Ain Hupsches Vasnachtspill und Sagt von Künig Arthus, “A Pleasing Shrovetide Play About King Arthur,” is a German Shrovetide play from the fifteenth century. Shrovetide plays were traditional carnival or festival performances, often comedic and satirical, held during the Shrovetide or Carnival season.

In this particular play, the Queen of Zipper sends a horn to King Arthur’s court as a means of testing the chastity of his noblemen The use of a magical or symbolic object to test fidelity is a theme found in various medieval stories, and it often leads to humorous and, at times, embarrassing siutations for the characters involved. The Shrovetide context suggests that the play would have been performed during the festive season leading up to Lent.

The title, “A Pleasing Shrovetide Play About King Arthur,” indicates the lighthearted and entertaining nature of the work, in line with the traditions of Shrovetide festivities. The play likely incorporates elements of comedy, satire, and, given the Arthurian context, perhaps som chivalric themes as well.

An Dialog Etre Arzur Roe d’an Breounet ha Guynglaff, “A Dialogue Between Arthur and Guynglaff,” is a late sixteenth-century or early seventeenth century Breton prose piece. It features a meeting between King Arthur and a character named Guynglaff, who delivers prophecies reminiscent of those associated with Merlin.

In Arthurian literature, Merlin is often portrayed as a seer and prophet with the ability to foresee future events. Other characters, sometimes influenced by the Merlin tradition, may also engage in prophecy within the Arthurian context. The fragment appears to be an example of such a text, where Guynglaff takes on the role of a prophetic figure.

The Breton prose style and the incorporation of Arthurian elements make this work part of the rich tradition of Arthurian literature that continued to evolve and be adapted in various forms during the late medieval and early modern peroids.

Arthur, Monarch of the Britons, a Tragedy is a dramatic work written by William Hilton in 1759. This English verse tragedy provide a dramatic account of the downfall and death of King Arthur. The theme of the tragedy often explores the darker aspects of the Arthurian legend, focusing on the challenges, conflicts, and eventual demise of the legendary monarch.

William Hilton’s work reflects a continuation of the tradition of adapting Arthurian legends into various literary forms, in this case, a tragic play. The exploration of Arthur’s fate and the tragic elements of his story adds depth and emotion resonance to the broader Arthurian literary tradition.

Arthur, or the Northern Enchantment in Seven Books is a work written by Richard Hole in 1789. This English prose narrative unfolds in seven books and centers around King Arthur seeking the assistance of the legendary figure Merlin to confront Hengist and the Saxons. The narrative likely combines elements of adventure, enchantment, and conflict as Arthur strives to defend his realm against external threats.

Avarchide is a work written by Luigi Alamanni in 1548. This Italian verse narrative depicts Arthur and his soldiers laying siege to Avaricum in Gaul. The story is modeled on the Trojan War from Greek mythology, showcasing an interplay of medieval Arthurian legend with classical themes.

Luigi Alamanni’s Avarchide adds a unique twist to the Arthurian narrative by drawing inspiration from classical sources, providing readers with a fresh perspective on the legendary King Arthur and his exploits.

Breta sögur, translated as “Sagas of the Britons,” is an Old Norse-Icelandic compilation that spans the fourteenth to the nineteenth century. It is a rendition of Geoffrey of Monmouth’s Historia Regum Britanniae, a Latin work prividing a mythical history of Britain, along with additional material from various sources.

This Old Norse-Icelandic adaption reflects the Norse tradition’s engagement with the Arthurian legend, incorporating elements from Geoffrey’s work and possibly other sources. It contributes to the rich tapestry of Arthurian literature, showcasing how the legend transcended geographic and linguistic boundaries, leaving its imprint on Norse storytelling.

The Bliocadran Prologue is an integral part of the Arthurian literary tradition, serving as the introduction to Chrétien de Troyes’ romance Perceval, le Conte du Graal (“Perceval, the Story of the Grail”). Written in early thirteenth century French verse, this prologue provides essential context for the narrative that follows.

In this prologue, Bliocadran, Perceval’s father, embarks on a quest that ultimately leads to his death. This sets the stage for Perceval’s own journey, as he inherits the quest and becomes a key figure in the Arthurian legend, particularly in the context of the Holy Grail.

The Bliocadran Prologue adds depth and complexity to the overall narrative, offering insights into the lineage and heroic traditions tha shape Perceval’s character and the larger Arthurian world. It’s a valuable piece within the Arthurian literary canon, showcasing the intergenerational nature of quests and the enduring themes of chivalry and adventure.

Breudwyt Rhonabwy, translated as “The Dream of Rhonabwy,” is a medieval Welsh prose narrative dating back to the thirteenth century. The tale is part of the Welsh literary tradition and provides a fantastical and dreamlike account of a warrior named Rhonabwy and his encounter with King Arthur.

In the narrative, Rhonabwy falls asleep on the hill of Craig Rhonabwy during the time of the battle of Badon, a significant event in Arthurian legend. During his dream, Rhonabwy is transported to a vibrant and otherwordly landscape where he meets Arthur and witnesses various scenes featuring Arthurian characters.

