Synopsis
The legend of Siegfried, the famed dragon killer of the Nibelungs, is the most fascinating myth of the Middle Ages. The dramatic story of love, faith and betrayal enthrals audiences worldwide to this day. The legend has long been regarded as the epitome of Germanness – exploited even by the Nazis. In reality, it is a quintessentially pan-European story. Siegfried is Dutch, Brunhild Icelandic; the Burgundian kings are from France, Attila from Hungary. Medieval records of the legend have been found in Sweden, Spain and on the Isle of Man. So what is the “real story” behind the famous saga? The kingdom of Burgundy and Atilla, king of the Huns – they really existed. But who was Siegfried in reality? How much historic truth lies at the bottom of the myth and the tragic fate of its characters?
