RICHARD WAGNER (continued 2)
Margaret Armour translation
SIEGFRIED
I love thee; Didst thou but love me! Myself I have lost; Ah, would thou wert won! A fair-flowing flood Before me rolls; With all my senses Nothing I see But buoyant, beautiful billows. If it refuse To mirror my face, Just as I am, To assuage my fever, Myself I will plunge Straight in the stream:— If only the billows Would blissfully drown me, My yearning lost in the flood! Awaken, Brünnhilde! Waken, O maid! Laughing and living, Sweetest delight, Be mine! Be mine! Be mine!
BRÜNNHILDE [With deep feeling.
Thine, Siegfried! I was from of old!
SIEGFRIED [With fire.
What thou hast been That be thou still!
BRÜNNHILDE
Thine I will Always be!
SIEGFRIED
What thou wilt be Be thou to-day! Clasped in my arms And closely embraced, Heart upon heart Beating in rapture, Glances aglow, And breath mingled hungrily, Eye in eye and Mouth on mouth! All that thou wert And wilt be, be thou it now! The fear and the fever would vanish Were Brünnhild' now mine!
BRÜNNHILDE
Were I now thine? Heavenly calm Is tossing and raging; Light that was pure Flames into passion; Wisdom divine Forsakes me and flies; Jubilant love Has scared it away! If I be thine? Siegfried! Siegfried! Canst thou not see? By the blaze of my eyes Thou art not struck blind? In my arms' embrace Thou surely must burn! As my blood like a torrent Surges and leaps, The fire fierce-flaming Dost thou not feel? Fearest thou, Siegfried? Fearest thou not The wild, love-frenzied maid?
SIEGFRIED [With a shock of joy.
Ha! As the blood swift-surging is kindled, As our eyes devour one another, As our arms cling close in their rapture, Dauntless again My courage swells, And the fear I failed For so long to learn, The fear that I scarcely Learned from thee— The stupid boy fears That fear is completely forgot!
[With the last words he has involuntarily let Brünnhilde go.
BRÜNNHILDE [Laughing wildly with joy.
Oh, valorous boy! Oh, glorious hero! Unwitting source Of wonderful deeds! Laughing, laughing I love thee; Laughing welcome my blindness; Laughing let us go doomwards, Laughing go down to death! Farewell Walhall's Radiant world, Its stately halls In the dust laid low! Farewell, glittering Pomp divine! End in bliss, O immortal race! Norns, rend in sunder Your rope of runes! Dusk steal darkly Over the Gods! Night of their downfall Dimly descend! Now Siegfried's star Is rising for me; He is for ever And for aye, My wealth, my world, My all in all: Love ever radiant, Laughing death!
SIEGFRIED
[While Brünnhilde repeats the foregoing, beginning at "Farewell Walhall's Radiant world."
Laughing thou wakest, Thou my delight! Brünnhilde lives, Brünnhilde laughs! Hail, O day In glory arisen! Hail, O Sun That shines from on high! Hail, O light From the darkness sprung! Hail, O world Where Brünnhilde dwells! She wakes! She lives! She greets me with laughter! Splendour streams From Brünnhilde's star!
Brünnhilde throws herself into Siegfried's arms. See p. 99.
SIEGFRIED
She is for ever And for aye My wealth, my world, My all in all, Love ever radiant, Laughing death!
[Brünnhilde throws herself into Siegfried's arms. The curtain falls.
THE TWILIGHT OF THE GODS
CHARACTERS
SIEGFRIED GUNTHER HAGEN ALBERICH BRÜNNHILDE GUTRUNE WALTRAUTE THE THREE NORNS THE RHINE-MAIDENS VASSALS WOMEN
SCENES OF ACTION
PRELUDE: ON THE VALKYRIES' ROCK
I.THE HALL OF GUNTHER'S DWELLING ON THE RHINE. THE VALKYRIES' ROCK
II.IN FRONT OF GUNTHER'S HALL
III.A WOODED REGION ON THE RHINE. GUNTHER'S HALL
PRELUDE
The curtain rises slowly. The scene is the same as at the close of the second day, on the Valkyries' rock; night. In the background, from below, firelight shines. The three Norns, tall women in long, dark, veil-like drapery. The first (eldest) lies in the foreground, to the right, under the spreading pine-tree; the second (younger) is stretched on a shelving rock in front of the cave; the third (youngest) fits in the centre at the back on a rock near the peak. Motionless, gloomy silence.
