Der Weiß Kunig

The White King; or,

The Life and Reign of Emperor Maximilian I

 

  

 

 

To the left, we show a rare copy of Der Weiß Kunig published

in Vienna by Kurzböck in 1775.

 

This example retains a non-contemporary, but antique, binding

with gold-stamped leather cover.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On the right is shown the title page, with the

stamp indicating this copy was formerly held

by V. Rhedigersch Stadt-Bibliothek Zu Breslau.

 

Der Weiß Kunig - literally translated as The White King - was prepared in the 16th Century in an apparent collaboration

between at least four artists: Leonard Beck (1480-1542); Hans Burgkmair (1473-1531); Hans Schäuffelein (1480-1540);

and Hans Springinklee (1490-1540). Bartsch notes that at least 99 of the plates may be attributed to Burgkmair, at least

two further may be attributed to Beck (Plates 39 and 78), and one each to Springinklee and Schäuffelein.

 

Jost Dienecker (also known as Jost de Neeker) is among the artisans thought to have worked as engravers on the work. Also known as The Life and Reign of Emperor Maximilian I, Der Weiß Kunig purports to provide a chronicle of the life of the Emperor.

 

Der Weiß Kunig was written by Marx Treitzsaurwein following suggestions and dictation provided directly by Emperor Maximilian I. The allegorical styling of the Emperor as The White King arose from a variety of sources, including the clear symbolic correlations between 'white' and 'wisdom' and the traditional white harness Emperor Maximilian I carried in tournaments and battles. Other rulers are also represented allegorically throughout Der Weiß Kunig, including the King of France (The Blue King), the Duke of Milan (The King of the Worm - a reference drawn from the Milanese coat of arms), and the King of Hungary (The Green King).

 

The allegorical tale is told in three parts: the first deals with previous Habsburg rulers; the second with the birth and early life of Maximilian (through to his marriage to

Maria von Burgund); and the third with the rule of Emperor Maximilian I. For the first two elements, Treitzsaurwein drew on a variety of historical sources, but for the third,

 

Above, we show an antique

painting of Emperor Maximilian I

by Albrect Dürer.

relied upon direct comment from the Emperor. The third portion of Der Weiß Kunig,

therefore, has value as a source document for the era.

 

The woodblocks used in Der Weiß Kunig were carved in the first two decades of the 16th Century, but were not published

prior to the Emperor's death. In 1665, the manuscript was rediscovered in Schloss Ambras and a century later, the woodcuts

were rediscovered in Graz. Kurzböck's famous publication of the text and woodcuts followed in 1775 - after more than

200 years of the whole work being thought lost.

 

Despite the propagandist intent and the somewhat romanticised imagery within Der Weiß Kunig, the illustrations provide

a valuable and intriguing insight into late-Medieval and early-Renaissance Court life and the costumes, housewares,

weaponry and architecture of the period.

 

 

Our Greeting Cards and Fine Art Prints

 

 

For connoisseurs, we have prepared sets of 237 Greeting Cards displaying each of the images shown on the illustrated plates throughout Der Weiß Kunig. Ordering one of those sets is as easy as selecting the "Add to Cart" feature below and following the prompts provided with our Shopping Cart secured through PayPal. Multiple purchases will be consolidated by that feature and shipping and handling costs to any destination in the world are accommodated by our flat-rate fee of US$20 for every US$200 worth of purchases.

 

 

Code: WK CS(237)
Price: US$1185.00

 

When presented on Greeting Cards, these images are prepared as tipped-on plates -

in hommage to the hand-crafted approach typical of prestige illustrated publications

produced in the early decades of the 20th Century. Each card is hand-finished and

the images are presented on White card stock with an accompanying envelope. The

rear of each card carries information about this wonderful suite and the profiled

illustration - we have left the interior of the cards blank so that you may write your

own personal message.

 

Should you wish to order a reproduction print of one or more of these images,

we have provided some options below in a superb 20x30" format. Each of our

Fine Art Posters is prepared with archival quality papers and inks - and also

accompanied by information about this suite and the profiled illustration.

 

To purchase, simply click on the appropriate "Add to Cart" button and you will be

taken through to our Shopping Cart secured through PayPal. Multiple purchases will

be consolidated by that feature and shipping and handling costs to any destination

in the world are accommodated by our flat-rate fee of US$20 for every US$200

worth of purchases.

 

An example of one of our Fine Art Posters

in a superb 20x30" format

 

Of course, should you wish to discuss some customised options, we welcome your contact on any matter through

ThePeople@SpiritoftheAges.com.

 

In the meantime, however, enjoy perusing the plates from Der Weiß Kunig and other related information we are

able to present about this fabulous work.

 

 

The plates from Der Weiß Kunig

 

Due, in part, to the manner in which the illustrations and text for Der Weiß Kunig were separated - both in location and

time - some difficulties have been identified (as noted by Bartsch) in identifying the correct interleaving for the work.

Various approaches may be taken to reconstructing what may be termed the "best fit" between script and illustrations, but

we have chosen to show them in an order similar to that specified in the Ordnung der Figuren (Order of Illustrations)

published in 1775 (this results in a non-sequential progression of the numbered Chapters in Part 3 of the work, in addition

to variations from chronological order, but ensures the presentation for the 1775 edition). In doing so, we also show the

Chapters with which the illustrations appear to be associated. Below each of the illustrations, we have identified the

relevant Part, Chapter and identified date, in addition to providing our own English translation of the Chapter Title. It

should be noted that the final 12 illustrations bound with the 1775 were not associated with any particular Chapter, but,

instead, were provided with individual descriptive titles in the Ordnung der Figuren.

 

As you peruse these illustrations, you may also like to read Bartsch's Introduction to the 1775 edition of Der Weiß Kunig,

Treitzsaurwein's Foreword or gain an overview of topics canvassed within the work by reading the Chapter titles to

that edition.

 

Foreword

Der Weiß Kunig is dedicated to the heirs

to the Habsburg throne

(1)

Part 1

Chapter 1

1450

The Old White King skillfully drafts a

message seeking a consort.

(2)

Part 1

Chapter 2

1450

How the Old White King's message came to

the King, the young Queen was summoned

and as the offer is considered, the

Embassy waits for a favourable response.

(3)

Part 1

Chapter 2

1451

How the Old White King's message came to

the King, the young Queen was summoned

and as the offer is considered, the

Embassy waits for a favourable response.

(4)

 

 

Part 1

Chapter 3

1451

How the same King from whom the message

issued stood and took advice before deciding

on the marriage.

(5)

Part 1

Chapter 4

1451

How the Old White King leaves the

Kingdom to meet his consort and

journey to Rome where he will be

anointed as Holy Roman Emperor.

(6)

 

 

Part 1

Chapter 5

1452

How the young Queen Eleanor, lately of

the Kingdom of Portugal and the land of

the Moor, takes her place as consort

to the Old White King.

(7)

 

Part 1

Chapter 5

1452

How the young Queen Eleanor, lately of

the Kingdom of Portugal and the land of

the Moor, takes her place as consort

to the Old White King.

