Middle High German facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Middle High German |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diutsch | ||||
| Region | Central and southern Germany (south of the Benrath line), Austria and parts of Switzerland | |||
| Era | High Middle Ages | |||
| Language family |
Indo-European
|
|||
| Early forms: |
Old High German
|
|||
|
||||
Middle High German was an old form of the German language. People spoke and wrote it during the High Middle Ages. This important time period lasted from about 1050 to 1350. It grew out of an even older language called Old High German. Later, Middle High German changed into Early New High German, which is closer to the German spoken today.
Contents
What Was Middle High German?
Middle High German was not just one language. It was a group of different German dialects. These dialects were spoken across many regions. Think of it like how English has different accents and words in different countries. This language was very important for writing stories and poems during the Middle Ages.
Where Was It Spoken?
People spoke Middle High German in what is now central and southern Germany. It was also used in Austria and parts of Switzerland. These areas were all part of the Holy Roman Empire back then. The language helped people communicate across these lands.
When Did People Use It?
The period for Middle High German is usually set between 1050 and 1350. This means it was used for about 300 years. During this time, many important changes happened in Europe. The language changed too, becoming more organized and easier to understand.
Why Is Middle High German Important?
Middle High German is a key step in the history of the German language. It connects the very old forms of German to the modern language. Studying it helps us understand how languages evolve over time. It also helps us read amazing stories from the Middle Ages.
A Bridge Language
Think of Middle High German as a bridge. It connects Old High German to Early New High German. Old High German was much harder to understand for modern German speakers. Middle High German made the language simpler. It set the stage for the German we know today.
Understanding Medieval Culture
Many famous stories and poems were written in Middle High German. These writings give us a peek into life in the Middle Ages. They tell us about knights, kings, and everyday people. Without Middle High German, we would not be able to read these important historical texts.
Famous Works in Middle High German
Many great literary works were created during the Middle High German period. These stories are still studied today. They are important parts of German and European culture.
The Nibelungenlied
One of the most famous works is the Nibelungenlied. This is an epic poem about dragons, heroes, and tragic love. It tells the story of Siegfried, a brave hero, and the powerful Nibelung treasure. It is like the German version of King Arthur's legends.
Works by Famous Poets
Many poets wrote beautiful songs and poems in Middle High German. One of the most famous was Walther von der Vogelweide. He wrote about love, politics, and life. His poems are still admired for their beauty and cleverness. Another important writer was Hartmann von Aue. He wrote stories about knights and their adventures, like Iwein and Erec. These stories taught lessons about honor and courage.
Images for kids
-
German territorial expansion before 1400 from F. W. Putzger
-
Middle High German dialect boundaries
-
Manuscript B of Hartmann von Aue's Iwein (Gießen, UB, Hs. 97), folio 1r
-
Manuscript C of the Nibelungenlied, fol.1r
See also
In Spanish: Alto alemán medio para niños
