ABSTRACT
There are sixteen Sangsprüche in three cycles in the Manesse manuscript and-though authenticity is open to question-a further cycle of four in the Jena manuscript. The principle theme of the Manesse Sangsprüche is the experience (and the poverty) of the traveling singer, patronage, and the death of the patron. The Jena cycle is more pious, including prayers of atonement. Other lyrical works attributed to Tannhäuser in Jena, Kolmar, and Wiltener manuscripts are at best of dubious authorship.