(8)

 

 

Part 1

Chapter 6

1452

How the Old White King traveled to the

Pope's land with his consort to be married

and was greeted warmly by the great

masses of the population of Rome.

(9)

 

 

Part 1

Chapter 7

1452

How our Holy Father the Pope,

the Old White King and the Queen

first exchanged greetings.

(10)

Part 1

Chapter 8

1452

How our Holy Father the Pope married

the Old White King and the Queen according

to the Orders of the Christian Church.

(11)

Part 1

Chapter 9

1452

How our Holy Father the Pope

crowned the Old White King

as Holy Roman Emperor.

(12)

Part 1

Chapter 10

1452

How our Holy Father the Pope

crowned the Queen.

(13)

Part 1

Chapter 10

1452

How our Holy Father the Pope

crowned the Queen.

(14)

Part 1

Chapter 11

1452

How our Holy Father the Pope, the

Old White King and the Queen proceeded

from the Cathedral following the ceremony

and continued with unending happiness.

(15)

 

 

Part 2

Chapter 14

1459

How the Queen gave birth to a son.

(16)

Part 2

Chapter 15

1459

How the child was baptized with

God's praise.

(17)

Part 2

Chapter 16

1459

How, after baptism and achieving the

divine office, that same divine child

received benedictions.

(18)

 

 

Part 2

Chapter 17

How the Old White King introduced his

young son to the Nobleboys to float

among them briefly.

(19)

Part 2

Chapter 18

How the Old White King admitted

his son to individual tutelage under

a Master scholar.

(20)

 

 

Part 2

Chapter 19

How the Young White King taught

himself to write.

(21)

Part 2

Chapter 20

How the Young White King gained expertise

in the seven liberal arts within a short time.

(22)

Part 2

Chapter 21

How the Young White King contemplated

ancient traditions and gained expert

knowledge of the Universe.

(23)

 

 

Part 2

Chapter 22

How the Young White King learned

art of Astrology.

(24)

Part 2

Chapter 23

How the Young White King learned

the Black Arts.

(25)

Part 2

Chapter 24

How the Young White King had a particular

love of recording his memories.

(26)

 

 

Part 2

Chapter 26

How the Young White King learned

the duties of the Official Secretary.

(27)

Part 2

Chapter 27

The Young White King's compassion.

(28)

Part 2

Chapter 27

The Young White King's compassion.

(29)

Part 2

Chapter 28

How the Young White King learned Bohemian

and Windisch dialects from the farmer.

(30)

Part 2

Chapter 29

How the Young White King learned painting.

(31)

Part 2

Chapter 30

How the Young White King learned

stonemason skills.

(32)

 

 

Part 2

Chapter 31

How the Young White King learned

carpentry skills.

(33)

Part 2

Chapter 32

How the Young White King learned

music and to play stringed instruments.

(34)

Part 2

Chapter 33

How the Young White King learned

to recognise all foods.

(35)

Part 2

Chapter 34

How the Young White King, so attired, was

before all other Kings at the Masked Ball.

(36)

 

 

Part 2

Chapter 35

How the Young White King gained

expertise at the Mint.

(37)

 

 

Part 2

Chapter 37

How the Young White King learned to use a

handbow by shooting at birds and pheasants.

(38)

Part 2

Chapter 38

How the Young White King learned to shoot

with a crossbow and steelbow.

(39)

Part 2

Chapter 38

How the Young White King learned to shoot

with a crossbow and steelbow.

(40)

Part 2

Chapter 39

How the Young White King enjoyed

Falconry.

(41)

Part 2

Chapter 40

How the Young White King enjoyed

hunting Deer, Chamois, Wild Pig and

Boar with the Pack.

(42)

Part 2

Chapter 40

How the Young White King enjoyed

hunting Deer, Chamois, Wild Pig and

Boar with the Pack.

(43)

 

 

Part 2

Chapter 41

How the Young White King delighted

in fishing.

(44)

Part 2

Chapter 43

How the Young White King was

masterful in bare Zusechten.

('Zusechten' is a technical term for the first

phase of Longsword combat - the 'bare'

qualification indicates the combat

proceeded without armour)

(45)

 

 

Part 2

Chapter 44

How the Young White King had learned

to fight with the Bohemian Pavise and

the Hussar Targe.

(46)

 

 

Part 2

Chapter 45

How the Young White King fought

masterfully in armour.

(47)

Part 2

Chapter 47

How the Young White King learned to

recognise the accoutrements of a Knight

and his horse.

(48)

Part 2

Chapter 48

How the Young White King gained

expertise in the fabrication of Armour

in the Armoury.

(49)

Part 2

Chapter 49

How the Young White King gained

expertise in the construction of Artillery.

(50)

Part 2

Chapter 50

How the Young White King gained

particular expertise with Wagon Forts.

(51)

Part 2

Chapter 51

1473

How a powerful ruler, the Fire Iron King,

had a daughter whom the Old White King

considered desirable.

(52)

 

 

Part 2

Chapter 52

1473

How the Old White King and the

Fire Iron King came together

to arrange a marriage between their

children.

(53)

Part 2

Chapter 53

1474

How the Fire Iron King invaded the

realm with troops and the Old White King

went against him in war.

(54)

Part 2

Chapter 54

1475-1477

How the King of France formed an alliance

including many princes and men to make war

against the Fire Iron King and in the conflict

that followed, the Fire Iron King died.

(55)

 

 

Part 2

Chapter 55

1477

How the Fire Iron King died

and was buried with the prayers of

the Old and Young Queens.

(56)

Part 2

Chapter 56

1477

How the Old and Young Fire Iron Queens

convened a Council to send a proposal for

marriage between the Young Queen and

the son of the Old White King.

(57)

Part 2

Chapter 57

1477

How the Young White King and

his father received the Embassy

conveying the message from the

Young Fire Iron Queen.

(58)

Part 3

Chapter 58

1477

How the Young White King

represented his father to the

Green King.

(59)

Part 3

Chapter 60

1477

How the Old White King made deft

arrangements for the marriage of his son,

the Young White King, and the

Young Queen.

(60)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 61

1477

How the Young White King came to join

the Young Queen and their forthcoming

marriage was welcomed.

(61)

Part 3

Chapter 61

1477

How the Young White King came to join

the Young Queen and their forthcoming

marriage was welcomed.

(62)

Part 3

Chapter 61

1477

How the Young White King came to join

the Young Queen and their forthcoming

marriage was welcomed.

(63)

Part 3

Chapter 62

1477

How the Young White King and the

Young Fire Iron Queen were joined

together in marriage.

(64)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 63

1477

How the marriage was performed and

accompanied by glorious displays of Rennin,

Stechen and other Knightly pursuits.

(Rennin and Stechen are elements

of the medieval tournament)

(65)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 64

1477

How the Young White King and the

Young Queen learned to communicate.

(66)

Part 3

Chapter 65

1477

How the Young White King learned Flemish.

