Wolfram von Eschenbach 
Parzival 

Wolfram von Eschenbach’s ‘Parzival’ is a medieval German epic poem that follows the journey of the eponymous hero as he seeks the Holy Grail. Written in the early 13th century, the poem is a mix of adventure, romance, and chivalry, providing insights into the values and ideals of the medieval knightly class. Von Eschenbach’s literary style blends fantastical elements with moral allegories, making ‘Parzival’ a complex and layered work that rewards careful reading and analysis. The poem is considered a central masterpiece of Middle High German literature, influencing later works such as Wagner’s opera of the same name. Von Eschenbach’s narrative is rich with symbolism and medieval Christian beliefs, adding depth to the tale of Parzival’s quest for spiritual enlightenment and understanding. The author’s intricate use of language and dynamic characters make ‘Parzival’ a classic of medieval literature that continues to captivate readers to this day.

Over de auteur

Wolfram von Eschenbach (c. 1170 – c. 1220) was a German knight and poet, regarded as one of the greatest epic poets of medieval Germany. His most famous work, ‘Parzival’ (circa 1200-1210), is a rich and complex Arthurian romance that continues to captivate readers with its depth of insight into the human condition and its exploration of the concept of chivalry. Little is known of Wolfram’s life, but it is believed he hailed from the town of Eschenbach in Bavaria, and his writings suggest he was not formally educated, yet possessed an extensive knowledge of literature, theology, and law, acquired through personal inquiry and experience. ‘Parzival’ stands as a testament to his literary genius, offering a unique blend of Christian and Eastern mysticism, knightly adventure, and philosophical musings, which reflect a transitional period in European history. Unlike his contemporaries, Wolfram favored intuition over the scholarly traditions, and his idiosyncratic style—marked by inventive narrative techniques and intricate characterizations—has left a lasting mark on the Western literary canon (Green, 1980).