Das Nibelungenlied is a classic German epic poem that tells the story of the heroic and tragic events surrounding the legendary warrior Siegfried and the royal family of Burgundy. The poem is rich in symbolism and mythology, exploring themes of love, loyalty, betrayal, and revenge.

Karl Joseph Simrock's translation of this medieval epic is beautifully written and captures the essence of the original text in a way that is accessible to modern readers. His lyrical language and vivid imagery bring the characters and their world to life, making it easy to become immersed in the story.

The characters in Das Nibelungenlied are complex and multifaceted, with their strengths and flaws on full display. From the noble and valiant Siegfried to the scheming and deceitful Kriemhild, each character adds depth and intensity to the narrative. The themes of honor, sacrifice, and vengeance are woven throughout the poem, creating a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Overall, Das Nibelungenlied is a timeless and engrossing epic that offers readers a glimpse into the world of medieval Germanic mythology. Simrock's translation is a true masterpiece, preserving the beauty and power of the original text for a new generation of readers to enjoy.

Book Description:

Das Nibelungenlied ist ein mittelalterliches Heldenepos und wurde oft als „Nationalepos der Deutschen“ bezeichnet. Es entstand zu Beginn des 13. Jahrhunderts und wurde in der damaligen Volkssprache Mittelhochdeutsch geschrieben.
Das Epos erzählt von der Liebe zwischen dem Drachentöter Siegfried und der burgundischen Prinzessin Kriemhild, von der Brautwerbung des burgundischen Königs Gunther um die isländische Königin Brunhild, vom Verrat der Burgunden an Siegfried und dessen Ermordung durch Hagen. Später ist der Schauplatz der Handlung das Land der Hunnen unter König Etzel, den Kriemhild in zweiter Ehe geheiratet hat. Kriemhild benutzt ihre neue Position, um mithilfe der Hunnen Siegfrieds Tod an Hagen und allen Burgunden zu rächen.
Die Übersetzung Karl Joseph Simrocks gehört zu den bekanntesten Übertragungen des alten Textes in die neuhochdeutsche Sprache.

The Nibelungenlied (Song of the Nibelungs) is a medieval epic poem and has been often referred to as the German “national epic”. It was written down in the early 13th century in Middle High German, the vernacular of the time.
The epic tells of the love between the dragon-slayer Siegfried and the Burgundian princess Kriemhild, how Gunther, King of Burgundy, courts Brunhild of Iceland, and how Siegfried is betrayed by the Burgundians and murdered by Hagen. The scene of the story later shifts to the land of the Huns of King Etzel, Kriemhild’s husband in second marriage. Kriemhild uses her new position among the Huns to avenge Siegfried’s death on Hagen and all the Burgundians.
The translation of Karl Joseph Simrock is one of the best-known New German versions of the old text.