(67)

Part 3

Chapter 66

1477

How the Young White King learned English.

(68)

Part 3

Chapter 67

1477

How the Young White King learned Spanish.

(69)

Part 3

Chapter 68

1477

How the Young White King learned Italian.

(70)

Part 3

Chapter 69

1477

How the Young White King learned to speak

the seven languages with the assistance of

seven Captains.

(71)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 70

1478

How the Blue King responded to the marriage

of the Young White King with aggressive

warfare and the Young White King prepared

to drive him out of the land.

(72)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 71

1478

How the Blue King went against the

Young White King within the realm and

the Young White King opposed him.

(73)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 72

1478

How the Blue King heard of a local custom

of holding celebrations in honour of the

marriage of the Young White King.

(74)

Part 3

Chapter 74

1478

Hereafter, the Young White King returned

home from the war with substantial honours

and his wife gave him a son.

(75)

Part 3

Chapter 80

1479

How the Young White King joined the

Blue King on the battlefield and the

Young White King held the ground and

won the battle.

(76)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 81

1479

 

(77)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 86

1480

 

(78)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 93

1483

 

(79)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 94

1483

 

(80)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 98

1483

 

(81)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 150

1492

 

(82)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 150

1492

 

(83)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 150

1492

 

(84)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 150

1492

 

(85)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 87

1482

 

(86)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 99

1484

 

(87)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 99

1484

 

(88)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 100

1484

 

(89)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 101

1484

 

(90)

Part 3

Chapter 101

1484

 

(91)

Part 3

Chapter 102

1484

 

(92)

Part 3

Chapter 103

1484

 

(93)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 105

1485

 

(94)

Part 3

Chapter 107

1485

 

(95)

Part 3

Chapter 109

1485

 

(96)

Part 3

Chapter 110

1485

 

(97)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 111

1485

 

(98)

Part 3

Chapter 112

1485

 

(99)

Part 3

Chapter 113

1485

 

(100)

Part 3

Chapter 114

1485

 

(101)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 114

1485

 

(102)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 114

1485

 

(103)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 114

1485

 

(104)

Part 3

Chapter 116

1482

 

(105)

Part 3

Chapter 116

1482

 

(106)

Part 3

Chapter 88

1482

 

(107)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 89

1482

 

(108)

Part 3

Chapter 117

1478

 

(109)

Part 3

Chapter 76

1478

 

(110)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 78

1478

 

(111)

Part 3

Chapter 78

1478

 

(112)

Part 3

Chapter 79

1478

 

(113)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 79

1478

 

(114)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 84

1479

 

(115)

Part 3

Chapter 85

1479

 

(116)

Part 3

Chapter 85

1479

 

(117)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 96

1483

 

(118)

Part 3

Chapter 97

1484

 

(119)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 118

1485

 

(120)

Part 3

Chapter 158

1494 – 1495

 

(121)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 158

1494 – 1495

 

(122)

Part 3

Chapter 160

1495 – 1496

 

(123)

Part 3

Chapter 160

1495 – 1496

 

(124)

Part 3

Chapter 123

1486

 

(125)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 123

1488

 

(126)

Part 3

Chapter 123

1488

 

(127)

Part 3

Chapter 128

1488

 

(128)

Part 3

Chapter 129

1488

 

(129)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 130

1488

 

(130)

Part 3

Chapter 124

1488

 

(131)

Part 3

Chapter 131

1485 – 1491

 

(132)

Part 3

Chapter 131

1485 – 1491

 

(133)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 120

1485 – 1502

 

(134)

Part 3

Chapter 125

1487 – 1493

 

(135)

Part 3

Chapter 125

1487 – 1493

 

(136)

Part 3

Chapter 132

1488 – 1489

 

(137)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 133

1488

 

(138)

Part 3

Chapter 134

1488

 

(139)

Part 3

Chapter 135

1488

 

(140)

Part 3

Chapter 135

1488

 

(141)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 136

1488

 

(142)

Part 3

Chapter 139

1488

 

(143)

Part 3

Chapter 91

1482 – 1485

 

(144)

Part 3

Chapter 92

1482 – 1485

 

(145)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 122

1485

 

(146)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 140

1488

 

(147)

Part 3

Chapter 143

1489 – 1492

 

(148)

Part 3

Chapter 143

1489 – 1492

 

(149)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 144

1489

 

(150)

Part 3

Chapter 144

1489

 

(151)

Part 3

Chapter 144

1489

 

(152)

Part 3

Chapter 144

1489

 

(153)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 146

1490

 

(154)

 

Part 3

Chapter 146

1490

 

(155)

Part 3

Chapter 147

1490

 

(156)

Part 3

Chapter 147

1490

 

(157)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 148

1491

 

(158)

Part 3

Chapter 148

1491

 

(159)

Part 3

Chapter 149

1491

 

(160)

Part 3

Chapter 149

1491

 

(161)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 149

1491

 

(162)

Part 3

Chapter 145

1489

 

(163)

Part 3

Chapter 145

1489

 

(164)

Part 3

Chapter 152

1492 – 1493

 

(165)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 156

1493

 

(166)

Part 3

Chapter 156

1493

 

(167)

Part 3

Chapter 153

1492

 

(168)

Part 3

Chapter 153

1492

 

(169)

Part 3

Chapter 153

1492

 

(170)

Part 3

Chapter 155

1493 – 1494

 

(171)

 

Part 3

Chapter 161

1494 – 1496

 

(172)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 162

1494 – 1496

How the Young White King and the Army

joined the Princes and, in doing so, increased

the glory of the Kingdom.

(173)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 163

1496

 

(174)

Part 3

Chapter 163

1496

 

(175)

Part 3

Chapter 165

1498

 

(176)

Part 3

Chapter 166

1498

 

(177)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 168

1498

 

(178)

Part 3

Chapter 175

1498 – 1499

 

(179)

Part 3

Chapter 176

1499

 

(180)

Part 3

Chapter 177

1499

 

(181)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 182

1499

 

(182)

Part 3

Chapter 170

1499

 

(183)

Part 3

Chapter 170

1499

 

(184)

Part 3

Chapter 172

1498

 

(185)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 184

1500

 

(186)

Part 3

Chapter 184

1500

 

(187)

Part 3

Chapter 184

1500

 

(188)

Part 3

Chapter 185

1500

 

(189)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 174

1498 – 1501

 

(190)

Part 3

Chapter 174

1498 – 1501

 

(191)

Part 3

Chapter 174

1498 – 1501

 

(192)

Part 3

Chapter 187

1503

 

(193)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 207

1506 – 1508

 

(194)

Part 3

Chapter 188

1503 – 1504

 

(195)

Part 3

Chapter 188

1503 – 1504

 

(196)

Part 3

Chapter 189

1504

 

(197)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 192

1504

 

(198)

Part 3

Chapter 193

1505 – 1508

 

(199)

Part 3

Chapter 194

1499

How the White King left the Green Kingdom

having suffered a loss of authority.

