Der arme Heinrich
(Poor Henry) is a Middle High German verse narrative written by Hartmann von Aue, one of the most prominent German poets of the High Middle Ages. Composed around 1195, the story revolves around a wealthy and respected knight, Henry, who is struck by leprosy as punishment for his pride. He learns from doctors that he can only be cured by the heart's blood of a young virgin who must willingly sacrifice herself for him. A young peasant girl offers to do so out of compassion and religious conviction. The narrative explores themes of divine justice, redemption, humility, and the nature of true love and sacrifice. "Der arme Heinrich" is valued for its elegant style, complex characters, and its profound exploration of medieval religious and social values. It remains a significant work of Middle High German literature and continues to be studied for its literary and historical value.
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