Tannhäuser (redirected from Tannhauser)

Tannhäuser (tän`hoizər), 13th cent., German minnesinger, whose adventurous wanderings became the subject of legend. Sixteen of his own lyrics are extant, including Buszlied (Song of Repentance). They indicate that he served several noble patrons and probably was a Crusader. In a 16th-century ballad, Tannhäuser escapes the snares of Venus with the help of Our Lady, but is refused papal absolution until the budding of his staff indicates divine grace. This story and that of his participation in a singing contest at the Wartburg are the materials for Wagner's opera Tannhäuser (1843–44). The story also figures in Swinburne's poem "Laus Veneris."

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Tannhäuser

(born c. 1200—died c. 1270) German lyric poet and legendary hero. A professional minnesinger, Tannhäuser served several noble patrons; a few of his works are extant. In the legend preserved in a popular ballad, “Danhauser,” he lives a life of pleasure but, torn by remorse, goes to Rome to seek remission of his sins. The pope tells him that, as his pilgrim's staff would never put on leaf again, so his sins can never be forgiven. Shortly afterward his discarded staff puts forth green leaves. The pope sends messengers to search for him, but he is never seen again. The legend, popular among 19th-century Romantic writers, was retold in Richard Wagner's opera Tannhäuser (produced 1845).

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Tannhäuser

unexpectedly absolved by the Pope for sinning in the Venusberg. [Ger. Myth.: Brewer Dictionary, 932]

See : Forgiveness

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Tannhäuser

as a sign that the Pope should absolve him, the papal scepter suddenly sprouts green leaves. [Ger. Myth.: Brewer Dictionary, 932]

See : Miracle

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Tannhäuser

seeking salvation, takes pilgrimage to Rome. [Ger. Opera: Wagner, Tannhauser, Westerman, 211]

See : Penitence