(200)

Part 3

Chapter 194

1499

How the White King left the Green Kingdom

having suffered a loss of authority.

(201)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 194

1499

How the White King left the Green Kingdom

having suffered a loss of authority.

(202)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 198

1508

 

(203)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 199

1508

 

(204)

Part 3

Chapter 199

1508

 

(205)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 199

1508

 

(206)

Part 3

Chapter 200

1509

 

(207)

Part 3

Chapter 202

1509

 

(208)

Part 3

Chapter 203

1509

 

(209)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 203

1509

 

(210)

Part 3

Chapter 203

1509

 

(211)

Part 3

Chapter 205

1509

 

(212)

Part 3

Chapter 206

1509

 

(213)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 209

1510 – 1512

 

(214)

Part 3

Chapter 210

1511

 

(215)

Part 3

Chapter 210

1511

 

(216)

Part 3

Chapter 213

1512

 

(217)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 213

1512

 

(218)

Part 3

Chapter 214

1512

 

(219)

Part 3

Chapter 216

1513

 

(220)

Part 3

Chapter 216

1511 – 1513

 

(221)

 

 

Part 3

Chapter 218

1513

 

(222)

Part 3

Chapter 218

1513

 

(223)

Part 3

Chapter 218

1513

 

(224)

Part 3

Chapter 221

1513

 

(225)

 

 

 

(226)

 

(227)

 

(228)

 

(229)

 

 

 

(230)

The perilous sea voyage undertaken

by Philip and Joanna.

(231)

 

 

 

(232)

 

(233)

 

 

 

(234)

 

(235)

 

(236)
     

 

(237)

 

 

      

 

 

 

Return to the plates

 

 

Bartsch's Introduction to Der Weiß Kunig (1775)

 

English Translation

While it may appear that the association between the illustrations and text within this work are clear, such links have become distorted during the time when both were mysteriously consigned to darkness and the memory of them was lost to the World. Now they are brought together – images and contemporary heroic tales of Maximilian that show he was unique in his skill at rising above the difficulties of his time and establishing the foundations of society for future generations. His character differed so significantly from other great Emperors and monarchs – in that his life and reign was a continuum of great enterprises – that it is well justified to bring so memorable a history to the masses.

 

What patriot would dare not foster an ongoing remembrance of this beloved and industrious Emperor? In Maximilian's youth, the Habsburgs had little knowledge of Germany. The time came, however, when enemies pushed deep into the heart of the Empire and calls went out to the first German settlers to provide greater support to the Austrian throne and extend the range of its triumphant military influence. With the return of strength that followed, those who were formerly under a hostile yoke were released and the Emperor created the largest Austrian kingdom – including the Danube, Rhine, Tagus and Po rivers. In such circumstances, what obstacle could stand in the way of the development of the mythical tale of the founder of the Habsburg throne?

 

To date, repeated efforts towards such a work have been made, only to meet a fruitless end. Similarly, the actual history of the period remains largely unknown, even among scholars. Despite this, if the purported facts seem to have sufficient import towards providing a foundation, then history may be rewritten and thus, have an effect on all that has stood before. As a contemporary document, this work has just such a claim to validly contribute to our historical knowledge.

 

Indisputably, one knows that the author of this work relied foremost on the Emperor for details, for it was only his spirit that knew the terrible sound of war and the industry of his government. Maximilian knew no rest, but would dedicate himself to science, was creative with his hands, led with the Scepter, wrote secretly with the Cabinet to undertake works within the realm, composed War histories and improved his understanding and conduct of warfare to the point where peace was brought to his army. Those efforts are detailed in the history of the White King to the year 1512, with further tales following of the events in subsequent years.

 

In the year 1514, the work was thought to be complete and the Imperial Secretary, Marx Treitzsauerwein, was ordered by the Emperor to bring the text into order. That instruction applied to both the Manuscript 1 and the associated illustrations 2. It was at that time that it became apparent that a certain disorder and indistinct quality was present in the text arising from the manner in which it had been drafted. Those difficulties required further effort to finalize the composition of the book.3 Various discussions and redrafts were undertaken 4 – based on presumptions and some incorrect interpretations – but the Emperor remained distracted by important business and increasing age and was unable to return to the task of finalizing or publishing this work before his death.

 

It is understandable that in the time that has passed since the reign of Emperor Maximilian, there may be some difficulty in correctly interpreting his incomplete or unpublished works. To choose to abandon such a task, however, would be to do an inconceivable disservice to our ancestors who have laboured to commit these tales so the World may enjoy them throughout the ages.

 

In the 17th Century, such an effort arose from the substantial body of work produced by eminent Austrian Philologist, Reichard Strein (Baron to Schwarzenau). Among his papers was a locos communes that he had prepared for a book about the White King.

 

Although Strein's work remained unpublished before his death, interest was maintained in the preparation of a great work on the White King. Those notes that Strein left among his papers are believed to have come into the possession of Father Georg Christoph von Schallenberg – a scholarly man whom Strein's appreciative friends entrusted with his work.

 

Schallenberg had the good luck in 1631 to discover a collection of most illustrations designed to accompany the history of the White King during a stay in Vienna. That collection consisted, in part, of the woodcut prints, in addition to original designs. 5 He also found some pieces in the Emperor's own handwriting among those papers. It could be argued that collection was so significant that, even if it had not been for the text of the White King, those notes may have been used to reconstruct the history illustrated by the artwork of Burgkmair and his contemporaries. Through assiduous work on this material, he prepared significant notes towards constructing a history of the White King, but even when added to Strein's previous work, Schallenberg considered the material imperfect.

 

Shallenberg had intended to prepare a complete catalogue of Maximilian's works, but this goal remained unfulfilled at the time of his death. With further research and collection work to be undertaken, his son was left with his title and the opportunity to pursue the publication of the history of the White King, but it seemed as if that great goal had died with Shallenberg.

 

One cannot say whether, after Schallenberg's death, another scholar had a similar passion for the White King, but the work was not completely unknown to literature – with some comments about it being made in scholarly reviews and biographies. In the meantime, however, the Treitzsaurwein Manuscript remained with others at the Imperial Library.

 

It was little short of a miracle when the woodblocks for the White King were discovered in Gratz (in the Duchy of Steyr). Held within the large collection of a connoisseur, they were at risk of damage – which had occurred in some cases – and the announcement was made that they would be brought to the Imperial Library. Now, the conditions were satisfied for the finalisation and publication of this major Imperial work.

 

That the text of this history should have extensive associated notes is of significant import to the historical value of the work. With such a feature, we may now learn of events that were historical secrets unknown to contemporaneous writers. Finally, there is sufficient knowledge to write with historical certainty of the life and achievements of Maximilian. 

 

 

 

 

1 This manuscript was later held among the treasures in Castle Ambras (Tyrol)  before coming to the Imperial Library where it was catalogued as Hist. Prof. N. XVI.

2 The illustrations and woodcuts intended to accompany the Manuscript were designed by Hans Burgkmair and other masters. Over time, significant confusion has developed as to the intended presentation of that artwork as is also the case with the text.

