In the following excerpt, Mueller explains that the Nibelungenlied's main theme is man himself, particularly how he responds to a dilemma. Mueller also explores the poet's concerns and his relation to his work and contends that the poem, without promoting specific religious values, nevertheless affirms man's need for faith.

In the following essay, McConnell applies analytical psychology to an exploration of the motivations and dreams of the Nibelungenlied's main characters and their relationships, finding much evidence of repression.

In the following excerpt, Andersson summarizes the new approaches taken in critical analyses of the Nibelungenlied during the last half of the twentieth century.

In the following essay, Lionarons explores the relationship between mythical characters and humans in the Nibelungenlied.

In the following essay, McConnell offers an overview of the Nibelungenlied's influence on German literature.

In the following excerpt, Bekker examines the function of the Nibelungenlied's imagery and symbolism and discusses the epic's abundant symmetry and varied pace.

In the following essay, Mowatt explains why taking a historical approach in analyzing the Nibelungenlied is unsatisfactory; Mowatt then offers suggestions for studying it using a structural approach.

In the following essay, Curschmann contends that dogmatic advocates of the theory of oral-formulaic composition have rendered a disservice to Nibelungenlied studies by, among other things, relying too much on scientific analysis and failing to take proper notice of the nature of literature in the Middle Ages.

In the following essay, McLintock explains that the Nibelungenlied is best approached aesthetically, for its literary qualities.

In the following excerpt, Haymes explores the conflicts between the heroic, the courtly, and the diplomatic in the Nibelungenlied and contends that the tale serves as a warning against the abuse of new values.

In the following essay, Jones explains how the Germanic ethics of the Nibelungenlied differ from modern values, and urges that the reader be aware of these differences in trying to understand the motivation of the characters in the work.

In the following essay, Dickerson argues against viewing Hagen as heroic, contending instead that he should be regarded as an evil character.

In the following essay, Sacker examines examples of irony in the Nibelungenlied and points out some previously overlooked uses of symbolism.

In the following excerpt, Jiriczek discusses the historical and mythical foundations of the Nibelungenlied, and the development, continuance, and extinction of the saga.

In the following essay, Lösel-Wieland-Engelmann provides a personal account of her experiences in promoting the idea of female authorship for the Nibelunglied.

In the following essay, Gentry maintains that the Nibelungenlied explores the issue of feudal bonds while it instructs its audience that an individual moral decision can override law and custom.

In the following excerpt, Sandbach explores Middle English and Modern English literary works that may have been influenced by or adapted from the Nibelungenlied.