The Nibelungenlied Translated into Rhymed English Verse in the Metre of the Original

Set amid the restless migrations of early medieval Europe, this epic weaves together the raw vigor of historic Germanic tribes and the timeless power of myth. A heroic dragon‑slayer arrives bearing a shimmering hoard, his fame already echoing through distant halls. His confidence and uncanny strength draw the admiration—and envy—of the Burgundian court, while whispers of ancient curses linger over his glittering treasure. The narrative balances the brutal reality of tribal clashes with the lyrical pulse of legendary deeds.

Within the Burgundian realm, a fierce loyalty binds the warrior Hagen to his ruler, and a passionate bond blossoms between the noble Siegfried and the beautiful Kriemhild. Their growing affection sparks both celebration and unease, as political ambition and personal grudges begin to stir beneath the surface. The tale unfolds with vivid battles, feasts, and poetic counsel, inviting listeners to feel the tension between destiny and desire that will shape the saga’s tragic path.