Focusing on the significance of skin, this book encourages children to observe and appreciate the variations in skin tone and texture throughout life. It prompts readers to reflect on their own skin by drawing a self-portrait and articulating its importance to them. Rather than providing scientific details, it aims to spark curiosity about a commonly overlooked topic, fostering a sense of self-awareness and appreciation for diversity in skin.
This volume honors Professor Ernst S. Dick from the University of Kansas, celebrating his over forty years as a scholar, teacher, colleague, and friend. While primarily focused on medieval literature and culture, it includes diverse essays from his admirers across various fields. Topics range from Carlee Arnett's exploration of the semantic history of "werden" to Frank Baron’s analysis of Lyonel Feininger’s watercolor. Contributions also cover König Rother and Dukus Horant by Tina Boyer, and Francis B. Brévart’s examination of the magical plant mugwort. Other notable essays include Stephanie Cain Van D’Elden on boats and sea passages in Tristan illustrations, Maria Dobozy’s insights into Diu Crône by Heinrich von dem Türlin, and Otfrid Ehrismann’s study of ritual order in Heinrichs von Veldeke’s Eneas. The collection features discussions on the Vienna Notker Psalms, Martin Luther’s writings, and Sebastian Brant’s Ship of Fools. Additional topics include gendered attributes in the Old Saxon Heliand, Walter Scott’s use of medieval romance, and the Nibelungenlied's message. The volume also addresses cultural knowledge in Hans Sachs' works, Jewish tradition in German-Jewish literature, and the functions of food and drink in bedroom chambers, showcasing a rich tapestry of scholarly engagement.