he pleases. His power which he has from the devils is very great. The lady has verified all this, for some weeks ago she captured another man who was willing to avenge her by likewise stopping up his ears. Once the creature perceived that this knight was deaf to his words, he cast a spell upon him. Then he commanded that knight to fall to the ground, and made him both deaf and dumb, as well as blind and disfigured. Daniel once again asks her where he might find the ogre and where the men whom the latter intends to slaughter that day are. She answers that the is not far from here and that the victims are by the house located in the orchard. The bath has been delayed to wait for her father who might have acquired another victim.

Motif References:

D 52.1 Transformation: man becomes hideous.
D 100 Transformation: man to animal.
D 231 Transformation: man to stone.
D 522 Transformation through magic word (charm)
D 1273 Magic formula (charm)
D 1331.2 Magic object blinds.
D 1332.1 Magic object deafens.
D 1711 Magician
D 1872 Man made hideous.
D 2020 Magic dumbness.
D 2062.2 Blinding by magic.

StrDan-4663: Daniel can think of no means of saving the count and his own life and reputation. He declares that he will go and permit himself to be slain along with the others. Thus he will fulfill her commandment. Thereupon the lady urgently beseeches Daniel to put an end to her life so that she might not experience the death of her entire family. As Daniel refuses to kill her, she says that she will shear off her hair and don men’s clothing so that the ogre will mistake her for a man. She will accompany Daniel there and die with her father and brothers. Daniel cannot make her abstain from this. He promises her to do all that he can if she will renounce her intention. She should remain hidden and see how they will fare. The lady promises to do so and shows Daniel the way to the orchard which he enters. Quickly he finds the knights and locates his comrade. Neither of them speaks nor bows as he approaches and Daniel falls silent and says nothing. They are robbed of their senses. Daniel begins to imitate them in their gestures.

Motif References:

K 579.3.1 Escape from pursuers by pretending to be one of them.
J 1113 Clever boy [youth, knight]
K 2357 Disguise to enter enemy’s camp (castle)

StrDan-4770: The ogre wishes to delay no longer and makes preparations for his bath. He comes up and orders all of them over to a vat. They all hasten to do his bidding. Daniel is cunningly hidden in their midst, carrying his bare sword underneath his cloak. When they are standing at the vat the ogre grabs the nearest man by his hair and tears off his garment till he is completely naked. Then he stabs at him as at a swine and raises him over the vat, digging with his knife at the man’s heart. Meanwhile Daniel slips up behind him and chops off his head. All of those who are standing around him then regain their senses and wonder what has happened to them. They do not remember what has been occurring before their very eyes for that entire year. Daniel relates to them what has happened (trance, blood-bath). They say they watched all this happen but never could think once of escaping from him or defending themselves.

Motif References:

G 512 Ogre killed
D 763 Disenchantment by destroying enchanter.
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper
F 872.3 Bath of blood
J 1113 Clever boy [youth, knight]
D 1273 Magic formula (charm)
D 1711 Magician

StrDan-4825: Meanwhile the Count of the Bright Fountain has also come to his senses and gratefully praises Daniel. He will gladly serve him in return. Daniel replies that soon he can easily requite him for his rescue. The knights joyfully proclaim that they all will set out together with their rescuer. The maiden thanks him and tells her mother what has happened. The mother welcomes Daniel and asks him what became of her husband. Daniel only tells her that he left him blocked outside the passageway into the mountain. He is glad that he has not slain the knight. Both knights and ladies proceed to the field and find the lord of the land in the tent healthy in body and mind. They present Daniel to him as their rescuer. The lord bows to him and asks how he could repay him for his life. Only his derangement made him try to kill Daniel, who defeated him but permitted him to live and helped him to survive the ogre.

Motif References:

Q 53 Reward for rescue
N 839 (Bm) Noble [vassal, knight] as helper

StrDan-4929: Daniel is pleased by his words and says he has great need for his aid. The lord and his men begin to take their leave to set out with Daniel. As they ride up to the mountain the giant whom Daniel has slain still lies there hacked to pieces. His companions marvel greatly at this, Daniel however keeps silent. Then they ride on into the mountain and come to the rock. They marvel at the opening cut through it and Daniel tells them that the man who did this does whatever he commands him and will aid them in their midst. It is time for the next army of King Matur to arrive. As Daniel and his companions are approaching through the mountain they hear the beast wailing with such a deafening din that those who are near the beast soon place the banner back in its mouth.