The narrative is known for its imaginative and often humorous elements, depicting anachronistic and absurd situations. Despite its dreamlike quality, The Dream of Rhonabwy contributes to the rich tapestry of Welsh Arthurian literature, offering a unique perseptive on the legendary figure of King Arthur and his court.

Britannia, written in 1586 by William Camden, is a Latin prose work that serves as a comprehensive survey of British geography. In this influential historical and topgraphical work, Camden extensively explores the geography, history, and antiquities of Britain.

One notable aspect of Britannia relevant to Arthurian legend is Camdens identification of certain locales with Arthurian sites. Specifically, he associates Cadbury with Camelot, connecting a real geographical location with the legendary court of King Arthur. This connection adds an intriguing layer to the historical and geographical aspects of the Arthurian legend.

Camden’s Britannia played a significant role in shaping the perception of British history and geography during the Renaissance. The work is recognized for its impact on the study of antiquities and its influence on later scholars and historians.

Brito di Brettagna, written by Antonio Pucci between 1340 and 1380, is an Italian verse work that features the character Brito. In the narrative, Brito embarks on a quest to obtain artifacts from Arthur’s court with the aim of winning the love of a lady. This theme of embarking on a quest to prove oneself and win the favor of a lady is a common motif in medieval romances and Arthurian literature.

The story likely unfolds with a series of adventures, challenges, and encounters as Brito seeks to fulfill the requirements set by the lady. The court of King Arthur often serves as a backdrop for such quests, highlighting its centrality in medieval romance literature. As many works of this nature, Brito di Brettagna reflects the chivalric ideals and courtly love traditions prevalent in medieval literature.

Brut, written by Layamon in the late twelfth century to the mid-thirteenth century, is an English adaptation and expansion of Wace’s Roman de Brut. Layamon’s Brut is an important Middle English work that continues the tradition of recounting the legendary history of Britain, drawing from the material found in Geoffrey of Monmouth’s Historia Regum Britanniae and Wace’s Roman de Brut.

Layamon’s work is written in alliterative verse, and it extends and transforms the French source material to suit the linguistic and cultural context of medieval England. Like Wace’s Roman de Brut, Layamon’s Brut narrates the legendary history of Britain from its mythical foundation to the legendary King Arthur and his successors. The work covers the deeds of legendary figures such as Brutus, King Lear, and Arthur, contributing to the development of the Arthurian legend in English literature.

Layamon’s Brut is a valuable text for understanding the cultural and literary milieu of medieval England, and it plays a significant role in the transmission of Arthurian legends in the English language. The work exhibits Layamon’s creative engagement with the source material, offering a distinctive English perspective on the legendary past.

The Prose Brut refers to a group of chronicles written from the late thirteenth century to the late fifteenth century. These chronicles are composed in various languages, including Anglo-Norman, Middle English, and Latin. The term “Brut” is derived from the Old French word brut, meaning chronicle or history. The Prose Brut tradition is a continuation and adaptation of the historical and legendary material found in Geoffrey of Monmouth’s Historia Regum Britanniae.

Geoffrey of Monmouth’s work, written in Latin during the twelfth century, played a crucial role in shaping the Arthurian legend and providing a pseudo-historical account of Britain’s early history. The Prose Brut chronicles build upon Geoffrey’s narrative but are presented in prose form. These texts continue the legendary history of Britain, incorporating the deeds of legendary figures such as Brutus, King Arthur, and other early British kings.

The authors of the Prose Brut drew upon various sources, adapting and expanding the material to suit their cultural and linguistic contexts. These chronicles became a significant part of the medieval historiographical tradition in England, contributing to the transmission and development of Arthurian legends. The inclusion of historical and legendary events in the Prose Brut relfects the medieval fascination with the origins and history of the British people.

The Cantare dei Cantari, also known as the “Song of Songs,” is an Italian poetic work written around 1380 by an anonymous author, possibly Antonio Pucci. This literary piece contains stories related to Arthurian and Carolingian figures, blending elements from both traditions into a single narrative.

The inclusion of Arthurian and Carolingian figures underscores the popularity of these legends during the medieval period. Arthurian legends, associated with King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, and Carolingian legends, often centered around Charlemagne and his knights, were prominent themes in medieval literature, reflecting the ideals of chivalry and heroism.

As an anonymous work, the Cantare dei Cantari contributes to the rich tapestry of medieval literature, preserving and reshaping the tales of legendary figures for audiences of its time. The blending of Arthurian and Carolingian elements in this compilation demonstrates the interconnectedness of different cultural and literary traditions during the medieval period.

Chevrefueil, also known as “The Honeysuckle,” is a medieval French verse written in the mid to late twelfth century by Marie de France. This poem is part of Marie de France’s collection of lais, which are romantic and narrative poems that often focus on themes of love, chivalry, and courtly relationships.