THE FIRST NORN
What light glimmers there?
THE SECOND NORN
Is it already dawn?
THE THIRD NORN
Loge's host Glows in flame around the rock. It is night. Why spin we not, singing the while?
THE SECOND NORN [To the first.
Where for our spinning and singing Wilt thou fasten the rope?
THE FIRST NORN
[While she loosens a golden rope from herself and ties one end of it to a branch of the pine-tree.
I sing and wind the rope Badly or well, as may be. At the world-ash-tree Once I wove, When from the stem There bourgeoned strong The boughs of a sacred wood. In the shadows cool A fountain flowed; Wisdom whispered Low from its wave; Of holy things I sang. A dauntless God Came to drink at the well; For the draught he drank He paid with the loss of an eye. From the world-ash-tree Wotan broke a holy bough; From the bough he cut And shaped the shaft of a spear. As time rolled on the wood Wasted and died of the wound; Sere, leafless and barren, Wan withered the tree; Sadly the flow Of the fountain failed; Troubled grew My sorrowful song. And now no more At the world-ash-tree I weave; I needs must fasten Here on the pine-tree my rope. Sing, O sister— Catch as I throw— Canst thou tell us why?
THE SECOND NORN
[Winds the rope thrown to her round a projecting rock at the entrance of the cave.
Runes of treaties Well weighed and pondered Cut were by Wotan In the shaft, Which wielding, he swayed the world. A hero bold In fight then splintered the spear, The hallowed haft With its treaties cleaving in twain. Then bade Wotan Walhall's heroes Hew down the world-ash-tree Forthwith, Both the stem and boughs sere and barren. The ash-tree sank; Sealed was the fountain that flowed. Round the sharp edge Of the rock I wind the rope: Sing, O sister, Catch as I throw; Further canst thou tell?
The three Norns. See p. 103.
THE THIRD NORN
[Catching the rope and throwing the end behind her.
The castle stands By giants up reared. With the Gods and the holy Host of the heroes Wotan sits in his hall; And round the walls Hewn logs are heaped, High up-piled, Ready for burning: The world-ash-tree these were once. When the wood Flares up brightly and burns, In its fire Shall the fair hall be consumed. And then shall the high Gods' downfall Dawn in darkness for aye. Know ye yet more, Begin anew winding the rope; Again I throw it Back from the north. Spin and sing, O my sister.
[She throws the rope to the second Norn and the second throws it to the first, who loosens the rope from the bough and ties it on to another.
THE FIRST NORN
[Looking towards the back.
Is it the dawn, Or the firelight that flickers? Grief-darkened is my gaze. The holy past I can scarce remember, When Loge burst Of old into burning fire. Dost thou know how he fared?
THE SECOND NORN
[Winding the rope which has been thrown to her round the rock again.
Overcome by Wotan's Spear and its magic, Loge worked for the God; Then, to win his freedom, Gnawed with his tooth The solemn runes on the shaft. So with the potent Spell of the spear-point Wotan confined him Flaming where Brünnhilde slumbered. Canst thou tell us the end?
THE THIRD NORN
With the broken spear's Sharp-piercing splinters Wotan wounded The blazing one deep in the breast; Ravening fire Springs from the wound, And this is thrown 'Mid the world-ash-tree's Hewn logs heaped ready for burning. Would ye know When that will be, Wind, O sisters, the rope!
[She throws the rope back; the second Norn winds it up and throws it again to the first.
THE FIRST NORN
[Fastening the rope again.
The night wanes, Dark grows my vision; I cannot find The threads of the rope; The strands are twisted and loose. A horrible sight Wildly vexes mine eyes: Rhinegold That black Alberich stole. Knowest thou more thereof?
