TNTL 111

Norris J. Lacy

Convention and Innovation in the Middle Dutch Walewein

Abstract - Measured by standards imported from Gallic romance, both the character and the adventures of Walewein prove striking. Whereas French romances often depicted Walewein's flaws and failures, the Middle Dutch narrators are resolute in their presentation of his inevitable successes even in the face of the dire consequences they predict for him. They thereby confirm his ability to prevail against all odds. Concomitantly, they transform or invert traditional Arthurian motifs, including the Perilous Seat (in the Dutch, a seat with protective powers), the Grail (corresponding to the chess set in the Dutch), and even Walewein's adventures, which become progressively more threatening even as he accomplishes them with increasing ease and an almost humorous nonchalance. The result is a thorough redefinition and renewal of Arthurian character and theme.