Ebook: Latin education and secular German literature : an analysis of Latin grammar instruction and its influence on Middle High German poets [thesis]

This dissertation traces the relationship between Latin grammar instruction and the rise of German literature from Carolingian times to 1300. In particular, it focuses on the thirteenth century and pinpoints pertinent aspects of this relationship using Der Welsche Gast of Thomasin von Zerclaere and Der Renner of Hugo von Trimberg as primary texts. With few exceptions, Middle High German poets acquired their literary skills from Latin grammar training. As a result, they possessed strong memories, an understanding of syntax and meter, knowledge of rhetorical figures, and critical judgment. These skills, in turn, influenced the manner in which they thought about and employed German as a literary medium. Vernacular grammars, wordlists, and literary catalogs attest to this fact, so too do the contents of Der Welsche Gast and Der Renner. The work habits of Thomasin and Hugo, together with the emphasis they place on wisdom, offer final confirmation of the important influence of Latin grammar instruction on German poets.