THE SECOND NORN
[With laborious haste winds the rope round the jagged rock at the mouth of the cave.
The rock's sharp edge Is cutting the rope; The threads loosen Their hold and grow slack; They droop tangled and frayed. From woe and wrath Rises the Nibelung's ring; A curse of revenge Ruthlessly gnaws at the strands:— Canst thou the end foretell?
THE THIRD NORN
[Hastily catching the rope which is thrown to her.
The rope is too short, Too loose it hangs; It must be stretched, Pulled straighter, before Its end can reach to the north!
[She pulls hard at the rope, which breaks.
It breaks!
THE SECOND NORN
It breaks!
THE FIRST NORN
It breaks!
[They take the pieces of broken rope and bind their bodies together with them.
THE THREE NORNS
So ends wisdom eternal! The wise ones Will utter no more. Descend to Erda! Descend!
[They vanish. The dawn grows brighter; the firelight from the valley gradually fades. Sunrise; then broad daylight.
Siegfried and Brünnhilde enter from the cave. He is fully armed; she leads her horse by the bridle.
BRÜNNHILDE
Belovèd hero, Poor my love were Wert thou thereby Kept from new deeds. One single doubt Yet makes me linger: The fear my service Has been too small. The things the Gods taught me I could give: All the rich hoard Of holy runes; But by the hero Who holds my heart I have been robbed Of my maiden valour. In wisdom weak, Although strong in will; In love so rich, In power so poor— Must thou not scorn Her lack of riches Who, though so eager, Can give nothing more?
The Norns vanish. See p. 108.
SIEGFRIED
Wonderful woman, more Thy gifts than I can guard! O chide not if thy teaching Has left me still untaught.
[With fire.
That Brünnhilde lives for me— To that lore I hold fast; And one lesson I have learned— Brünnhilde to remember!
BRÜNNHILDE
If thou wouldst truly love me, Think of thyself alone, And of thy deeds of daring! The raging fire remember That fearless thou didst fare through When around the rock it burned—
SIEGFRIED
That I might conquer Brünnhild'!
BRÜNNHILDE
Think too of the shield-hidden maid Thou didst find there lapped in slumber. And whose helmet hard thou didst break—
SIEGFRIED
Brünnhilde to awaken!
BRÜNNHILDE
Those oaths remember That unite us; The faith and truth That are between us, And evermore The love we live for; Brünnhilde in thy breast Will deeply burn then for aye!
[She embraces Siegfried.
SIEGFRIED
Must I leave thee, O love, In thy holy fortress of fire,
[He has taken Alberich's ring from his finger, and holds it out to Brünnhilde.
This ring of mine I give thee; Let it pay for thy runes. Of whatever deeds I did The virtue lies therein. By my hand was the dragon grim, Who long had guarded it, slain; Keep thou the gold and its might As token true of my love!
BRÜNNHILDE
[Putting on the ring in rapturous delight.
I covet it more than all else! For the ring take Grane, my horse. Through the air with me He galloped once boldly, But lost with mine Was his magic art; Upon clouds and storm, Through thunder and lightning No more Gallantly now will he sweep! But if thou lead the way, Even through fire Fearlessly Grane will follow. For henceforth, hero, Thou art his master! Entreat him well; He knows thy voice; O, greet him often In Brünnhilde's name!
SIEGFRIED
Then every deed that I dare Will be achieved through thy virtue All my battles thou wilt choose, And my victories will be thine. Upon thy good horse riding, And sheltered by thy shield, No longer Siegfried am I, But only Brünnhilde's arm!
Siegfried leaves Brünnhilde in search of adventure. See p. 111.
BRÜNNHILDE
O were but Brünnhilde thy soul too!
SIEGFRIED
Through her my courage burns high.
BRÜNNHILDE
Then wert thou Siegfried and Brünnhild'.
SIEGFRIED
Where I am, there thy abode is.
BRÜNNHILDE [With animation.
Then a waste is my hall of rock?
