What is the plot of nibelungenlied?
The Nibelungenlied combines two stories, each of long standing in Germanic tradition. The character of the Burgundian princess Kriemhild is used to link them. In the first half she is betrothed to the heroic Siegfried, a prince from the Rhineland who comes to the Burgundian royal palace at Worms.
What does Nibelungen in Norse mythology mean?
The German Nibelungen — with the corresponding Old Norse form Niflung — is the name in Germanic and Norse mythology of the royal family or lineage of the Burgundians who settled in the early 5th century at Worms. The vast wealth of the Burgundians is often referred to as the Niblung or Niflung hoard.
Who is Etzel in nibelungenlied?
Etzel is the widowed King of Hungary (his character is based on Attila the Hun). Because he is a pagan, he doubts that the Christian Kriemhild will consider marrying him, but hopes that his extravagant wealth might persuade her.
What is the main theme of nibelungenlied?
The Nibelungenlied draws on history, mythology, and legend for its details. It encompasses themes such as heroism, feudalism, justice and revenge, honor, loyalty, deception, dreams, and the importance of “keeping up appearances.”
How old is nibelungenlied?
The Nibelungenlied is conventionally dated to around 1200: Wolfram von Eschenbach references the cook Rumolt, usually taken as an invention of the Nibelungenlied-poet, in his Parzival (c. 1204/5), giving a date by which the epic must have been composed.
What was heimdallr hailed as?
Heimdall, Old Norse Heimdallr, in Norse mythology, the watchman of the gods. Called the shining god and whitest skinned of the gods, Heimdall dwelt at the entry to Asgard, where he guarded Bifrost, the rainbow bridge.
Why is Siegfried a hero?
Known for his royalty and the way he led troops into battle. Overall that his personality that of a true noble knight determined to fulfill the requests people gave him with perseverance. He was also a tragic hero that trusted people.