Gudrun · Chapter
Names of Persons explained
This chapter lists the principal characters of the epic, providing their names, familial relationships, and roles in the narrative.
What happens
This chapter lists the principal characters of the epic, providing their names, familial relationships, and roles in the narrative. It introduces the royal lineages of Ireland, the Hegelings, Normandy, and Moorland, establishing the key figures who will drive the story of Gudrun.
Themes in this chapter
Family and Kinship
The chapter is a genealogical catalog, emphasizing the importance of family ties and royal lineage in shaping the characters' identities and destinies.
Power and Warfare
The listing of kings, queens, and vassals establishes the political and martial hierarchies that underpin the epic's conflicts.
Characters to notice
- Gudrun
Daughter of Hettel and Hilda, central figure of the epic.
- Hartmut
Son of Ludwig and Gerlind, a suitor for Gudrun.
- Hettel
King of the Hegelings, husband of Hilda, father of Gudrun and Ortwin.
- Hilda
Daughter of Hagen, wife of Hettel, mother of Gudrun and Ortwin.
- Hagen
Son of Sigeband and U-te, grandfather of Gudrun.
- Herwic
King of Sealand, betrothed to Gudrun.
Key passages
“Ger —an early king of Ireland, grandfather of Hagen.”
Ger was an early king of Ireland and the grandfather of Hagen.
Introduces the first generation of the Irish royal line.
“Gudrun —daughter of Hettel and Hilda.”
Gudrun is the daughter of Hettel and Hilda.
Identifies the epic's heroine and her parents.
“Hartmut —son of Ludwig and Gerlind, a suitor for Gudrun.”
Hartmut, the son of Ludwig and Gerlind, is one of Gudrun's suitors.
Establishes Hartmut's role as a key romantic rival.