Kudrun

Kudrun, also known as Das Kudrun or Gudrun, is a Middle High German epic poem attributed to an anonymous author. It belongs to the broader German heroic literature tradition and is often read in connection with the Nibelungenlied, though it preserves a distinct voice and structure. Most scholars date its composition to the 12th or 13th century, with manuscript evidence from the late medieval period. The text exists in several late copies, and the exact order and emphasis can vary between witnesses; as a result, modern editions rely on critical apparatus to present a coherent version of the narrative.

The poem centers on its heroine Kudrun, a princess who embodies loyalty, hospitality, and steadfastness amid political upheaval. The plot follows Kudrun’s life as she navigates dynastic alliances, marriages, and conflicts that shape the fate of realms and noble houses. Throughout, the narrative stresses duties of kinship, fidelity to spouse and kin, and the responsibilities of kingship, often framed within Christian moral sensibilities that underscore forgiveness and reconciliation after strife.

Language and style in Kudrun are characteristic of East Central German epic poetry, featuring formulaic sequences, vivid ritualized scenes, and a strong emphasis on courtly conduct and ceremonial hospitality. The work’s relatively protracted focus on a female protagonist offers a notable perspective within medieval romance, contributing to discussions about gender, power, and virtue in early German literature.

Scholars continue to study Kudrun for its literary artistry, its place within the medieval German romance tradition, and its insights into medieval notions of kingship, marriage, and social obligation.