Nibelungenlied Chapter Summary & Analysis - Adventure 17, How Siegfried Was Bewailed and Burned Summary

Adventure 17, How Siegfried Was Bewailed and Burned Summary

When the hunting party arrives at the stronghold, Hagen takes Siegfried's body and lays it before Kriemhild's door where she will find it in the morning. A chamberlain come to the lady's chamber is the first to discover the body. Kriemhild immediately recognizes her beloved. The queen's first thought is of the question posed by Hagen. She tells her maidens that Brunhild's counsel and Hagen's blow have rendered her husband lifeless.

King Siegmund and all Siegfried's warriors are roused by a messenger. When they come to Kriemhild's hall, they vow vengeance on the man who has laid their hero low and begin at once to seek out the murderous traitor. Kriemhild fears for the safety of her husband's men and counsels them to leave revenge for another day. A strong coffin is fashioned for the noble champion and his body is born to the church. When Gunther offers condolences to...
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