Virtue and Equality in the Medieval Latin <i>Ruodlieb</i>
Stefan Vander Elst
Virtue and Equality in the Medieval Latin Ruodlieb Stefan Vander Elst "Quidam prosapia vir progenitus generosa" [a certain man, born of noble family]1 is driven from his home because enmities he has incurred lord's service—so begins Ruodlieb, a work verse written circa 1050-10702 by monk Cluniac monastery Tegernsee Southern Germany. Accompanied only shield-bearer, horse, dog, finds refuge at court Greater King, who impressed with skill as hunter fisherman. When forces Lesser King invade King's lands, hero assists negotiating peace treaty rewarded both good advice treasure. Having decided to return take rightful place, becomes embroiled murder case, helps negotiate marriage cousin, foils thief, avoids an unfaithful lady, captures dwarf will lead him untold riches. There tale abruptly ends. The does not appear have been popular centuries following its composition, it come down us number fragments.3 Nevertheless interested scholars since discovery B. G. Docen 1803. critical response consequently broad surprisingly varied. seem be consensus on generic classification work.4 Some commented remarkable range literary sources draws on5 or sought possible historical allusions text.6 Others found parallels antecedents even more outlandish aspects work, such never trust redheads visit kinsmen too often.7 Peter Dronke drawn attention creation distinct poetic individuality text combination Germanic material epic form Aeneid,8 while others Haijo Westra fragmentary nature limited success, given fact that extant version most likely autograph.9 [End Page 1] Most attention, however, devoted Ruodlieb's supposed didactic purpose.10 Its message thought rest two central characters text, himself, are regarded model practitioners their professions. former, wholly merciful kind friend foe, considered representation ideal Christian kingship, perhaps drawing teachings Anselm Canterbury.11 throughout moves culture vengeance one negotiation forgiveness, read author's new, refined knighthood inclusive teaching.12 He described "primo eroe cortese"13 "new exemplar heroism."14 In this approach, served mirror for princes well early guide developing was intended educate young nobles schooled mores suitable social class.15 This reading dealing upper-class characters, discussing monarchic chivalric behavior, aimed audience noblemen, displays problematic aristocentrism. It bypasses populated inferior threatened standing, villagers, farmers, women, animals, share values ascribed chiefly generosity, defense defenseless. emphasis aristocracy ignores crucial work; I argue, sets out describe behavior all layers society, very much keeping directions Peace Truce God movements late tenth eleventh centuries. doing so rather than differentiates between classes; indeed, describes king townsman almost...
Essays in Medieval Studies