In Chevrefueil, the narrative revolves around the legendary love story of Tristan and Isolde. During Tristan’s exile from the court of King Mark, he and Isolde have a passionate tryst in the forest. The title, Chevrefueil, refers to the honeysuckle, which becomes a symbolic element in the narrative.

The poem explores themes of love, desire, and the challenges faced by the lovers in the context of courtly romance. Marie de France’s lais, including Chevrefueil, are notable for their elegant style, vivid imagery, and exploration of compex emotions within the framework of medieval romantic literature.

Cligés is a medieval French verse romance written by Chrétien de Troyes in the late twelfth century. Chrétien de Troyes is one of the most important poets of Arthurian romance, and Cligés is one of his notable contributions to this genre.

The narrative of Cligés revolves around the characters Cligés and his father Alexander, who are heirs to the empire of Constantinople. The story unfolds with their adventures both at the court of King Arthur and in their homeland. The romance incorporates elements of chivalry, courtly love, and political intrigue, which are characteristic of Chrétien de Troyes’ works.

At Arthur’s court, Cligés becomes entangled in courtly love, facing challenges and dilemmas that are central to the narrative. The romance explores themes such as love, honor, and the complexities of relationships within the context of medieval courtly society.

Cligés is part of Chrétien de Troyes’ Arthurian romances, which also include Erec and Enide, Lancelot, the Knight of the Cart, Yvain, the Knight of the Lion, and the unfinished Perceval, the Story of the Grail. These works have had a significant influence on the Arthurian literary tradition, shaping the portrayal of characters and themes that would resonate in later medieval literature.

The Chronica Gentis Scotorum, written around 1385 by John of Fordun, is a Latin chronicle that provides a historical account of the people of Scotland. Fordun’s work is an important source for Scottish history during the medieval period.

One notable feature of the Chronica Gentis Scotorum is its portrayal of Mordred as the rightful heir to the British throne. Mordred is traditionally known in Arthurian legend as the traitorous nephew of King Arthur, who played a role in the downfall of the Round Table. The narrative usually depicts Mordred as an antagonist, opposing Arthur’s rightful rule.

In the context of John of Fordun’s chronicle, the portrayal of Mordred as the rightful heir to the British throne might represent a departure from the traditional Arthurian narrative. The reasons behind Fordun’s interpretation could be influenced by political or cultural factors of his time. Historians often consider chronicles like these as products of their era, shaped by the concerns and perspectives of the authors.

The Chronicon de Lanercost or “Lanercost Chronicle, is a Latin chronicle written in the fourteenth century. It is a historical document that provides an account of various events, including notable visits and occurrences. In one entry, it mentions an episode in 1216 where Arthur visits and dines with the Bishop of Winchester.

This entry could be interpreted as a historical anecdote or a fictionalized account, given that it places King Arthur, a legendary figure from Arthurian lore, in a specific historical context. Arthurian legends often blend historical and mythical elements, and different chronicles and texts may present Arthur in various settings.

The Chronicon de Lanercost is valuable for historians and scholars studying medieval chronicles, as it offers insights into the events, customs, and perspectives of the time in which it was written. The mention of King Arthur in such a context adds an interesting layer to the interplay between historical and legendary elements found in medieval chronicles.

The Chronicon Mantis Sancti Michaelis in Periculo Maris or “Chronicle of St. Michael’s Mount” is an early twelfth century Breton chronicle. It contains a note indicating that Arthur was king of Britain in the year 421.

This specific mention of King Arthur as the ruler of Britain in 421 aligns with the Arthurian tradition, which often places King Arthur in a historical context, albeit one that blends historical events with legendary elements. The chronicle’s reference to Arthur reflects the enduring impact of Arthurian legends on medieval literature and historical narratives.

While historical accuracy is often challenging to ascertain in medieval chronicles, they provide valuable insights into how figures like King Arthur were percevied and integrated into one historical consciousness of the time. The mention of Arthur in the Chronicon Montis Sancti Michaelis in Periculo Maris contributes to the rich tapestry of Arthurian lore found in medieval manuscripts.

The Cronica sive Antiquitates Glastoniensis Ecclesie, also known as the “Chronicle of the Antiquities of the Church of Glastonbury,” written in the mid-fourteenth century by John of Glastonbury. This Latin chronicle provides a historical account of the church at Glastonbury and is particularly notable for its description of the discovery of King Arthur’s body in 1190.

According to the chronicle, during the reign of King Henry II, specifically in the year 1190, the monks at Glastonbury Abbey claimed to have discovered the graves of King Arthur and Queen Guinevere. The account narrates that the bodies were found buried in a hollowed oak tree on the grounds of Glastonbury Abbey. The discovery of Arthur’s remains added a layer of historical legitimacy to the Arthurian legends and contributed to the longstanding association of Glastonbury with Arthurian lore.

It is important to note that while the Glastonbury tradition became influential in popular Arthurian legend, the historical accuracy of the discovery remains a subject of debate among historians and scholars. The Cronica sive Antiquitates Glastoniensis Ecclesie remains a significant source for understanding the medieval perceptions and narrative surrounding King Arthur.

