Parzival: Reading Questions


Everyone must turn in answers to one set of reading questions on Parzival. If you turn in more than one, the extra grades will be applied first to replacing any zeros in the "shorter assignments" category, and then to replacing any low grades. However, no more than three sets of Parzival reading question will be graded. If you wish to turn in additional sets, just for writing practice, I will be glad to comment on them for you.

Books 1 and 2 (pp. 15-69).

When questions involve the plot, do not feel that you have to mention every possible detail. Give enough information to make the most important events clear, just as you would do if you were trying to tell someone the story. When questions ask "how are we supposed to feel" or "what are we supposed to think," be sure to give evidence for your answer.

1. Write a brief character sketch of Gahmuret. What kind of a man is he? What are his strengths and weaknesses, good qualities and bad qualities? Compare him to Erec, Iwein, or some of the characters from the Nibelungenlied, if that is useful.

2. Why does Gahmuret leave Belacane? How are we supposed to feel about his doing this?

3. Why does Gahmuret marry Herzeloyde, even though he is already married to Belacane? How are we supposed to feel about this? Does it make him guilty of bigamy and adultery? Or does his marriage to Belacane somehow not count? How are we supposed to feel about Herzeloyde for pursuing him so aggressively and demanding that he marry her?

4. What takes Gahmuret away from Herzeloyde and to his death? A sense of duty and obligation to the Baruc, or simply lust for adventure? Are we supposed to regard him as an Iwein, neglecting his marriage for knightly pursuits, or would staying at home when his lord needed him have made him an Erec?
 
 
 

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