3 Cod. Bibl. Cæs. Ms. Hist. Prof. N. XVIII.

4 Cod. Bibl. Cæs. Ms. Hist. Prof. N. XIX. in addition to CXLIV. and CLV. They may also be found under the general category M. XX. MAXIMILIANI.

 

5 The Codex including Schallenberg's notes is now in the hands of a worthy custodian, Paul Anton von Gundel, Secretary to the Imperial records and a  Knight of the Order of St Stephan.

Modern German Translation

So deutlich die in diesem Werke vorkommenden Erzeugen bei ihr erstehen er Sendung mögen gelautet haben, even so ties verzog sich ihr Vortrag ins Finstere einer geheimnisvoll Dunkelheit, nach dem sich gemacht die Gegenstande ihres Inhaltes aus dem Andenken der Welt verloren hatten. Und nun sind sie zusammen eine Ausgabe, derer Auslosung einer so spaten Nachwelt noch unmöglich warden will, da schon bei Lebezeiten ihres Helden Schweirigkeiten auffrishcen, die eben nur Maximilian allein sie heben im Stande war. Hat sich aber der Charakter unser grossen Kaisers vor den Lebensumstanden so mancher anderer Monarchen in dem unterschieden, das seine Regierung aus einer fortgesetzten Reihe der mühsam Uniternehmungen bestand; so war die Vor welt gewisser massen berechtigt, uns das volstand Kenntnis einer so denkwürdigen Genschicte aus so eine Art mühsam warden zu lassen.

 

Und welcher Patriot wird sich nicht ein Bergnungen machen, zum frater Andenken dieses dem Herzen des reich unvergesslich Kaisers eine wie immer mühsam untermalung wagen zu können? Maximilan war Jüngling, als Habsburg beinahe nur deutsche grunzen kannte. Zu even der Zeit, als näher Feinde in das Herz der Monarchie herein drangen, ruft ihn die Vorsicht an die aussersten grunzen Deutschlanders hin: dort fangst er an die Sufe des österreichisch Trhones hoher zue bauen, un zeichnet mit seinem ob siegenden Schwert zum weitern Umfange der Monarchie die. Dann kehrt er zuruck, befreit die alten befallen vom feindlichen Joche; und noch nicht Kaiser legt er den Grund ze einer Grosse der österreichischen Statten, wo einer der Enkeln am Donau und Rhein, der andere am Tagus und Po, und Ganges herrschen soll. Konnte uns noch eine Hinernis abhalten, die Edda des habsburgischen Thronenstifters zu zu entwickeln?

 

Wiederholt Bemühungen wurden bisher zur Ausgabe dieses Werkes gemacht; imer liefen siie fruchtlos ab. Selbst die eigentliche Geschichte desselben ist der gelehrten Welt großenteils noch unbekannt. Scheint aber der Inhalt desselben wichtig genug, um eine vollständig Erläuterung des Gründungen vorzunhemen, so reiß er auch unsere Riegel, das uns auch wenigstens das Wesentliche von den Reben um standen dieses Werkes nicht ganz gelich gültig sein wird.

 

Unstreitig kann man für den ersten Verfasser dieser Aufsassen den Kaiser selbst angeben Unter dem schrecklich Laut der Waffen, und von dem Geschäfte einer mühsam Regierung, die ja nur den Geist eines. Maximilians nicht ermüden kennte, umgeben, fand er noch Musse genug, selbe der edelste Wissenschaft zu weihen, und mit der Hände, die geschaffen war, Scepter zu Führen, schreibt er im Stillen des entsamen Kabinett nebst andern kleinen Werken, auch seine Reichs, under Kriegs geschichte; verbesserte und bildete jene Auffasse aus, welche ihm die Minister seines Thrones und de geführten Frieden seiner Heerzugen über eben diesen Gegenstand lie führten. Durch diese gesamte Bemühung war die Geschichte des weissen König schon im Jahr 1512 zur Helft gebracht. So wie der Gegenstand dieser Erzählung, wurde auch die Ausarbeitung der ferneren Nachrichten folgendes Jahr noch fortgestzt.

 

Im Jahr 1514 war aus die  Vollendung des Werkes gedacht, und der kaiserliche Secretar Marx Treitzsauerwein bekam von seinem Monarchen den Austrag, selbes in ordnung zu bringen. Diesem Befehl zu folge kam das grosse Manuscript, 1 an welches wir uns bei unserer Ausgabe gehalten, 2 zustande. Hier äußerte sich nun die Unordnung der Auffassen, und die Undeutlichkeit, in welche viele Erzählungen durch die heimisch Einkleidung des Vortages geraten waren. Diese Schwierigkeiten veranlassen eine neue Bemühung; es wart ein ordentliches fragebuch 3 errichtet, um zu wissen, wie jede zweifelhafte Stelle auszulege ware. Zure Erörterung der so vielfältig Zweifeln, schrieb man an die vorlässigen Abschriften 4 verschiedene Glossen hinzu, die aber grossen Teils in Mutmaßungen, und manchen auch irrigen Auslegungen bestanden: alles berufe sich endlich auf den Kaiser; dieser konnte sich, wichtiger Geschäften un Alters halber eben nicht mehr so genau mit dieser Sache abgeben; er ward endlich der Welt entrißen, ohne eine gedruckte Ausgabe dieses Werkes erlebt zu haben.

 

Es ist leicht ze erachten, das nach dem Hin tritte Kaiser Maximilians nicht mehr so ernstlich aus die Ausgabe wird gedacht worden sein, seinem, da die Schwierig ketten einer richtigen Auslegung selbst mit der Zeit wocehn. Dennoch wurden wir gegen die Verdienste unserer Vorfahren unerkenntlich sein, wenn wir denken solten, das bis aus unsere Zeiten kein einziger Patriot sich habe angelegen sein lassen, dieses artige Stuck der altern Literatur der Welt bekannt zu machen.

 

Still im sechzehntes Jahrhunderte unterzog sich einer so ruhm würden Bemühung der große österreichische Philologe Reichard Strein Freiherr zu Schwarzenau, dessen patriotische Arbeiten der gelehrt Welt bereits bekannt sind. Man hat dem Verzeichnisse seiner noch gedruckte Schriften auch jene locos communes beizustzen, die er zur Auslegung des Buches vom weissen König gesammelt hatte.

 

Obwohl nun auch der astrein Kommentar nicht zustand gekommen, oder wenigstens nie im Drucke erschienen ist, so war doch durch den Tod dieses rumvollen Mannes der gelehrten Welt die Hoffnung nicht ganz benommen, den Weissen König gedruckt zu sehen. Eben jene Anmerkungen, die Strein über dieses Werk hinterlassen hat, geriet in de Hand Fr. Georg Christophs von Schallenberg, der sie vermutlich von seinem Vater Christophenvon Schallenberg einem gelehrten Manne, und Streinens würdigen Freunde mochte überkommen haben.

