„fröude, fröude, fröude…! “

Wortklang als Medium in der Minnelyrik Gottfrieds von Neifen

Abstract

The elaborate outer form and the unique sound aesthetics involved are an essential characteristic of the MHG love songs (‘Minnelieder’) composed by Gottfried von Neifen. By analysing two stanzas of two different songs in detail, it becomes obvious that the specific sound of words is not only formal ornament, but can also function as a means to convey meaning. Thus, a song’s underlying message can either be supported in the sense of ‘presence’ (Gumbrecht), or it can be undermined.

Keywords Gottfried von Neifen; MHG Courtly Love Poetry; Sound; Euphony