minnesingerid

Minnesingerid were poet-musicians of medieval Germany who flourished from the late 12th century to the early 14th century. Their name derives from the Old High German word "minne," meaning courtly love or affection. Minnesingerid were typically of noble birth, though some may have come from lower social strata, and they sang of chivalry, loyalty, and idealized love, often directed towards a noble lady whom they might never have met.

The tradition of Minnesang was heavily influenced by the Provençal troubadours, from whom they adopted many of their themes and poetic forms. Their songs, known as "Lieder," were typically sung in Middle High German and often accompanied by instruments such as the lute, harp, or fiddle. The themes explored in Minnesang ranged from the joys of love and beauty to the sorrows of unrequited affection and the transience of life.

Prominent Minnesingerid include Walther von der Vogelweide, considered the greatest of them all, Wolfram von Eschenbach, and Hartmann von Aue. Their works provide valuable insights into the social customs, values, and artistic sensibilities of the medieval German aristocracy. While the Golden Age of Minnesang waned with the decline of chivalry and the rise of new artistic forms, its legacy continued to influence German poetry and music for centuries. The surviving manuscripts, such as the Codex Manesse, are crucial sources for understanding this rich literary and musical tradition.