SIEGFRIED
Made one, both there abide.
BRÜNNHILDE [Greatly moved.
Ye Gods, O ye holy Race of immortals, Feast ye your eyes On this love-hallowed pair! Apart—who shall divide us? Divided—still we are one!
SIEGFRIED
Hail, O Brünnhilde, Beautiful star! Hail, love and its glory!
BRÜNNHILDE
Hail, O Siegfried, Conquering light! Hail, life and its glory! Hail, conquering light!
BOTH
Hail! Hail! Hail! Hail!
[Siegfried leads the horse quickly to the edge of the sloping rock, Brünnhilde following him. Siegfried disappears with the horse down behind the projecting rock, so that he is no longer visible to the audience. Brünnhilde is thus suddenly left standing alone on the edge of the slope, and gazes down into the valley after Siegfried. Her gestures show that Siegfried has vanished from her sight. Siegfried's horn is heard from below. Brünnhilde listens, and steps further out on the slope. She catches sight of Siegfried in the valley again, and waves to him joyfully. Her happy smiles seem to reflect the air of the merrily departing hero.
THE FIRST ACT
The hall of the Gibichungs on the Rhine. This is quite open at the back. An open shore stretching to the river occupies the background. Rocky heights enclose the shore. Gunther and Gutrune on a throne at one side, before which stands a table with drinking-vessels on it. In front of this Hagen is seated.
GUNTHER
Give ear, Hagen; Tell me the truth: Is my fame on the Rhine Worthy of Gibich's son?
HAGEN
I envy thee Thy fame and thy glory; Thy great renown was foretold To me by Grimhild' our mother.
GUNTHER
I envy thee, So envy not me. I, as first-born, rule, But the wisdom is thine. Half-brother's feud Could scarce be laid better; Asking thus of my renown, 'Tis thy wisdom that I praise.
HAGEN
My words I withdraw, Thy fame might be more: I know of precious treasures That the Gibichung has not yet won.
GUNTHER
Hide these, and I Withdraw my praise.
HAGEN
In summer's full-ripened glory Blooms the Gibich stock, Thou, Gunther, still unwived, Thou, Gutrun', still unwed.
GUNTHER
Whom wouldst thou have me woo, To win more wide renown?
HAGEN
One I know of, None nobler in the world. She dwells on soaring rocks, Her chamber is circled by fire; And he who would Brünnhild' woo Must break through the daunting flame.
GUNTHER
Suffices my strength for the task?
HAGEN
For one stronger still it is decreed.
GUNTHER
Who is that hero unmatched?
HAGEN
Siegfried, the Wälsung's son; He is the hero bold. A twin-born pair, Whom fate turned to lovers, Siegmund and Sieglinde, Had as their offspring this child. In the woods he grew and waxed strong. 'Tis he that Gutrun' must wed.
GUTRUNE [Shyly.
Tell me what deed of high valour Made this hero the first in renown.
HAGEN
At Neidhöhle A huge dragon lay, Who guarded the Nibelung's gold. He was slain, And his horrid jaws closed By Siegfried's invincible sword. From this colossal deed The fame of the hero dawned.
GUNTHER [Thoughtfully.
They say that a priceless treasure The Niblungs had in their hoard.
HAGEN
The man who could use its spell Were lord of the world evermore.
GUNTHER
And Siegfried won it in fight?
HAGEN
He has the Niblungs in thrall.
GUNTHER
And Brünnhild' no other can win?
HAGEN
To no other will the flames yield.
GUNTHER [Rises angrily from his seat.
Why wake dissension and doubt? Why stir up my desire And yearning for joys That cannot be won?
[He walks to and fro much agitated.
HAGEN
[Without leaving his seat causes Gunther to pull up as he approaches him, by a gesture of mysterious import.
Would not Brünnhilde Be thy bride, Were she by Siegfried brought home?
GUNTHER
[Turns away doubtful and angry.
But how could I force this man To woo the bride for me?
HAGEN [As before.
Thy simple prayer would force him, Gutrun' winning him first.
