The Nibelungenlied · Chapter
Adventure XVIII: How Siegmund Went Back to His Own Land explained
King Siegmund, Siegfried's father, urges Kriemhilda to return with him to the Nibelung land, offering her power and protection.
What happens
King Siegmund, Siegfried's father, urges Kriemhilda to return with him to the Nibelung land, offering her power and protection. However, Kriemhilda's brothers Giselher and Gernot, along with her mother Uté, persuade her to stay in Worms. Despite Siegmund's pleas and the sorrow of his men, Kriemhilda decides to remain, entrusting her son to Siegmund. The Nibelungs depart with a safe-conduct from Giselher, mourning their loss. Kriemhilda continues to grieve, finding comfort only in Giselher, while Brunhilda remains aloof and hostile.
Themes in this chapter
Loyalty and Friendship
Siegmund's loyalty to his son's memory and his offer of protection to Kriemhilda contrast with the betrayal that led to Siegfried's death.
Betrayal and Deception
The chapter dwells on the aftermath of Siegfried's treacherous murder, with Kriemhilda's refusal to stay with Siegmund partly due to the presence of Hagen, the betrayer.
Grief and Mourning
Kriemhilda's persistent sorrow and the weeping of Siegmund's men highlight the deep mourning that pervades the chapter.
Characters to notice
- Kriemhilda
Grieving Siegfried's murder, she refuses to leave Worms despite Siegmund's offer, choosing to stay with her family.
- Siegmund
Siegfried's father, who tries to bring Kriemhilda and her son back to his land, but ultimately departs sorrowfully without her.
- Giselher
The young brother who persuades Kriemhilda to stay, offers her protection, and provides a safe-conduct for Siegmund's departure.
- Gernot
Brother who joins in persuading Kriemhilda to remain, and expresses his innocence regarding Siegfried's death.
- Dame Uté
Kriemhilda's mother, who also urges her to stay in Worms.
- Brunhilda
Remains arrogantly aloof, showing no remorse or goodwill toward Kriemhilda.
- Hagen
Though not directly present, Kriemhilda expresses that she cannot bear to see him, as he is the cause of her sorrow.
Key passages
“Kriemhilda, dearest lady, come to my land with me.”
Siegmund invites Kriemhilda to return with him to his kingdom.
Siegmund's offer of refuge and power to his daughter-in-law.
“I needs must die of sorrow if I should Hagen see.”
Kriemhilda says she would die of grief if she had to look at Hagen.
Her deep aversion to Hagen, whom she holds responsible for Siegfried's death.
“The beauteous Brunhilda still arrogantly sat: Howe’er Kriemhilda fretted she took no thought for that.”
Brunhilda remained haughty and indifferent to Kriemhilda's suffering.
The ongoing tension and lack of reconciliation between the two queens.