Abstract
In this article, a new approach to the character Parzival is applied. How the identity of Parzival is constructed is analyzed using recognition patterns for Parzival stated by other characters over the course of the story. Amongst other things it is revealed how the Gawan episodes artfully draw the reader’s attention and sympathy towards the absent Parzival character (ritter rôt); this is mainly achieved through the authority of Gawan as a protagonist.