In Our Time The Nibelungenlied
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Dec 29, 2022 In this gripping discussion, Sarah Bowden, a Reader in German and Medieval Studies, unveils the dark allure of the Nibelungenlied. Mark Chinca, Professor at Cambridge, contextualizes its historical roots, while Bettina Bildhauer from St Andrews dives into its complex themes and narrative structures. They explore female power dynamics, the process of vengeance, and the epic's evolution through ages and adaptations. The conversation highlights the text's haunting legacy, fraught morality, and its intricate portrayal of heroism and gender roles.
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Authorship and Setting
- The Nibelungenlied was likely written in the 1190s in Passau, possibly by a cleric.
- The author had detailed local knowledge and incorporated the historical Bishop Pilgrim into the narrative.
The Nibelungs and Deceit
- The Nibelungs, despite the title, are not central figures; the story focuses on deceit's destructive power.
- The title "Nibelungenlied" was likely added later by editors, as medieval texts often lacked titles.
Powerful Women
- The Nibelungenlied features powerful women who drive the narrative.
- Brunhild, an Amazonian queen, and Kriemhild, who evolves from a passive beauty to an agent of revenge, are key figures.