Motif References:

Q 53 Reward for rescue
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
P 556 Challenge to battle
F 556 Remarkable voice
F 688.3 Voice heard over whole land
D 1419.2 Magic object paralyses.
D 1620.2 Automatic statue of animal

StrDan-5014: When Daniel comes riding up King Arthur is amazed for no one knew of his expedition and bids him welcome. At that moment they catch sight of two thousand knights galloping toward them. Many a bold hero mounts his horse without the aid of his stirrup and they take off in a haste. A furious battle starts. King Arthur excels in fighting and bursts through in front and opens up a furrow wide enough for all his men to follow him. He slashes down everything that is in his path until he has carved out a wide field all around him. Gawein, Iwein, and Parzival rage among the enemy. At the side of Daniel rides the Lord of the Green Meadow, who is grateful for his rescue by Daniel and battles fiercely. All four of his sons fight with fury as do the rest of Daniel’s companions, among them the Count of the Bright Fountain, who is likewise glad to help his rescuer.

Motif References:

Q 53 Reward for rescue
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
F 628 Strong man as mighty slayer
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]

StrDan-5161: Though there are many men on the battlefield there is but one referee who watches over them all: he is death himself. Each man on the battlefield strives after fame and they rage on that field. King Arthur’s knights all demonstrate their courage. It is a battle to exceed all battles. After the battle has raged on for a long time, Daniel, King Arthur and the knights from his court converge in the midst of the battlefield. They come together and ride in formation through the opposing army with a great clamor killing many enemies. The army of Cluse is forced to surrender themselves into King Arthur’s hands, whereupon the battle comes to an end. King Arthur’s men then make preparations to rest for the night, for it is their plan to remain there for seven nights’ time. Thus they camouflage their encampment as they plan to fight five more times with the rest of the armies of Cluse. Only then would they march on into the land.

Motif References:

R 75 Surrendering
P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
F 1084 Furious battle [fight]

StrDan-5285: They are in high spirits at their success. After resting a bit they gather about King Arthur and they all praise Daniel for having slain the giants. The king bids Daniel to tell them why he has ridden off during the night and also asks Daniel’s companions where they came to meet him. The Count of the Bright Fountain then relates the story of the dwarf in the land of the Dark Mountain, how Daniel acquired the sword from him, how he came to his, the count’s, aid against the creature with the lethal head. He relates how Daniel slew the blood-bathing ogre and what had happened to the people of the Green Meadow. The king is amazed that Daniel has slain opponents whom no other man could withstand. All the knights present there praise Daniel’s courage and bravery. It is the custom at King Arthur’s court that no man should tell of his own honorable deeds. But such feats are related to them by those who have heard of them. All of them strive therefore to augment the next man’s fame and praise. Daniel’s companion then ask him who killed the giants and who has hewn the great opening through the rock. Gawein replies that all this was done by Daniel.

Motif References:

P 50 Noblemen (knights) [rules of chivalry]

StrDan-5377: They remain merry all through the night. In the morning when their opponents are to arrive for the battle they challenge them by once more causing the beast to wail. In a short time the army of Cluse gallops toward them and they rush out to meet them in fight. Each of Daniel’s knights excels in battle and many enemies are killed. At last the enemy is forced to surrender to Arthur and the battle ends. Soon the news of the battle and the death of their king begins to spread throughout the land of Cluse and every man able to fight makes himself ready for battle. They make great haste toward the court, where they hear their queen’s lament. At dawn of the fourth day they ride forth to meet King Arthur swearing either to avenge their king or else to abandon the land after that forever. Their numbers are four times as great as those with whom Arthur’s men have previously fought. King Arthur with his men comes riding up against the fourth army of Cluse and a furious battle begins. The battlefield is strewn with corpses and blood runs everywhere. All of them suffer from the great heat of the battle.