 

Schallenberg hatte bei neben das Glück im jahr 1631 bei seinem Aufenthalte zu Wien eine Sammlung von den meister zur Geschichte des Weissen König gehörigen Bildern, welche teils aus dem Abdrucke der Holzschnitten, teils aus den ersten Hand zeichnungen bestand, zu überkommen. 5 Er fand in dieser Sammlung die Auslegung mancher Stücken von der eignen Hand Kaiser Maximilians ausgezeichnet. Eben darum ließ er sich den Gegenstand dieser kaiserlichen Bildergeschichte so angelegen sein, das er ohne den Text des Weissen König bei Hand zu haben, seine aus verschiedenen Schriftsellern geholten Anmerkungen in seine Bildersammlung eintrug; durch diese fortgesetzte Beflissenheit brachte er eine beträchtliche Anzahl von Sholien zu. Dennoch sah er seinen Kommentar, auch mit den Strein Anmerkungen begleitet, immer noch als ein unvollkommen Werk an.

 

Merklich gedachte Schallenberg aus eine vollständige Ausgabe aller Maximilianishcen Werken. Da er aber endlich forschten, das seine übringen Lebestage zu einer solcehn Unternehmung nicht kleckern wurden hinterliess er seinene Sohnes des Auftrage das Rothige zur Ausführung einer so edlen Absicht zu besorgen. So starb mit Schellenberg die Hoffnung, den Weissen König gedruckt zu sehen, wider ab.

 

Man kann nicht sagen, ob sich nach den Zeiten Georg Christophs von Schallenberg ein anderer Gelehrter mit einer gleichen Beschäftigung abgegeben habe. Ueberhaupt war das Buch des Weissen König im Reiche der Literatur nicht ganz unbekannt; wenigstens finden sich in den Biographien und Rezension der Gelehrten einige Anzeigen von diesem Werke. Unterdessen blieb das Treitzsarweinische Manuscript samt anderen vorlag Abschriften aus der K K Hobibliothek liegen.

 

Er war aus keine vollständige Ausgabe zu gedenken, bis durch eine glückliche Entdeckung die Holschnitte der zum Buche des Weissen König  bestimmten Figuren, zu Gratz im Herzogtum die Steiermark zum Vorschein gekommen sind. Die Sorgfalt eines grossen Kenners zentrisch sie einem Verderben, dem sie eben bei ihrer zentrisch sie einem verderben, dem sie eben bei ihrer Entdeckung nahe waren: aus gemachte Anzeige wurden sie sodann in die K K Hofbibliothek gebracht; und diese fand sich nunmehr im Stande durch eine vollständige Ausgabe dieses kaiserlichen Werkes dem sehen Verlangen der gelehrten Welt, Genüge zu leisten.

 

Solten die zu dem Geheimnisvollen Texte dieser Geschichte beigefügten Anmerkungen so glücklich ausgefallen sein, das man (fünf bis sechs Aufsatze ausgenommen) von historischer Gewissheit sprechen darf; so hat man diese Erscheinung, der glücklichen Aufklarung eines Zeitalters zu verdanken, welches nunmehr Hilfsmittel genug besitzt, um auch jene historischen Geheimnisse entdecken zu können, die selbst gleichzeitigen Schriftsellern großen teils unauslöschlich geschienen haben.

 

 

 

 

1 Dieses wart hernach im Bücherschätze zu Ambras in Tyrol verwahrt, von da aus kam es in die hiesige K K Hofbibliothek, wo es unter der Manuskript, Hist. Prof. N. XVI begriffen ist.

2 Die dazu bestimmten Figuren wurden von Hannsen Burgmair, und andern Meistern in Holgeschnitten. Mit diesen eststand hernach eine eben so gross Verwirrung als mit dem Texte.

 

3 Cod. Bibl. Cæs. Ms. Hist. Prof. N. XVIII.

4 Cod. Bibl. Cæs. Ms. Hist. Prof. N. XIX. wie auch CXLIV. und CLV. Wir were den uns aus selbe unter allgemeinen Rubrik M. XX. MAXIMILIANI. berufen.

5 Der Codex, in welchem die Sammlung mit dem Schallenberg Scholien eingetragen ist, befind sich nunmehr in den Hand einese würden Besitzers H. Paul Antons von Gundel K K wirklich Hofrat, gehimen Reichs-hof-referendarius, Secretar, und des St Stephans Ordens Ritters.

 

 

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Treitzsaurwein's Foreword to Der Weiß Kunig with short preliminary comments by Bartsch

 

English Translation

Preliminary comment

The task of editing a splendid volume is one that involves considerable responsibility. That is particularly the case as it relates to balancing various affectations and being mindful of accurately representing writings that may otherwise be described as being hidden by mischievous fairies. Such an approach is appropriately applied to this work in that it remains incomplete and has a singular focus in terms of subject. Despite a judicious application of sensible editorial practices, the great power and insurmountable nature of Emperor Maximilian continues to shine through the text. That triumphant regent moved forward with the preparation of this book in the year 1513 and through this work, sought to demonstrate that the Germans spoke in unison – in favour of the universal truth that people may achieve anything with appropriate instruction.

 

Foreword

For the glory of the King and grandfather of Charles a, through God's mercy, King of Spain, Prince of the Kingdoms of Aragon Naples and the Bay of Sicily, Archduke of Austria, Duke of Burgundy, Lorraine, Brabant, Steyr, Kärnten, Crain, Limburg, Luxember and Guelders, Count of Alsace, Prince of Swabia, Count Palatine of Habsburg and Hannegau, Count of Tirol, Burgundy, Flanders, Görtz, Artois, Holland and Zeeland, Heir to the thrones of Kyburg, Namur and Zutphen, Margave of the Holy Roman Kingdom of Enns and Burgau and Lord of Friesland from the Windisch Mark to Portnau, Salins and Micheln, I, Marx Treitzsaurwein of Ehrentreitzb, obediently, willingly and wholeheartedly undertake the duty to serve the glorious King and record his words of wisdom. With due diligence and God-fearing regard, his undiminished commitment will also be displayed in respect of justice, gratitude, truth and those virtues which are expected of governing royalty, including mercy, wisdom, morality and fairness – all values that are reflected in the chivalrous code joyously embraced by this ruler. From the beginning, the words are supplied – with the most profound honour – by the Emperor himself. With God's grace, royal patronage and close instructions, the book is truthful in and achieves its goal of honouring the memory of this royal house. So, too, it continues to provide useful instruction to His Serene Highness, King Ferdinand with its message of life of due deference to God and obedience to the Christian faith in governing the masses with Royal virtue, reward, the sword of justice and good nature so that he may emulate past rulers in whose footsteps he will follow. His Serene Highness, Charles, gave this as a message to Ferdinand to admire and relish, mindful of the pleasures that will be gained through the praiseworthy and graceful knowledge contained within. I honour His Royal Grace and serve tirelessly he who has shown me no small honour and grace in having instructed me to prepare this illustrated book called The White King - composed in three parts according to the orders of the King. The first part is of the Old White King c, how his wife was found and how the couple traveled to Rome for the coronation of the King as Emperor. The second part tells of the Young White King d who, from a young age, learns propriety and empirical knowledge before being married. The third part describes the Young White King as the army's commander and proceeds - with illustrations - in chronological order with what followed. Thus, I honour His Royal Grace and King Ferdinand, by my service.

