Willehalm
Willehalm by Wolfram von Eschenbach, published by Penguin on December 4, 1984, is a notable epic poem that explores themes of military prowess and courtly love. This edition, comprising 320 pages, presents a narrative inspired by the style and subject matter of an Old French chanson de geste. The poem centers on the love story between Willehalm and Giburc, a Saracen woman who converts to Christianity, and the ensuing conflict that arises from her family’s desire for revenge.
Readers will find a vivid portrayal of the medieval knightly ideal, illustrated through the two battles of Alischanz, marked by significant violence and loss. The work balances its brutal depictions with tender moments between the lovers and insightful character portrayals, particularly of women. Wolfram’s narrative also reflects a surprising tolerance for pagans, adding depth to the story. This edition invites readers to engage with the complexities of love and conflict within a historical context.
Official synopsis Publisher
Wolfram von Eschenbach (fl. c. 1195-1225), best known as the author of Parzival, based Willehalm, his epic poem of military prowess and courtly love, on the style and subject matter of an Old French chanson de geste.
In it he tells of the love of Willehalm for Giburc, a Saracen woman converted to Christianity, and its consequences. Seeking revenge for the insult to their faith, her relatives initiate a religious war but are finally routed. Wolfram’s description of the two battles of Alischanz, with their massive slaughter and loss of heroes, and of the exploits of Willehalm and the quasicomic Rennewart, well displays the violence and courtliness of the medieval knightly ideal. Wolfram flavors his brutal account, however, with tender scenes between the lovers, asides to his audience, sympathetic cameos of his characters—especially the women—and, most unusually for his time, a surprising tolerance for ‘pagans’.
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