Motif References:

P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
P 555.8 (Bm) Avenging defeat in battle
P 556 Challenge to battle
F 1084.1 Deep streams of blood flow during battle
F 1084.1.1 (Tu) Heaps of corpses after furious battle

StrDan-5553: Daniel shows his valor and kills many enemies. Whatever he strikes with his sword is pierced, for it is amazingly sharp and Daniel himself strong and crafty. The Count of the Bright Fountain is a skillful fighter as well and kills all whom he encounters. King Arthur can be seen performing marvelous feats and his comrades follow him wherever he rides. They ride through blood up to the horses’ knees and all who are unhorsed drown in it. The warriors fight so furiously that everything which is on or around them glows red-hot and whatever their swords touch goes up in flames like straw. They battle all throughout the long hot day. In the evening a truce is arranged until the following day and they rest for the night. King Matur’s men camp near King Arthur. They post sentinels to guard against King Arthur’s escape for they are sure of their final victory.

Motif References:

P 550.1 (Li) Battle. War
P 558 (Bm) Truce
F 960.3 Extraordinary nature phenomena during furious battle
F 1084.1 Deep streams of blood flow during battle

StrDan-5715: Late in the night King Arthur enters into council with his men. Daniel speaks up and says he has devised a clever scheme which will bring them victory: When the truce comes to an end in the morning King Arthur’s men should obstruct their ears and as soon as the enemy begins the assault they will cause the beast to cry out. This will throw the enemies to the ground and force them to surrender. Thus both the land and its inhabitants will be theirs. The lords approve of Daniel’s wise advice and make haste to carry it out. As soon as the army of Cluse mounts the attack the following day Arthur’s men pull the banner from the beast’s mouth, causing its wail. The din knocks the enemies out of their saddles and all of king Matur’s men are forced to surrender and give their oath of allegiance. King Arthur’s companions then replace the banner and silence the beast. The men of Cluse yield to Arthur both themselves and their land, as well as their families. All of this he then turns back over to them as fiefs. They kneel at his feet and swear fidelity to him. Thus the enemies become good friends. King Matur is buried in a manner befitting his position along with all the other dead. King Arthur then turns all his thought towards an end to the animosity between himself and the Queen of Cluse.

Motif References:

P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
R 75 Surrendering
M 100.0.1 (Li) Oath of allegiance
M 246 Covenant of friendship
P 311.5 Covenant of friendship
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]
F 556 Remarkable voice
P 557.0.1 (Li) Council of war
J 672.1 Ears stopped with wax to avoid enchanting song. Odysseus and the sirens.
J 1113 Clever boy [youth, knight]
D 1419.2 Magic object paralyses.
D 1620.2 Automatic statue of animal
K 2350 Military strategy

StrDan-5813: Excellent physicians are called to care for the wounded who have been carried off the battlefield. The king summons before him the knights of Cluse, who earlier have been his foes but having witnessed his valor respect him as an upright man. He relates to them that he came to Cluse for their king had dispatched the giant to him with the message that he has to surrender himself and his land to king Matur. Their queen now bears hatred towards him and he asks them to win him her favor by telling her of his innocence and that he came there a prisoner. If she sets aside her animosity he will treat well all of them. He promises to compensate them for whatever harm he has caused. They are most pleased at the king’s words and bring about the queen’s reconciliation. The lords ride off. King Arthur however remains there in accordance with a custom: the man who has won victory in battle is required to stay close by to the battlefield for three days and three nights if he wishes to win an honorable victory. Whoever deserts the battlefield prematurely gives rise to talk that he has run away.

Motif References:

Z 71.1.1 Formula: three days and three nights
P 555 Defeat in battle [single combat]

StrDan-5897: The men of Cluse find their queen overcome by deep grief for her husband’s death which has nearly robbed her of her life. Her counselors as well as her dearest vassals try to comfort the lady and vow that they would serve her willingly and would never abandon her. They proclaim that if she does not forsake her lamenting and excessive weeping they would forfeit their service and favor. She replies that she will weep for her husband until she dies and never again think well of them who reproach her for her grief. One of her ministerials speaks up: By scorning their advice she would utterly forfeit her people and her land. King Matur, who had no right to demand King Arthur to become his vassal, and his army had to concede victory and there is no hope of defeating him. She therefore should follow their counsel that will bring her benefit and fame. Thereupon the queen declares that she will do as they counsel her.