Culhwch and Olwen is a Welsh prose tale that dates to the late eleventh century. This narrative is part of the collection of medieval Welsh prose tales known as the Mabinogion. The tale revolves around Culhwch, who seeks Arthur’s assistance in marrying Olwen, the daughter of the giant Ysbaddaden.

To win Olwen’s hand in marriage, Culhwch is given a list of nearly impossible tasks by Olwen’s father. Arthur, along with his knights, becomes involved in helping Culhwch fulfill these challenging tasks. The tale features a series of adventures, magical elements, and encounters with various mythological and supernatural figures.

One distinctive feature of Culhwch and Olwen is the inclusion of a comprehensive list of Arthurian warriors, numbering around 250. This list, often referred to as “The Three Hundred,” provides the names of Arthur’s knights and serves a valuable catalog of characters in Arthurian legend.

The tale blends elements of folklore, mythology, and heroic romance, contributing to the rich tradition of Arthurian literature in Welsh literature. Culhwch and Olwen is an important text for understanding the medieval Welsh conception of Arthur and his court.

Claris et Laris is a medieval French romance written in verse around 1268. It tells the story of the adventures and loves of two friends, Claris and Laris. The narrative follows their journey though various challenges, encounters, and romances, showcasing their loyalty to each other and their individual exploits.

The tale is set against a backdrop of chivalry and courtly love, typical of medieval romance literature. Through their adventures, the characters navigate themes of friendship, honor, and the pursuit of love.

Conti di Antichi Cavalier, translated as “Tales of the Knights of Old,” is a collection of stories written in Italian prose during the thirteenth century. Among the twenty tales included in this work, one particular story focuses on the parents of Galehaut and the Castle of Tears.

The narrative likely delves into the background and lineage of Galehaut, a character often associated with the Arthurian legend, and may explore elements of romance, chivalry, and adventure typical of medieval literature. These tales contribute to the broader tradition of knightly stories and romances popular during the medieval period.

Daniel von dem blühenden Tal, or “Daniel of the Blossoming Valley,” is a German verse narrative written by Der Stricker between 1210 and 1225. The story revolves around Sir Daniel, a knight who emerges triumphant over Arthur’s enemies and eventually attains the status of a king.

The narrative likely incorporates elements of chivalric adventures, battles, and the theme of overcoming challenges. As with many medieval romances, the tale contributes to the rich tapestry of Arthurian literature prevalent during that period.

Das Vasnachspil Mit der Kron or “Shrovetide Play with the Crown,” is a German Shrovetide play from the fifteenth century. In this play, the King of Abian sends a crown to Arthur’s court as a means to test the fidelity of the men in Arthur’s court.

The crown likely serves as a symbol or magical object that leads to challenges or moral dilemmas for the characters, contributing to the themes commonly found in Shrovetide plays and Arthurian literature of the time.

De Amore, meaning “Of Love,” is a Latin prose treatise written around 1185 by Andreas Capellanus, also known as Andreas the Chaplain. This work is a significant piece on courtly love, exploring the ideals, rules, and practices associated with courtly love during the medieval period.

In one episode within the treatise, a knight wins a hawk at Arthur’s court. This example likely serves as an illustrative or allegorical element within the broader discussion of courtly love in the text.

De Casibus Virorum Illustrium, meaning “The Fates of Illustrious Men,” is a work written by the Italian author Giovanni Boccaccio between 1355 and 1362. This collection of biographies is presented in a moralizing and allegorical framework, examining the rise and fall of various famous figures.

In the context of Arthurian legend, Boccaccio draws on the narrative proivided by Geoffrey of Monmouth in his Historia Regum Britanniae. The work likely explores Arthur’s life and death, portraying these events within the broader thematic structure of the book.

De Excidio et Conquestu Britanniae, translated as “Of the Ruin and Conquest of Britain,” is a Latin chronicle written around 540 by Gildas the Wise, a British monk. The work is primarily a tirade or lamentation against the British kings of Gildas’ time, expressing his disapproval of their actions and moral decadence.

Content
Gildas criticizes the rulers of Britain for their perceived moral decay and sins. He uses harsh language to condemn their actions and bemoans the state of the Britons. Gildas contrasts the allegd virtues of the Britons during the Roman occupation with the vices of his contemporary rulers. He mourns the loss of the order and civilization that he believes existed under Roman rule.

The chronicle mentions several historical figures, including Ambrosius, Vortigern, and the Battle of Badon. Ambrosius Aurelianus is often associated with a heroic resistance against the invading Saxons, and Vortigern is depicted as a ruler facing challenges from both external invaders and internal strife. The Battle of Badon is traditionally associated with a significant victory by the Britons, often linked to Arthur.

Influence and Survival
De Excidio et Conquestu Britanniae is an important source for understanding the history and sentiments of sixth century Britain. It provides insights into the social, political, and religious aspects of the time. The text has survived in a few manuscripts, and its historical value lies in its reflections on the events and conditions of post-Roman Britain.

