Taunhauser

Taunhauser, a Bavarian knight of the 13th century, who resided as minnesinger at the court of Frederick II., Duke of Austria. Through some unknown circnmstances in his life he became the central figure in an ancient legend, supposed by Grimm to typify the early struggle between Christianity and Paganism. In the course of his wanderings Tannhauser arrives at the monnt of Lady Venus and there lives in luxury and self-indulgence, but at last repents of his evil courses and repairs to the Pope at Rome to seek absolution. The Pope tells him that the budding of his staff wonld be a less miracle than Tannhauser's forgiveness, where upon the knight returns in despair to the fairy court. Three days afterwards the staff buds, but all the Pope's endeavours to find Tannhauser are fruitless.