Motif References:

P 14.15.1 (Old, wise) Counsellors of court [King’s council]
P 20 Queens
P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
T 211.9 Excessive grief at husband’s or wife’s death

StrDan-6053: The vassals say that if their lord had acted in a like manner he would still be alive today. There was no need to force King Arthur to journey to Cluse. King Arthur has demonstrated the greatness of his valor, and though he slew their lord and many a fine knight he has acted justly in doing so. They tell her that they have surrendered both themselves and their possessions. The king is willing to compensate her for her sorrow and the queen must do what her vassals did. The queen replies that she will follow them in their advice and their actions. She has full trust in them that they will not betray her and approves of their loyalty that they do not forsake her in her misfortune. She will drop her animosity if they pledge to remain ever at her command in word and in deed and never to anything that displeases her. All of them swear to this. Then the men of Cluse ride back to King Arthur and bring him the good tidings. The king sets out with them toward the court.

Motif References:

P 20 Queens
P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
P 559 (Li) Peace: making and conditions of peace (ransom, reparations, submission)

StrDan-6139: The lady greets Arthur, yet bursts into tears. Arthur, moved by her sorrow, begs her to forgive him. He wishes to win her favor and will spare no pains to atone for her damages and for the death of her husband, so that she will once more become happy. He is pained by her sorrow, although what has happened could not have been avoided with his good name intact. The queen is consoled to hear that it was self-defense which compelled King Arthur to slay her lord and to hear his promises. She forgets her anger and kisses him on the lips. The king enters into council with his men and asks them to tell him who should be the man to free her of her grief: He will confer him the lady and the land. Gawein says this man should be Daniel and all of them agree, glad to see Daniel rewarded for what he has done. The king praises the advice and asks Daniel whether he desires the land. The knight merrily accepts the reward.

Motif References:

P 28 Marriage of queen
T 68 Princess offered as prize
Q 112.0.1 Kingdom as reward
M 201.5 Covenant confirmed by marriage
M 246 Covenant of friendship
P 311.5 Covenant of friendship
P 559 (Li) Peace: making and conditions of peace (ransom, reparations, submission)

StrDan-6274: They return to the queen. King Arthur tells her that he wishes to bestow Daniel upon her in atonement and recounts Daniel’s exploits. The lady asks him if it will not bring disgrace upon her for calling so quick an end to the mourning of her husband. Arthur replies that this counsel is urged upon her by all her kinsmen and vassals and will not bring her any dishonor. She will receive the very finest knight now living. The queen agrees to be married to Daniel. Present amongst them are many priests who then give the queen to Daniel in marriage and by that act bestow upon him the kingdom and the crown. All of this is Daniel’s reward. The people receive him as their lord. Then Daniel wishes to have a great festival, and asks Arthur to stay there for the time of his festival. The people of Cluse are well accustomed to having festivals and they should make their own feast as praiseworthy. Then Daniel offers to those who desire to remain in Cluse to choose from among the five hundred maidens, all perfect in beauty, he has in his land. Each of them may, in addition, take sufficient land. They are pleased to hear this.

Motif References:

P 28 Marriage of queen
P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
T 68 Princess offered as prize
Q 112.0.1 Kingdom as reward
M 201.5 Covenant confirmed by marriage
M 246 Covenant of friendship
P 311.5 Covenant of friendship
P 559 (Li) Peace: making and conditions of peace (ransom, reparations, submission)
P 634 Feasts

StrDan-6424: The Count of the Bright Fountain – whom Daniel charges with fetching the Duchess of the Dark Mountain – the Count of the Green Meadow and the others are asked to bring their wives to take part in the great festival. In the meantime Daniel has dispatched messengers to summon his countrymen. The festival begins. All three of the ladies whom Daniel has rescued recount their stories to the queen who is most joyous that she has married this same man and she banishes her dead husband from her thoughts. As soon as Daniel has heard that all the people from his own land have arrived splendid tents are pitched on a lovely field nearby. Elephants then bring a good 24 elegant palaces on their backs. There is great splendor, the season is likewise splendid for the festival which begins on Whitsunday. The knights of the Round Table are clothed in the garb of their own lands and wear the finest garments. Early on Whitsunday the liegemen arrive. Daniel is crowned that day. Five hundred maidens are seen standing round about the queen. They are most beautiful. After a mass has been sung they have a fine meal in great abundance.

