The Nibelungenlied · Chapter
Adventure XXVIII: How the Burgundians Came to Etzel’s Stronghold explained
The Burgundians arrive at Etzel's court and are greeted by Dietrich and his warriors.
What happens
The Burgundians arrive at Etzel's court and are greeted by Dietrich and his warriors. Kriemhilda confronts Hagen about the Nibelung treasure, and tensions rise as she attempts to have the Burgundians' weapons taken from them. Dietrich warns Hagen of Kriemhilda's vengeful intentions, and Etzel recalls his past acquaintance with Hagen.
Themes in this chapter
Betrayal and Deception
Kriemhilda's feigned courtesy masks her vengeful intent, and she schemes to separate the Burgundian yeomen from their lords.
Revenge and Vengeance
Kriemhilda's grief for Siegfried drives her to seek revenge against Hagen and the Burgundians, as Dietrich warns.
Honor and Reputation
Hagen's refusal to surrender his weapons and his defiant stance uphold his warrior honor, while Etzel recalls Hagen's past service.
Characters to notice
- Hagen
Confronts Kriemhilda about the treasure and refuses to surrender his weapons; warned by Dietrich of the queen's hostility.
- Kriemhilda
Greets the Burgundians with feigned courtesy, demands the Nibelung treasure from Hagen, and attempts to have their weapons taken.
- Lord Dietrich
Welcomes the Burgundians, warns Hagen of Kriemhilda's vengeful mood, and openly scorns the queen.
- King Gunther
Leads the Burgundian party and speaks with Dietrich about the queen's intentions.
- Giselher
Kissed and greeted by Kriemhilda, his sister.
- Gernot
Among the Burgundian kings who confer with Dietrich.
- Volker
Comments on the inevitability of fate as the Burgundians ride to court.
- Etzel
Observes Hagen and inquires about him, recalling their past acquaintance.
Key passages
“Since Dankwart, Hagen's brother, the marshal had been made, The king with zeal commended the men to him; and bade That he would seek their comfort and let them have their fill.”
King Gunther appointed Dankwart as marshal and instructed him to ensure the comfort of the Burgundian warriors.
Dankwart is given responsibility for the men's welfare, which later proves tragic.
“In view of such a greeting, thus Hagen blurted out, A prompt and ready warrior may well have some misdoubt! To kings and to their vassals greetings unlike befall: We've made no lucky journey to this high festival.”
Hagen remarks that the unequal greeting—kissing Giselher but not him—signals danger, suggesting their journey will end badly.
Hagen immediately suspects Kriemhilda's intentions.
“I' faith, my Lady Kriemhild, 'tis now full many a day Since when at my disposal the Niblung treasure lay; At bidding of my masters 'twas sunk in the Rhine-tide: There till the Day of Judgment, in sooth, it may abide.”
Hagen tells Kriemhilda that the Nibelung treasure was sunk in the Rhine on his masters' orders and will remain there forever.
Hagen taunts Kriemhilda by revealing the treasure is lost to her.
“The devil a bit I bring you! Sir Hagen fell to swear: I have my shield to carry, and that's enough to bear, Together with my mail-coat; my helm's a trifling thing, My sword I have in hand though, so naught for you I bring.”
Hagen swears he brings nothing for Kriemhilda, only his own weapons and armor.
Hagen refuses to give her any gifts, further provoking her.
“Thereon Lord Dietrich answer'd, and said to her in scorn: 'Twas I that took upon me these noble kings to warn; And Hagen warn'd I likewise, the brave Burgundian. Come on, thou devil's daughter, do me the worst you can!”
Dietrich scornfully admits he warned the Burgundians and Hagen, and challenges Kriemhilda to do her worst.
Dietrich openly defies the queen, siding with the Burgundians.