In the context of Arthurian legend, the mention of the Battle of Badon in Gildas’ work is significant because later Arthurian literature, including Geoffrey of Monmouth’s Historia Regum Britanniae, further developed the legend of King Arthur and his association with the Battle of Badon.

De Ortu Waluuanii Nepotis Arturi, translated as “Of the Rise of Gawain, Nephew of Arthur,” is a Latin prose work written in the late thirteenth century. This text focuses on the early life and adventures of Gawain, one of the most celebrated knights of the Round Table in Arthurian legend. Gawain is a prominent figure in Arthurian legend, known for his chivalry, loyalty, and various adventures. He is often portrayed as the nephew of King Arthur, the son of either King Lot or King Urien.

Like many medieval texts, De Ortu Waluuanii Nepotis Arturi exists in manuscript form. Researchers and historians study these manuscripts to understand the variations and nuances in different versions of the narrative.

De Principis Instructione or “On the Instruction of Princes,” is a Latin chronicle written around 1193 by Giraldus Cambrensis, also known as Gerald of Wales, a Welsh cleric, scholar, and chronicler. The work is a treatise on the education and behavior suitable for princes and rulers. In addition to advice on princely conduct, it contains various historical anecdotes and legends.

The primary purpose of the text is to provide guidance and counsel to princes on matters related to their education, behavior, and governance. It reflects medieval ideas about the virtues and responsibilities expected of rulers. Giraldus often included historical anecdotes, legends, and stories in his works. These narratives were intended to illustrate points or entertain readers.

One notable episode in De Principis Instrictione is an account of the discovery of King Arthur’s body at Glastonbury. According to Giraldus, Arthur’s grave was found in 1191, leading to a significant interest in Arthurian lore during that period.

The work is composed in Latin, which was the scholarly and ecclesiastical language of the time. Latin chronicles like this one were common in medieval Europe for recording historical events, moral teachings, and legendary tales. Giraldus Cambrensis’s work, including De Principis Instructione, had an impact on medieval thought and literature. His writings were read and studied, contributing to the intellectual culture of the time.

Der Luneten Mantel or “Lunet’s Mantle,” is a Shrovetide play written in the fifteenth century. Shrovetide plays, also known as carnival or fastnacht plays, were performed during the Shrovetide or pre-Lenten season as a form of festive entertainment. These plays often featured humorous or satirical elements and were performed in various regions of medieval Europe. The play likely emerged within the cultural context of Shrovetide festivities during the fifteenth century. Attribution of authorship for medieval plays can be challenging, and many such works are anonymous.

The central plot of the play revolves around Lunet, a character who sends a magical chastity mantel to King Arthur’s court. The mantle, endowed with supernatural properties, likely leads to humorous and embarrassing situations for the characters at Arthur’s court. Lunet’s actions, particularly the introduction of the magical mantle, are designed to create comedic or awkward situations, providing entertainment for the audience. The embarrassment caused by magical or trick objects is a common motif in medieval comedic literature.

Der Mantel, translated as “The Mantle,” is a medieval German verse narrative written in the thirteenth century. The authorship of this work is attributed to an anonymous writer, and there is speculation that Heinrich von dem Türlin might be the possible author.

The narrative centers around a chastity test involving a mantle at King Arthur’s court. Chastity tests, often involving magical or symbolic items, were common motifs in medieval literature, particularly in Arthurian romances.

De Sancto Joseph ab Arimathia, translated as “Of Saint Joseph of Arimathea,” is a Latin prose work written in 1516. This composition focuses on the life of Joseph of Arimathea, a figure closely associated with Christian tradition and Arthurian legend.

De Wrake van Ragisel, translated as “The Avenging of Ragisel,” is a Dutch verse work written in the early to mid-thirteenth century.

The work is an adaption of the French narrative La Vengeance Raguidel (“The Vengeance of Raguidel”). The fact that it is a Dutch adaptation suggests the influence of French literature on medieval Dutch storytelling. During this period, literary themes and narratives often circulated across regions and were adapted to suit local linguistic and cultural contexts.

The Dialogue of Arthur and Gwenhwyfar is a Welsh poetic verse work dating to the sixteenth century. The original Welsh title is Deialog rhwng Arthur a Gwenhwyfar.

The dialogue involves a conversation between Arthur and Guenevere. The presence of Melwas and Kay adds complexity to the narrative.

Die Ehbrecherbruck or “The Adulterer’s Bridge,” is a Shrovetide play written by Hans Sachs (1494-1576) in 1545. Hans Sachs was a German Meistersinger (master singer), poet, playwright, and shoemaker. He became known for his extensive body of work, including numerous plays, poems, and songs.

The play is composed in verse, which involved the use of rhymed and metrically structured poetry. The play revolves around King Arthur constructing a bridge to test the chastity of Queen Guenevere. Guenevere successfully psses the test, demonstrating her fidelity to Arthur.