Motif References:

P 13.5 Crowning [and making] of kings
T 136.1 Wedding feast
P 634 Feasts
F 789 Extraordinary buildings and furnishings - miscellaneous

StrDan-6545: After they have dined they joust in exquisite equipment. They all are engaged in many forms of entertainment and the men of the Round Table strive to win praise just as courtly knights should do. The noble maidens observe all of this eagerly. They wear splendid garments. Above each maiden, shielding her from the sun, hovers a Babian whose feathers are more lustrous than a mirror. Daniel comports himself as a fine king should and all praise him. When it comes time to rest King Arthur’s men walk off to the maidens and there are many glances of love to be seen. Finally four hundred of the women are chosen to take in marriage the knights who have journeyed with King Arthur. In addition the Duchess of the Dark Mountain selects for herself a duke, by the name of Belamis, who is a famous knight. Moreover the Lord and the Lady of the Green Meadow have four sons, each of whom soon chooses for himself a wife.

Motif References:

B 172 Magic bird
P 561 Tournaments
P 634 Feasts
F 821 Extraordinary dress (clothes, robe, etc.)

StrDan-6687: Daniel then takes all of the women aside from the other guests and tells them that he would refuse his favor to all widows among them who refuse to take a husband there. They should follow the example of their queen. Daniel promises to reward them with gifts and favors, whereas whoever disobeys his instructions will stand in disfavor with him. Thereupon each lady asks a knight whether or not he has already betrothed himself to any woman and if he replies no, then the lady offers him her love. And the knights approach the ladies and asks her if she wants to have him as her husband. The ladies agree and they kiss. When Daniel finds his knights insufficient in number to make recompense to all of the ladies who have lost their husbands he dubs knights six hundred of his squires. He bestows upon them splendid garments, gives them fine horses and riding equipment.

Motif References:

P 53 (Bm) Obtaining knighthood
T 122 Marriage by royal order
P 634 Feasts

StrDan-6885: Just as the guests are caught up with joy there comes walking up a man who wears but a silken tunic and silken breeches. He is above average size, his complexion is most radiant and he has gray and white hair with curls. He bears a pole in his hand which he swings with mighty blows so that people are quick to make way for him. He finally comes before the throne. He cries out so that he is heard by all and commands them to fall silent. Then he asks to be shown the loftiest man in their midst. Gawein points out King Arthur. The stranger says he wishes to show them an exceptional game and they quickly make room for him. The man walks up to King Arthur, snatches him up like a wisp of straw and carries him off. So swiftly does he run off that no one is able to catch up with him on horseback though many make the attempt. All knights are greatly dismayed and are soon off in pursuit.

Motif References:

R 10.6 (Bm) Knight abducted
R 39.1 Abduction by magician.
F 681 Marvelous runner [extraordinary speed of runner]

StrDan-6983: The man who runs off with immense speed is the father of the two giants who have been slain there. King Arthur’s men have heard one of them speak of his father’s speed and cunning. The giants’ father carries King Arthur up onto a mountainside where they are unable to pursue him. He sets the king down onto a ledge from which he cannot move if he wants to live. Then the old man climbs back down and commands them all to fall silent. He blames them for his sons’ death which he will avenge by making them pay with their lives. They are about to shoot at the old man, but Daniel keeps them from it: They have to let the man live as long as he holds the king captive, and will have to convince this man to bring him back down to them. Daniel asks the man why he wishes to harm the king and intends to kill them all. The old man tells them that he will drag up each of them onto this mountain where they will die of starvation. This will be the revenge for his sons. He challenges the knights to fight him alone and unarmed.

Motif References:

R 10.6 (Bm) Knight abducted
R 39.1 Abduction by magician.
R 40 Places of captivity.
R 51.1 Prisoners starved
S 132 Murder by starvation.
H 217 Decision made by contest
P 233.6 Son avenges father
F 681 Marvelous runner [extraordinary speed of runner]
J 1113 Clever boy [youth, knight]
D 1711.8 Strong man as magician.

StrDan-7135: The old man finds many a volunteer amongst them. He asks who is the very finest man in their midst: They all fall silent, for it would be unseemingly to say for a knight that he himself were the finest, and it would be misbecoming as well to name any other man as taking on such a challenge. At last Parzival speaks up and praises himself. Leaving his sword behind Parzival walks toward the old man, who leaps down from the rock, grabs Parzival with one arm and climbs back up. Parzival defends himself so furiously that the old man hurls him onto a rock, which nearly kills the knight. A loud clamor arises down below and all of them, save Daniel, cry out that this man should be killed. Daniel entreats them to forgo this and to await his return for he would bring back help. He then sets out in haste for it is his plan to win a truce from the old man once he has acquired the magic net of the Maiden of the Green Meadow.

