The Wate Figure in Medieval Tradition Contributor(s): Gillespie, Gerald (Editor), Winder MC Conell (Author) |
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ISBN: 3261030585 ISBN-13: 9783261030580 Publisher: Peter Lang Group Ag, International Academic P OUR PRICE: $40.80 Product Type: Paperback Published: December 1978 |
Additional Information |
BISAC Categories: - Language Arts & Disciplines - Literary Criticism | European - German - Literary Criticism | Semiotics & Theory |
Dewey: 809.933 |
LCCN: 78325555 |
Series: European University Papers: Series 18, Comparative Literatur |
Physical Information: 129 pages |
Descriptions, Reviews, Etc. |
Publisher Description: Utilizing both literary and extra-literary sources, the study considers all documented references to the Wate figure in the Middle Ages. Subsequent to a critical evaluation of research done on the figure in the years 1826-1974, an analysis is undertaken of Wate's role in prominent literary works of medieval Germany (e.g. Alexanderlied, Dietrichs Flucht), Scandinavia (The Thidrekssaga), and England. The examination of his function within the literary milieu demonstrates that Brobdingnagian traits are a fundamental aspect of Wate's character. The etymology of his name, as well as his appearance as a giant in folklore, provide further evidence of Wate's significance as the manifestation of a primitive growth concept. |