# Adventure XXVIII: How the Burgundians Came to Etzel’s Stronghold explained — The Nibelungenlied > Chapter companion for The Nibelungenlied by Anonymous. ## 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. ## Character check-ins ### 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 lines > 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._ ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_nibelungenlied_se/chapters/adventure-xxviii-how-the-burgundians-came-to-etzel-s-stronghold - Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_nibelungenlied_se - All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_nibelungenlied_se/chapters