Motif References:

K 1 Contest won by magic
R 10.6 (Bm) Knight abducted
R 39.1 Abduction by magician.
P 50 Noblemen (knights) [rules of chivalry]
R 51 Mistreatment of prisoners
H 217 Decision made by contest
J 1113 Clever boy [youth, knight]

StrDan-7257: In a short time he arrives at the Green Meadow, where the maiden comes running out to greet him. As she laments that she cannot requite him for his service, Daniel tells her that she now has the occasion to do so. Daniel then relates to her the tale of how the giants’ father captured King Arthur and Parzival. He asks her to come with him and bring her net so that they could capture that man. Since not a single man is present there save Daniel she asks her damsels to bring her a horse. They are trying to ready a steed as rapidly as possible yet none of them is able to apply the saddle or the bit. Daniel himself quickly steps in (although such a service is not fit for a knight) for he does not want to waste time. They arrive at Cluse in a very short time. Her father welcomes Daniel and the maiden of the Green Meadow, who readies her net. No one can see what she is doing, save her mother and her father and both of them Daniel begs to say nothing until the old man would be entangled in that net. Since the old man has dragged Parzival up the mountainside he has been standing there taunting them with questions as to whether any one else wished to try his luck. They all say he should wait until Daniel returns. The old man sits down on the face of the cliff.

Motif References:

P 50 Noblemen (knights) [rules of chivalry]
N 831 Girl [woman] as helper

StrDan-7435: As soon as the net is in place, Daniel puts aside his sword and challenges the old man who at once rushes at him straight into the middle of the net. He is completely held in fetters. When the courtiers see the old man entrapped in the net they all are very pleased and receive the maiden even more warmly than before. Queen Danise offers the maiden her thanks and promises to reward her as long as she lives. Then Daniel addresses the old man and tells him that he will have to suffer death. The old man replies that he prefers to die than to live on, if he let him live this would be Daniel’s death. Vexed by those words Daniel reminds him that he lacked wisdom in the counsel which he offered his king and which brought about his downfall and that of his two giant sons. Arthur and his men only acted in self-defense.

Motif References:

K 700 Capture by deception
N 831 Girl [woman] as helper
D 1196 Magic net
D 1411 Magic object binds person (animal)

StrDan-7733: The old man says that if his sons have suffered death as a consequence of their own acts of violence then they rightly deserved their death, but he himself had no part in their actions. Had his lord included him at all in his plans he would not have permitted this to transpire. If they desire reconciliation he will not refuse, for King Matur is to blame for the death of his sons. He will now forgo his anger and gladly give him advice which will serve to augment Daniel’s good name. Daniel rejoices at this and bids the maiden to release the man from the net. Once freed he asks her about it and she tells him that it was a magic invisible net that has bound him. Then she tells him that she has a salve which will make it visible to him. The old man would be willing to part with all his possessions if these two objects might belong to him. Thereupon the maiden asks him to bring down his captives from atop the cliff. This accomplished she will give him both the net and the ointment. The old man most willingly carries King Arthur and Parzival down from the cliff. The king thanks him and he is given the magic objects. All of them are very happy.

Motif References:

D 859.8 Magic object as ransom of captive.
D 1196 Magic net
D 1244 Magic salve (ointment)
D 1323.5 Magic salve gives clairvoyance.
D 1411 Magic object binds person (animal)
D 1821.4 Magic sight by putting ointment into eye.
D 1825.3 Magic power to see invisible creatures
D 1982 Certain objects invisible

StrDan-7905: As the festival now goes on Daniel sees to it that his guests lack nothing. Then Daniel asks the king to let him ride to Britain to bring back Queen Gynovere, which the king grants. He tells him that once there he should order his courtiers to load for him 24 beasts of gold and jewels and silken clothing. Daniel replies that he is well furnished with everything and needs to import neither gold nor fine clothing. With 600 men Daniel journeys to Britain. He allows all of those who have recently chosen wives to remain in Cluse. While underway he bids his companions to permit their wives to accompany the queen back to Cluse. Lanzelet and Erec are now at court as well as the others who were out in search of adventure. They lament the fact that they have missed their king’s campaign.

