"An ultimate limit had been set for Tristan in the twin spheres of success and misfortune; for in everything that he set his hand to he succeeded for the most part; yet his success was dogged with misfortune, little though the latter has in common with it. Thus these two opposites, constant success, and abiding misfortune were paired together in one man."
Here, Gottfried describes Tristan's character, suggesting that he has some conflict within himself. While Tristan is often successful in his endeavors, he is also fated with bad luck, which we can see during the events of this text.
"Thus, under Tristan's instruction, lovely Isolde had much improved herself. Her disposition was charming, her manners and bearing good. She had mastered some fine instruments and many skilled accomplishments. Of love-songs she could make both the words and the airs and polish them beautifully. She was able to read and write."
Tristan's lover Isolde is depicted as an accomplished and beautiful lady who had "much improved herself." Gottfried describes how her "disposition was charming, her manners and bearing good," suggesting that she is a positive and loving character.
