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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who convinces Kriemhild to do what she does in response to Siegmund's request?

2. From whom does Siegfried win the cloud-cloak?

3. How long does Kriemhild go without speaking to Gunther after Siegfried dies?

4. What is the name of Kriemhild's child?

5. During what part of the year is Siegfried knighted?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the secret of Siegfried's strength?

2. What happens after Kriemhild decides to stay in Burgundy?

3. Name three honorable acts that Iring performs.

4. What do Hagen's men say when they hear the invitation from Kriemhild?

5. What does Rudiger ask of Giselher, just in case Giselher survives the battle and Rudiger does not?

6. Why does Hildebrand slay Kriemhild?

7. What does Hagen do with the Nibelungers' treasure?

8. Describe the test of innocence that Kriemhild demands of the men she deems guilty of her husband's murder.

9. By the time thirteen years has passed, how is Kriemhild regarded in Hungary?

10. What is Siegfried more interested in than ruling as king, and why?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Repetition is an important characteristic in Das Nibelungenlied. There are various elements in the first half of the poem that are repeated in the second half. Write an essay that provides examples of three patterns that exist in the poem and explain what these patterns contribute to the plot, mood, theme, or other aspect of the poem. Use examples from the poem to support your argument.

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay that explains the reasons why does Rudiger stays away from the fray between the Gunther's men and Etzel's men until the very end.

Part 1: What oaths and customs prohibit his involvement, or is there another reason he stays away?

Part 2: Does Rudiger try to stay true to his oaths? If so how? If not, why not? What involvement do Etzel and Kriemhild have in changing his mind?

Use specific examples from the poem to support your argument.

Essay Topic 3

Explain the animosity between Brunhild and Kriemhild. Why could they not be brought into some kind of peaceful relationship? What prevented their peace? How did other characters either feed or neglect to resolve their animosity?

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