 

 

 

a Namely: Charles V.

 

b Secretary to Maximilian I, Marx Treitzsaurwein,  who prepared and produced the manuscript of this work, in addition to the Foreword. He is the same scribe that is shown in the first of the illustrations to accompany the text, wherein the Emperor is dictating from the throne to his Secretary who kneels down on his right knee to write. One such verse is that provided to close the manuscript:

Commentaries; much has been written of my Lord

Which have composed in respect of warfare and other matters

Its composition, I say to you now

Comes in such a way as justice to the day.

To fully appreciate the importance of this work, it is worth noting that the Emperor contributed not only his verbal dictation, but also personal essays to be used in preparing the manuscript as mentioned by Treitzsaurwein in his Foreword.

 

c Emperor Friedrich III, father of Maximilian I.

 

d Maximilian I.

 

Modern German Translation

Vorbericht

Ein Jeder dem dich buch vorkommen und die offenbarung des buch verborgen und unwissend fee, macht vermeinen, das buch were mit gemall, und schrift volumen pracht, drinnen beschichten zu verantwortung. Diese unterricht, dies buch ist Run allein ein Materie und ein Unvollkommenheit werk und nichts anders, dann ein gestalt die im der aller durch leuchten Großmacht streit beruft, und unüberwindlich kaiser Maximilian in dem 1513 jahr fahrbereit hat, daraus mit lieblicher vorsprechen der Deutschen sprach Mit Rechter ordnung der menschen Vernunft und mit aller seiner notdürftig zugehören der königlich Wahrheit, ein volk mensch werk zu machen, Das sonst niemands on Unterweisung vollbringen mag, hernach folgen die Verehrung dies buch.

 

Vorwort

Dem durch leucht Fürsten und Großvater Carln a, von Gottes Gnaden, Erlkönig der Spanisch land, von Prinz der Königreich Arragni Neapel und baider Sizilien, Erzherzog zu Österreich, Herzögen zu Burgund, zu Lothringen zu Brabant zu Steiermark zu Kärnten zu Crain zu Limburg zu Luxemburg,und zu Geldern, grafen in Elsass, Fürsten zu Schwäbe, Phaltz grafen zu Habsburg zu Hannegau fürsten Grafen zu Tirol zu Burgund zu Flandern zu Görtz zu Arthois zu Holandt zu Seeland zu beerbt zu Kyburg zu Namur zu Zutphen, Markgraf des heiligen römisch Reichs der Enns und zu Burgau, herr zu Friesland, Aus der Windischen Mark zu Portnau Salins und Micheln, Meinem geneigten herren, empört Ich Marcus Treizsaurbein von Ehrentreitz b, mein untertänig gehorsam schuldig und willig Dienst, Durch leuchtend König geneigten herr er Königliche Würde, welle aus Güte herzen warnamen und mit Fleiß betrachten die Gott furcht, die Müdigkeit Gerechtigkeit Dankbarkeit Wahrheit, und die Menschlich weisheit königlichen tugend löblich rechtmäßig Regierung auch die grossen sittlich gerechte Streitigkeit und ehrlich ähnlich und Ritterlich Freude die Euer königlich genaden vorfordern, Mündliche Stein, in kaiserlicher königlichen und höchstens fürstlich Ehren, von anfang des als, bis auf er königliche Würde, herpracht, und der allmächtig gott ihr darinnen mit sein gnaden Aufenthalt hat, Run ist durch die personn der gross Mächtigkeit er königliche gnaden Aufenthalt das buch der wahrheit mit schriften werken und taten vollbracht worden, demselbeng königliche Geschlecht zu ein Gedächtnis, und er königliche gnaden und Er gnaden Bruder dem durchlaucht könig Fertinanadus zu Er und zu einer unterweisun, In der Furcht Gottes, und in dem gesetzt des christlichen glauben zu Leben, Mit der königlichen tugend und masse zu regieren mit der Gutmütigkeit zu erkennen, Mit der dankper und Mächtigkeit zu belohnen, Mit dem schwert der gerechtigkeit und Handhabung der königlichen er zu streiten, Und also in Er königlichen gnaden vorfordern Fußstapfen zu treten, Ihr Durchlaucht König Karl und Fertinandus erfreut Euch und seit mit allem lob dankbar der grossen gnaden Er und wird, die gott der allmächtig Euch in Euer geburt für alle andere König in königliche Er, und in gross Mächtigkeit der Völker und der Estrich gegeben und verliehen hat und auf das so verehren und überantworte, Ich ehren königlich gnaden, das vor gemalt buch, das genannt wird der weiss könig, Mit aller untertänig die Müdigkeit bittend, ehren gnade welle das buch von mir in ehren königlich und milde gnade annehmen, und mich allezeit in ehren königlich gnade befohlen haben, als Ich nicht zwei, und damit ehren königlich gnade die ordnung das buch ein wissen haben mehr, So ist das buch in drei tail gestalt, das ersten tail wie der alt weiss könig c mit sein gemahl vermahlt worden ist und welchermassen ehren und sein gemahl die höchst krone zu Rom emphang haben, Der zweiter tail des Jungen weissen könig d Jungend von seiner lernen Schicklichkeit Erfahrung und heirat, Der dritte tail von des Jungen weissen könig heer Führer kriege und streiten, Alsdann solche mit Schrift und gemalt nach verständiger ordnung begriffen ist und anzeigt wird, damit thus Ich mich ehren königlich gnade und derselben Brueder könig Fertinandus als mein geneigten herrn, mit aller untertänig befehl.

 

 

a Nämlich: dem fünften.

 

b Maximilians I. Sekretär, dessen derselbe sich zu Verfertigung und Ausarbeitung dieses Werkes bedienet hat, wie solches das im M. S. nach der Vorrede befindliche sehr artige Gemälde zu verstehen gibt, wo der Kaiser auf dem Throne im Harnisch diktiert, der Sekretär Marx Treitzsaurwein aber unten kniet, und auf dem rechten Knie schreibet; mit den am Ende stehenden Versen:

Merkt; viel wirt von mir geschrieben
Was sachen und Krieg Ich hab getrieben
Darum schreib, wie ich dir jetzt sag
So kommt die recht wahrheit an den Tag.

Es erhellet aber aus dem Beschütze dieses Werkes, das der Kaiser seinem Sekretär den Stoff dazu nicht allein mündlich, sondern auch in eigenhändigen Aufsätze erteilt hat, wovon bereits in der Vorrede Erwähnung gemacht worden ist.

c Kaiser Friedrich III, Maximilians I Herr Vater.

 

d Maximilian I.