Die Riddere Metter Mouwen or “The Knight with the Sleeve” is a Dutch verse work from the mid to late thirteenth century. The author of this work remains unidentified. It was written during the High Middle Ages, a period marked by the flourishing of literature, art, and culture across Europe. It is written in Dutch, reflecting the linguistic heritage of the region.

The narrative follows the adventures of Miraudijs, referred to as the “Knight with the Sleeve.”

Dis Ist Frauw Tristerat Horn von Saphoien translates to “This is Lady Tristerat of Savoy’s Horn” in English. This work was written in German verse in the fifteenth century, the late medieval period in Germany.

Lady Tristerat of Savoy sends a magical chastity horn to Arthur’s court.

Diu Crône or “The Crown” is an Arthurian romance written by Heinrich von dem Türlin around 1230. It is written in Middle High German and understanding the themes and motifs in Diu Crône provides insights into the cultural and literary reception of Arthurian legends in medieval Germany.

Diu Cröne is an epic Grail story, contributing to the broader tradition of liteature centered around the Holy Grail. The work presents Gawain as the Grail Hero, a unique perspective compared to other Arthurian narratives. The story includes the abduction of Queen Guenevere, a common theme in Arthurian legends. Chastity tests, a recurring motif in Arthurian literature, are also part of the narrative.

Alternative spellings: Die Krone, The Crown

Draco Normannicus or “The Norman Dragon” is a Latin chronicle written around 1169 by Étienne de Rouen, or Stephen of Rouen, a medieval chronicler and historian.

The chronicle features exchanges of letters between Arthur, often associated with Breton folklore, and King Henry II. The exhanges between Arthur and Henry II reflect the political complexities and disputes of the medieval period.

Durmart le Gallois is a medieval French romance written in verse during the early thirteenth century. In English the title is translated to “Durmart the Welshman.” It is written in Old French, the literary language of medieval France.

The romance focuses on the adventures of Durmart, who woos and wins the love of Queen Fenise of Ireland.

Edolanz is a medieval German romance written in Middle High German verse during the mid-thirteenth century. The romance focuses on the adventures of Edolanz, a character involved in various quests and challenges.

Edolanz is particularly known for rescuing Gawain, a prominent figure in Arthurian legend, and for winning a sparrowhawk tournament. A sparrowhawk tournament is a notable event in the narrative. Tournaments were common motifs in medieval romances, often serving as settings for knights to showcase their prowess.

The romance is a fragment, suggesting that the surviving text may be incomplete or part of a larger work. The survival of medieval romances often depends on manuscript copies, and the reception of these works has evolved over the centuries.

Erec is a medieval German romance written in verse by Hartmann von Aue during the late twelfth century. It is written in Middle High German, the medieval German literary language.

The work is an adaptation of Chrétien de Troyes’s French romance Erec et Enide. While based on Chrétien’s narrative, Hartmann von Aue introduces some modifications and adaptations to suit the German literary tradition.

Erec follows the adventures of the eponymous knight, Erec, and his wife, Enite (Enide), as they navigate challenges, quests, and courtly situations. The narrative explores themes of chivalry, love, and the balance between martial and courtly virtues. The theme of courtly love, a prominent feature in medieval romance, is central to the relationship between Erec and Enite.

Erex Saga, also known as the “Saga of Erec,” is a thirteenth century Old Icelandic prose adaptation of Chrétien de Troyes’s work Erec and Enide. Erex Saga is part of the Icelandic saga tradition, a body of literature than includes sagas of kings, legendary sagas, and family sagas.

The saga follows the adventures and challenges faced by the knight Erec and his wife Enide.

The saga has been preserved in medieval manuscripts, contributing to its survival. The reception of sagas often involves their inclusion in medieval manuscripts and subsequently scholarly studies.

The Estoire del Saint Graal or “History of the Holy Grail,” is one of the key texts in the Vulgate Cycle, also known as the Lancelot-Grail Cycle or the Pseudo-Map Cycle. The Vulgate Cycle is a significant compilation of Arthurian romances written in Old French prose during the thirteenth century. The cycle consists of several interconnected works that together form an extensive narrative of the Arthurian legend.

Authorship
The authorship of the Vulgate Cycle is attributed to various anonymous writers, and it is often referred to as the work of the Pseudo-Map. The name comes from presence of a world map in some manuscripts, mistakenly associated with the medieval scholar Lambert of St-Omer (Lambert le Tort).

Chronology
The Estoire del Saint Graal is the first part of the Vulgate Cycle and is followed by other texts like the Merlin and Lancelot. It provides the background and foundation for the subsequent stories.

Content
The narrative begins with the early history of the Holy Grail, focusing on Joseph of Arimathea. It recounts Joseph’s role in collecting Christ’s blood in the Grail and his subsequent jorney to Britain. The Grail is eventually placed in the care of the Fisher King at the Grail Castle, setting the stage for the quests and adventures of the knights of the Round Table.

