Walther von der Vogelweide

Walther von der Vogelweide (c. 1170 – c. 1230) is the most celebrated Middle High German lyric poet. He wrote primarily in the Minnesang tradition, but also wrote other poems in other genres. He is known for his innovative and unique style of poetry.

His non-Minnesang poems often incorporate political messages, which reveal a great deal about their author's deep-held personal convictions. He was a devoted patriot who proudly supported the dream of German unity and independence. Although he was a devout Catholic, he was an ardent critic of papal authority. He supported the Crusades, but remained highly respectful towards Jews and Muslims.

His most notable poems include "Under der linden," "Elegie," and the Palästinalied. He continues to have a profound impact on German literature and poetry even today.

For all his fame, Walther's name is not found in contemporary records, with the exception of a solitary mention in the travelling accounts of Bishop Wolfger of Erla of the Passau diocese: "Walthero cantori de Vogelweide pro pellicio v solidos longos"--"To Walther the singer of the Vogelweide five shillings for a fur coat." The main sources of information about him are his own poems and occasional references by contemporary Minnesingers. He was a knight, but probably not a wealthy or landed one. His surname, von der Vogelweide, suggests that he had no grant of land, since die Vogelweide ("the bird-pasture") seems to refer to a general geographic feature, not a specific place. He probably was knighted for military bravery and was a retainer in a wealthy, noble household before beginning his travels.

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