Act II. At the festive banquet _Guntram_, relying upon the power of

the thought of love as presented by him, will make use of the occasion to win the _Duke's_ heart for peace. The _Duke_, whose _clown_ has just irritated him, in a rage interrupts _Guntram_. But the latter is protected by the vassals all of whom at heart are angry at the cruel ruler. When a messenger brings news of a new revolt, a vote is taken and they all decide for war. Then _Guntram_ reminds them anew of peace in inspired songs. In a rage the _Duke_ scorns him as a rebel, assaults him and, after a brief wrestle, _Guntram_ strikes down the tyrant. Then the _Old Duke_ has him thrown into a dungeon and goes off with the vassals to put down the rebellion again. But _Freihild_, whose heart is inflamed with love for the bold, noble singer, conspires with the _clown_ to save him and flee with him.