Motif References:

W 11.2 Munificent monarch
P 634 Feasts

StrDan-8008: In the meantime another brave hero, the Duke Beladigant of Zone, has arrived at King Arthur’s court, for he has often heard tell of its great reputation. He wishes to be dubbed a knight by the king. They all embark with Daniel upon the journey to Cluse. When the guests have arrived the festival resumes with yet louder jubilation. Daniel’s esteem is greatly magnified because the queen has come there for his sake. As soon as King Arthur has heard of Beladigant’s wish to be dubbed a knight he gladly grants him his request and he is made a comrade of King Arthur. The court enjoys music and all sorts of pastimes: There are French fiddlers as well as German minstrels, and all sorts of musical instruments can be heard. There is jumping and hurling lances and all sorts of knightly sports. Readings are held from various works in French. One can watch a man capable of lifting with one arm a fortress or men able to fly like birds. Bows and cross-bows fire off arrows and bolts, there are knightly jousts and all manner of board games. Falcons and sparrow hawks fly about. Minstrels tell tales of knights in combat and of the flowers which adorned the ladies’ many wreaths and garlands. They hold a wide round-dance. The ladies all have shade from the Babians and the elephants which in that land bear palaces on their backs are driven here and there. It is a rarely exquisite festival that is held in Cluse.

Motif References:

W 11.2 Munificent monarch
P 53 (Bm) Obtaining knighthood
P 634 Feasts

StrDan-8229: Beladigant acquires the reputation there as one of the most excellent of knights. King Arthur then summons him and asks him if he is already married. He replies that he is not and thereupon the king grants him a wife and possessions. The Maiden of the Green Meadow is sent for. She is called Sandinose and her marvelous beauty combines the colors of red and white. King Arthur asks the knight what he thinks of this damsel and then asks the maiden if the knight pleases her. Both of them are pleased with each other and the king bestows them upon one another. Beladigant is made duke over the land of Cluse. Thus Sandinose has been rewarded for her net and her aid. Then King Arthur sends for the giants’ father and asks him if he would like to return with him to his court in Britain. If that is not his will the king will give him whatever he asks for. But the old man only asks that the king permits him to retain the fief which King Matur once granted him. This is a land encircled by mountains so high that nothing can escape or enter. He alone can come and go as he pleases. He has assembled there all manner of things which he enjoys as entertainment and as game. He begs King Arthur to grant it to him as a fief. The king gives him this land as his own for evermore and frees him from any service. The old man thanks him for it. Arthur’s praise and his fame rightfully never die out.

Motif References:

W 11.2 Munificent monarch
Q 113.6 (Bm) Lands and duchy as reward
Q 115 Reward: any boon that may be asked
F 145 Mountains at borders of otherworld
F 707 Extraordinary kingdom

StrDan-8412: Thus the festival lasts for four weeks’ time. The land is so rich that they would have been wanting for nothing even if the festival would continue on for a full year. The guests finally take their leave and ride off. The minstrels are richly rewarded. The Queen of Cluse embraces King Arthur as he is about to take leave of her and thanks him for having been so richly rewarded with such a fine husband. Then King Arthur merrily departs. Many of his men who have taken wives in Cluse remain behind. Giving away a land as wealthy as Cluse shows how generous a man the king is. Whenever Arthur has need of him Daniel is at hand and thus the king retains both his vassal Daniel and his land as well. Daniel dwells in bliss ever after with a never-ending festival there in his land. He invests his subjects with the very same fiefs which King Matur has granted them and even more, so that they might engage each day in tournament more zealously. Daniel is numbered among the very finest of knights and his praise spreads far and wide.

Motif References:

P 10 Kings [King’s famous court]
W 11.2 Munificent monarch
P 50.0.1 King and vassals: obligations of vassals to king [Feudality: mutual relationship between king and vassals]
P 634 Feasts

Matière de Bretagne

Der Stricker, Daniel von dem Blühenden Tal (>1220/50) Resler, Michael (ed.): Der Stricker, Daniel von dem Blühenden Tal. 2nd revised edition. (=ATB 92) Tübingen 1995

Der Stricker, Daniel von dem Blühenden Tal (>1220/50)
Resler, Michael (ed.): Der Stricker, Daniel von dem Blühenden Tal. 2nd revised edition. (=ATB 92) Tübingen 1995