 

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Chapters within Der Weiß Kunig (1775)

 

Part 1

    

Chapter

 Title  

 

1.

 

The Old White King skillfully drafts a message seeking a consort.

 

 

2.

 

How the Old White King's message came to the King, the young Queen was summoned and as the offer is considered, the Embassy waits for a favourable response.

  

 

3.

 

How the same King from whom the message issued stood and took advice before deciding on the marriage.

  

 

4.

 

How the Old White King leaves the Kingdom to meet his consort and

journey to Rome where he will be anointed as Holy Roman Emperor.

  

 

5.

 

How the young Queen Eleanor, lately of the Kingdom of Portugal and the land of the Moor, takes her place as consort to the Old White King.

  

 

6.

 

How the Old White King traveled to the Pope's land with his consort to be married and was greeted warmly by the great masses of the population of Rome.

  

 

7.

 

How our Holy Father the Pope, the Old White King and the Queen

first exchanged greetings.

  

 

8.

 

How our Holy Father the Pope married the Old White King and the Queen according to the Orders of the Christian Church.

  

 

9.

 

How our Holy Father the Pope crowned the Old White King as Holy Roman Emperor.

  

 

10.

 

How our Holy Father the Pope crowned the Queen.

  

 

11.

 

How our Holy Father the Pope, the Old White King and the Queen proceeded from the Cathedral following the ceremony and continued with unending happiness.

  

 

12.

 

How the Old White King and the Queen returned to the kingdom from Rome to great rejoicing that their union was complete.

  

Part 2

 

 

 

Chapter

 

Title

  

 

13.

 

How the Old White King's wife grew pregnant with a son.

  

 

14.

 

How the Queen gave birth to a son.

  

 

15.

 

How the child was baptized with God's praise.

  

 

16.

 

How, after baptism and achieving the divine office, that same divine child received benedictions.

  

 

17.

 

How the Old White King introduced his young son to the Nobleboys to float among them briefly.

  

 

18.

 

How the Old White King admitted his son to individual tutelage under as Master scholar.

  

 

19.

 

How the Young White King taught himself to write.

  

 

20.

 

How the Young White King gained expertise in the seven liberal arts within a short time.

  

 

21.

 

How the Young White King contemplated ancient traditions and gained expert knowledge of the Universe.

  

 

22.

 

How the Young White King learned the art of Astrology.

  

 

23.

 

How the Young White King learned the Black Arts.

  

 

24.

 

How the Young White King had a particular love of recording his memories.

  

 

25.

 

How the Young White King learned veterinary surgery.

  

 

26.

 

How the Young White King learned the duties of the Official Secretary.

  

 

27.

 

The Young White King's compassion.

  

 

28.

 

How the Young White King learned Bohemian and Windisch dialects from the farmer.

  

 

29.

 

How the Young White King learned painting.

  

 

30.

 

How the Young White King learned stonemason skills.

  

 

31.

 

How the Young White King learned carpentry skills.

  

 

32.

 

How the Young White King learned music and to play stringed instruments.

  

 

33.

 

How the Young White King learned to recognise all foods.

  

 

34.

 

How the Young White King, so attired, was before all other Kings at the Masked Ball.

  

 

35.

 

How the Young White King gained expertise at the Mint.

  

 

36.

 

How the Young White King learned to recognise gilding.

  

 

37.

 

How the Young White King learned to use a handbow by shooting at birds and pheasants.

  

 

38.

 

How the Young White King learned to shoot with a crossbow and steelbow.

  

 

39.

 

How the Young White King enjoyed Falconry.

  

 

40.

 

How the Young White King enjoyed hunting Deer, Chamois, Wild Pig and Boar with the Pack.

  

 

41.

 

How the Young White King delighted in fishing.

  

 

42.

 

How the Young White King had kind regard for the Gamekeeper.

  

 

43.

 

How the Young White King was masterful in bare Zusechten.

  

 

44.

 

How the Young White King had learned to fight with the Bohemian Pavise and the Hussar Targe.

  

 

45.

 

How the Young White King fought masterfully in armour.

  

 

46.

 

How the Young White King excelled in all knightly pursuits including the German Joust and the Italian Joust.

  

 

47.

 

How the Young White King learned to recognise the accoutrements of a Knight and his horse.

  

 

48.

 

How the Young White King gained expertise in the fabrication of Armour in the Armoury.

  

 

49.

 

How the Young White King gained expertise in the construction of Artillery.

  

 

50.

 

How the Young White King gained particular expertise with Wagon Forts.

  

 

51.

 

How a powerful ruler, the Fire Iron King, had a daughter whom the Old White King considered desirable.

  

 

52.

 

How the Old White King and the Fire Iron King came together to arrange a marriage between their children.

  

 

53.

 

How the Fire Iron King invaded the realm with troops and the Old White King went against him in war.

  

 

54.

 

How the King of France formed an alliance including many princes and men to make war against the Fire Iron King and in the conflict that followed, the Fire Iron King died.

  

 

55.

 

How the Fire Iron King died and was buried with the prayers of the Old and Young Queens.

  

 

56.

 

How the Old and Young Fire Iron Queens convened a Council to send a proposal for marriage between the Young Queen and the son of the Old White King.

  

 

57.

 

How the Young White King and his father received the Embassy

conveying the message from the Young Fire Iron Queen.

  

 

58.

 

How the Young White King represented his father to the Green King.

  

 

59.

 

How the Green King and his Marshals traveled swiftly to the land of the Old White King.

  

 

60.

 

How the Old White King made deft arrangements for the marriage of his son, the Young White King, and the Young Queen.

  

 

61.

 

How the Young White King came to join the Young Queen and their forthcoming marriage was welcomed.

  

 

62.

 

How the Young White King and the Young Fire Iron Queen were joined together in marriage.

  

 

63.

 

How the marriage was performed and accompanied by glorious displays of Rennin, Stechin and other Knightly pursuits.

  

 

64.

 

How the Young White King and the Young Queen learned to communicate.

  

 

65.

 

How the Young White King learned Flemish.

  

 

66.

 

How the Young White King learned English.

  

 

67.

 

How the Young White King learned Spanish.

  

 

 

Part 3

    

 

Chapter

 

Title

  

 

68.

 

How the Young White King learned Italian.

  

 

69.

 

How the Young White King learned to speak the seven languages with the assistance of seven Captains.

  

 

70.

 

How the Blue King responded to the marriage of the Young White King with aggressive warfare and the Young White King prepared to drive him out of the land.

  

 

71.

 

How the Blue King went against the Young White King within the realm and the Young White King opposed him.

  

 

72.

 

How the Blue King heard of a local custom of holding celebrations in honour of the marriage of the Young White King.

  

 

73.

 

How a secret agreement between the Young White King and the Blue King was settled and the Blue King abandoned the raid.

 

 

74.

 

Hereafter, the Young White King returned home from the war with substantial honours and his wife gave him a son.

  

 

75.

 

How the Young White King joined the Blue King on the battlefield and the Young White King held the ground and won the battle.

  

 

 

 

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