Influence
The Vulgate Cycle had a profound impact on later Arthurian literature, shaping the portrayal of characters and events in the Arthurian legend. It contributed significantly to the development of the Grail Quest, a central theme in later medieval romances.

Integration with Other Texts
The Estoire del Saint Graal is followed by the Merlin, which introduces the character of Merlin and provides additional context to the Arthurian narrative. The subsequent sections of the Vulgate Cycle continue the story, with the Lancelot and the Queste del Saint Graal focusing on Lancelot and the search for the Holy Grail.

Febusso e Breusso is an Italian poem written in the fourteenth century, around 1325-1335. The poem centers around the characters Sir Febus and Sir Breus and is based on an episode from the Arthurian legend involving Palamedes.

The poem is an Italian romance composed in verse and the authorship is attributed to an anonymous writer. The two main characters, Febus and Breus, are knights of the Arthurian court. Sir Breus is often described as “the Pitiless” in the poem, emphasizing a certain aspect of his character. The narrative revolves around Sir Breus stumbling upon the cavern tomb of Sir Febus.l The tomb is the setting for a significant episode, and the encounter between the two knights unfolds in this text.

The poem draws inspiration from the broader Arthurian tradition, particularly the tales of Palamedes. Palamedes is a Saracen knight in Arthurian legend, known for his unrequited love for Queen Iseult (Isolde) and his role in various chivalric adventures.

Fergus is a medieval French romance written in verse, composed by Guillaume le Clerc between 1200-1233. The narrative focuses on the adventures of Fergus, a character often referred to as a “Fair Unknown,” who becomes associated with Arthur’s court.

Ferguut is a medieval Dutch verse romance that draws inspiration from the Arthurian literary tradition, particularly from the French romance Fergus written by Guillaume le Clerc.

Ferguut was composed in the mid to late thirteenth century, attributed to an anonymous poet. Similar to the French romance, Ferguut features a protagonist named Ferguut. The name Ferguut is often associated with the Arthurian tradition, and the character may share thematic elements with other “Fair Unknown” knights.

The First Continuation of Chrétien de Troyes’s Perceval, often attributed to Wauchier de Denain, is a medieval French verse continuation that extends and continues the narrative left unfinished by Chrétien. The work is believed to have been written around the year 1200. The exact dating of medieval texts can be challenging, but scholars generally place it within the early thirteenth century.

The First Continuation picks up the story where Chrétien’s Perceval was left incomplete. It continues the adventures of the main characters, particularly focusing on Gawain and introducing new episodes involving Caradoc. This continuation adds further layers to the Grail quest narrative and expands on the characters’ quests and challenges.

Like many Arthurian romances, the First Continuation engages with the themes of chivalry, questing, and the search for the Holy Grail. The continuation builds upon Chrétien’s groundwork, contributing to the evolving Arthurian literary tradition.

The First Continuation is part of a series of continuations and adaptations of Chrétien’s Perceval by different authors. Other continuations, such as the Second and Third Continuations, were produced by different writers, each contributing to the development of the Grail legend.

This work exists within the broader context of medieval French literature, particularly the Arthurian romance tradition. The Arthurian legends were highly popular during this period, with various poets and writers adding their own interpretations and expansions to the stories.

Wauchier de Denain is also associated with the Queste del Saint Graal, another significant Arthurian romance that continues the Grail Quest narrative.

Floriant et Florete is a medieval French romance written in verse. Its exact date of composition is estimated to be around 1250-1275. As is common with many medieval romances, the authorship remains unknown. It is composed in Old French verse, which was common language for medieval romances.

Floriant et Florete centers around the adventures of Floriant, a character who is raised by Morgan le Fay. Morgan le Fay, often depicted as a powerful enchantress in Arthurian legends, plays a significant role in shaping Floriant’s destiny. The narrative unfolds as Floriant embarks on various adventures and eventually marries the daughter of the Emperor of Constantinople, named Florete.

The inclusion of Morgan le Fay as a central character aligns the narrative with Arthurian themes. Morgan le Fay is a complex figure in Arthurian legend, often portrayed as a sorceress with both benevolent and malevolent aspects. Her role as a mentor or guardian to Florete adds a layer of magic and mystique to the story.

The Fourth Continuation of Chrétien de Troyes’s Perceval, also known as the Continuation-Gerbert, is a medieval French romance written in verse. It is attributed to Gerbert de Montreuil, who is believed to have composed the work around 1230. Gerbert de Montreuil was a medieval French poet, and his continuation serves as a sequel to Chrétien de Troyes’s unfinished romance, Perceval, the Story of the Grail.

Like many medieval romances, the Fourth Continuation is written in Old French verse. Old French was the literary language of the medieval courts, and romances in this language were popular during the High Middle Ages.

The Fourth Continuation picks up where Chrétien de Troyes left off in Perceval. The story revolves around Perceval’s return to the Grail Castle, where he engages in further adventures. Notably, Perceval mends the Grail Sword, which is a significant element tied to the Grail Quest.

