With its complex structure of meaning and elaborate narrative composition, Parzival is not an easy read. Nevertheless, the work, with over 80 preserved textual testimonies, can be said to have a unique history of impact in the Middle Ages. Wolfram von Eschenbach addresses all the common issues of his literary era—sometimes critically ironic, sometimes presenting them in a novel way for his time. The novel thus holds exemplary significance for the themes of courtly literature as a whole. The author follows a multitude of additional storylines parallel to the main narrative concerning Parzival. In ever new dice throws, he plays out the political, social, and religious problems that Parzival faces with other characters.