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This study provides a much needed re-evaluation of the role of pain and suffering in Hartmann von Aue. By critically and carefully combining traditional philology with modern theoretical analysis, drawing on theorists such as Mary Douglas, Michele Foucault, Norbert Elias and Elaine Scarry, the author shows how the 'body' is symbolically structured in Hartmann's work to create a distinctly medieval signification system of pain. This system is analysed through an examination of the physical body and social body of the court, and the harmonious and refined image of courtly society as depicted in Hartmann's work where it is shown that the very ideological system that informs courtly life causes suffering in both the physical and social bodies.
List of contents
Introduction; Chapter 1 The Body in Pain; Chapter 2 es tete im an dem lîbe wê: The Physical Body in Pain in Hartmann von Aue; Chapter 3 mîn vleiscb ist sô unreine: The Male Body in Pain in Gregorius and the Arme Heinrich; Chapter 4 vil wîplîchen si dô leit: The Female Body in Pain; Chapter 5 ouwê, diz vole ist starke unvrô: The Social Body and Pain in Hartmann von Aue’s Works; Conclusion: nâch disem ellende. / hie hât diz liet ein ende;
About the author
Scott E. Pincikowski
Summary
This study provides a much needed re-evaluation of the role of pain and suffering in Hartmann von Aue. By critically and carefully combining traditional philology with modern theoretical analysis, drawing on theorists such as Mary Douglas, Michele Foucault, Norbert Elias and Elaine Scarry, the author shows how the 'body' is symbolically structured in Hartmann's work to create a distinctly medieval signification system of pain. This system is analysed through an examination of the physical body and social body of the court, and the harmonious and refined image of courtly society as depicted in Hartmann's work where it is shown that the very ideological system that informs courtly life causes suffering in both the physical and social bodies.