The Grail Castle and the Grail Sword are key components of the Arthurian Grail legend. The Grail Castle is a mystical place associated with the Holy Grail, a sacred and elusive object. The Grail Sword often symbolizes the knightly quest and the restoration of chivalric virtues.

Garel von dem blühenden Tal or “Garel of the Blossoming Valley,” is a medieval German romance written in verse. The romance is attributed to Der Pleier, who is a medieval German poet. It is estimated to have been composed between 1240 and 1270. Der Pleier is known for his contributions to Arthurian literature.

Garel von dem blühenden Tal is written in Middle High German, the literary language of medieval German literature. The story revolves around Sir Garel, a knight, who embarks on a series of quests. Quests are a common motif in Arthurian literature, representing the hero’s journey and the challenges he must overcome to prove his worthiness. These quests often involve encounters with magical beings, tests of courage, and the demonstration of knightly virtues.

Gauriel von Muntabel is a medieval German romance written in verse by Konrad von Stoffeln, composed in the late thirteenth century. Gauriel von Muntabel is written in Middle High German, the literary language of medieval German literature.

The story revolves around Sur Gauriel, a knight who must embark on a series of adventures in order to return to the graces of his fairy wife.

Geraint and Enid is a medieval Welsh prose narrative that adapts the same material found in Chrétien de Troyes’s Erec and Enide. It is estimated to have been composed in the thirteenth century.

While Chrétien’s original romance features the character Erec as the protagonist, the Welsh adaptation changes the hero’s name to Geraint. This renaming is a common feature in Arthurian literature as stories were adapted and localized in various cultures.

The surviving versions of Geraint and Enid are found in medieval Welsh manuscripts, which were important repositories of Welsh literature and legends.

Geraint filius Erbin, meaning “Geraint, son of Erbin,” is a Welsh poem believed to have been composed in the tenth or eleventh century.

The primary focus of the poem is Geraint, who is a prominent figure in Welsh literature and Arthurian legend. The poem tells of Geraint’s bravery and achievements, especially highlighting his role in the battle of Llongborth. This battle, also known as the Battle of Tryfrwyd, is a significant event in Welsh literature and Arthurian lore.

Gesta Regum Anglorum, translated to “Deeds of the Kings of England,” is a historical chronicle written by William of Malmesbury around 1125. It is written in Latin and covers the history of England from its legendary origins to the early twelfth century. William of Malmesbury, and English historian and monk, was known for his scholarly works, and the Gesta Regum Anglorum is one of his significant contributions.

In the context of Arthurian legend, the Gesta Regum Anglorum contains a brief mention of King Arthur. However, the information provided is limited, and it doesn’t delve deeply into the legendary aspects of Arthur’s story. Additionally, an interpolation within the chronicle includes a story about Yder and Glastonbury, a town in Somerset, is often associated with Arthurian legends, including the myths surrounding the burial of King Arthur and Queen Guenevere.

While William of Malmesbury’s primary focus was on historical events, his works occasionally incorporated elements of legend and folklore. The Gesta Regum Anglorum contributes to our understanding of medieval English history and the intersection of historical and legendary narratives during that period.

The Gesta Regum Britanniae or “Deeds of the Kings of Britain,” is a Latin work written in the mid-thirteenth century, and it is an adaptation of Geoffrey of Monmouth’s influential work, Historia Regum Britanniae (“History of the Kings of Britain”). Geoffrey’s Historia was a pseudo-historical chronicle that purported to recount the history of Britain from its legendary beginnings to the Norman Conquest.

The Gesta Regum Britanniae builds upon Geoffrey’s narrative, continuing the tradition of presenting a semi-legendary history of Britain. Geoffrey’s work, completed around 1138, was highly popular in the medieval period and played a significant role in shaping the Arthurian legend and British historiography.

Gismirante is an Italian verse romance written by Antonio Pucci, dating from the period of 1340-1380.

The narrative revolves around the character Gismirante, who embarks on an adventurous quest aimed at saving Arthur’s court from the threat of starvation.

Gliglois is an early thirteenth-century French verse romance that features Gawain, one of the renowned knights of the Round Table, and his squire, Gliglois. The narrative takes a romantic turn as both Gawain and Gliglois finds themselves enamored with the same woman. In the end, the lady makes a choice, favoring Gliglois over Gawain.

The theme of love triangels and romantic conflicts is a recurring motif in medieval romances, often exploring the complexities of courtly love and relationships within the Arthurian world.

Unfortunately, there is limited information available about this fragment. Gogulor is written in French verse, telling the story of a young knight who engages in a battle with a giant named Gogulor.

Medieval Arthurian romances often feature episodes of knights encountering giants, monsters, or other mythical creatures as part of their quests and adventures..

Golagros and Gawain is a Scottish romance written in the late fifteenth century The plot involves Arthur encountering the castle of Golagros and deciding to conquer it. Gawain takes on the task of conquering Golagros and succeeds in the endeavor.

Scottish Arthurian literature often has distinct characteristics and variations compared to the broader European tradition.