Hero and Narrative, For the narrative Function of the Hero in medieval Literature

The article focuses on general features of the heroic narrative. Based upon research on narratology, examples are discussed with regard to the relationship between narrative formats and culturally specific values. The recombination of narrative cores is demonstrated in the discussion of the narrative options presented by Wolfgang Muller Funk by analysing a number of narratives in the heroic epic. There are lengthy narratives depicting genealogy and conquest, shorter narratives portraying exile and return, betrayal and revenge, loyalty and sacrifice as well as the heroic death of the iuvenis. Even shorter narratives deal with duels in all possible substitutions and combinations.