Der arme Heinrich: Analysis of Major Characters
"Der arme Heinrich" is a narrative poem by Heinrich von Aue that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption through the lens of its major characters. The protagonist, Heinrich, is a wealthy and noble knight who embodies the ideals of chivalry and honor until he is struck by the devastating illness of leprosy. In his quest for a cure, he learns that he must find a virgin willing to sacrifice her life force out of love for him. A peasant girl, who is deeply touched by Heinrich's plight, offers her heart's blood as a means to restore him to health, motivated by her compassion and the promise of eternal life. However, when the moment of sacrifice arrives, Heinrich is unable to accept her offering, ultimately leading to a miraculous healing through divine grace. The story culminates in Heinrich and the peasant girl marrying, celebrated by their community. This poignant tale illustrates the complexities of human emotions and the interplay between social class and personal sacrifice, making it a compelling exploration of medieval values and the human condition.
Der arme Heinrich: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Hartmann von Aue
Genre: Poetry
Locale: Germany
Plot: Didactic
Time: Late twelfth century
Heinrich von Aue (HIN-rihsh fon OW-eh), a Swabian knight. He is wealthy, handsome, and of noble birth; purity and honor are the marks of his life; and fulfillment of the obligations of knighthood is his goal. Suddenly, all is changed by the terrible knowledge that he is a leper. In search of a remedy, he finally learns that his only cure lies in finding a virgin who, out of love, will yield her heart's blood. When a peasant girl begs Heinrich to allow her to make the sacrifice, he gives in to her pleas, but at the moment before the operation, he cannot accept her offering. On the way home, God's healing grace restores Heinrich to health. He and the girl are wed amid the rejoicings of his people.
A peasant girl, the daughter of the family with whom Heinrich lives as a leper. Deeply moved by Heinrich's suffering, and for the eternal life that will be her reward, she willingly offers her heart's blood for his cure. After the knight's refusal of her sacrifice and his miraculous cure, she and Heinrich are married.