LINGUAE VASCONUM PRIMITIAE - Euskaltzaindia

magna Domino and stanzas from the consecration of the Milan cathedral
in 738 which begins «Rerum cernitur cunctarum inclita speciebus». Here
we are unable to point out, however superficially, the characteristics of
this versification which, except for its written character, fully coincides
with «bertsolarisrno» 18 which, nevertheless, has its own equivalent in
the form of «bertso paperak» 19.
If expressing a wish is in order, may this homage serve to inspire
some of our young graduates of Basque philology to fill the yawning gap
in literary analysis of Etxepare's work and find in it the distinguished
popular poet who sprinkled his work with sayings and proverbs.
Patxi ALTUNA
18 Genre of Basque folk poetry based on improvisation and performed by «bertsolaris»,
who, like troubadours or bards, perform in groups in various public places. The metre and
rhythm of their verses are based on various traditional tunes.
19 (Lit. 'verse papers') The «bertsolaris'» compositions appeared on these printed sheets
of papero They often contained more elaborate poetry while still following the formal rules
of the genre. They were sold during fairs and festivals and touched on subjects of current
and local interest.
189