The Nibelungenlied

Thought to have been first written down in the 12th century by an author who is still unknown, “The Nibelungenlied”, translated from Middle High German as “The Song of the Nibelungs”, is an epic German poem reflecting the oral tradition, heroic motifs, and actual events and individuals from the 5th and 6th centuries. This remarkable work begins with an assurance of both joy and sorrow, though ultimately tragedy reins in “The Nibelungenlied”. The early chapters recount the young life of Sieg...