GUTRUNE
Thou mockest, cruel Hagen! What arts have I to bind him? The greatest hero In all the world Has long ere this by the fairest Women on earth been loved.
HAGEN
[Bending confidentially towards Gutrune.
What of the drink in the chest?
[More secretly.
In me who won it have more faith. To thee in love it will bind Him whom thy heart most desires.
[Gunther has come to the table again, and, leaning against it, pays close attention.
Hither did Siegfried come, And taste of this potion of herbs, He would straight forget he had looked On any woman before, Or been by woman approached. Now answer: Think ye my counsel good?
GUNTHER [Starting up suddenly.
Now Grimhild' be praised, Who for brother gave us thee.
GUTRUNE
Siegfried fain I would behold!
GUNTHER
But how can he be found?
[A horn on the stage, from the background on the left, very loud but distant.
HAGEN
[Listens and turns to Gunther.
Merrily hunting After renown Across the world As through a wood, Belike in his chase he will come, To the Gibich's realm on the Rhine.
GUNTHER
Heartily welcome were he.
[A horn on the stage, nearer, but still distant. Both listen.
A horn from the Rhine I hear.
HAGEN
[Looks down the river and calls towards the back.
A man and horse on board a boat! His horn how gaily he winds!
[A horn on the stage sounds nearer. Gunther stops half-way listening.
See the leisurely stroke, And the indolent arm Against the stream Urging the boat! So skilful a hand On the swinging oar Can be but his Who the dragon slew:— It is Siegfried—surely no other!
GUNTHER
Will he go by?
HAGEN
[Making a trumpet of his hands, calls towards the river.
Hoiho! Blithe hero, Whither bound?
SIEGFRIED [From the distance.
I seek the son of Gibich.
HAGEN
I bid thee welcome to Gunther's hall.
[Siegfried in a boat appears at the shore.
This way! Stop here and land!
Siegfried brings his boat to the shore. Hagen makes it fast with the chain. Siegfried springs ashore with his horse. Gunther has come down and joined Hagen.
HAGEN
Hail, Siegfried, hero bold!
[Gutrune gazes at Siegfried from the throne in astonishment. Gunther prepares to offer him friendly greetings. All stand fixed in silent mutual contemplation.
SIEGFRIED
[Leaning on his horse, remains quietly standing by the boat.
Who is Gibich's son?
GUNTHER
I am he thou dost seek.
SIEGFRIED
Thy fame has reached me From the Rhine; Now fight with me, Or be my friend.
GUNTHER
Be thou mine; Thou art welcome!
SIEGFRIED
Where stable my horse?
HAGEN
Leave him to me.
SIEGFRIED [Turning to Hagen.
My name thou knowest; Where have we met?
HAGEN
I guessed from thy strength Who thou must be.
SIEGFRIED
[As he hands over the horse to Hagen.
Be careful of Grane, For thou hast never Led by the rein So noble a steed.
[Hagen leads the horse away. While Siegfried looks thoughtfully after him, Gutrune, obeying a sign of Hagen's which Siegfried does not notice, goes to her room through a door on the left. Gunther comes into the hall with Siegfried, whom he has invited to accompany him.
GUNTHER
My father's ancient hall, O hero, greet in gladness! All thou beholdest, Where'er thou art, Treat as thine own henceforward: Thine is my kingdom— Land and folk; By my body I swear it! Yea, myself I am thine.
SIEGFRIED
Nor land nor folk have I to give, Nor father's house nor hall; In my body Is all my wealth; As I live it grows less. But a sword have I Which I welded; Let my sword be my witness!— That and myself I bestow.
HAGEN
[Who has come back and now stands behind Siegfried.
Of the Nibelungs' treasure Rumour names thee the lord.
SIEGFRIED
[Turning round to Hagen.
I almost forgot the hoard, So lightly I prize its worth. I left it lying in a cavern, Where a dragon once held watch.
HAGEN
And nothing took at all?
SIEGFRIED
Only this, not knowing its use.
HAGEN
It is the Tarnhelm, The gem of the Nibelung's art; Its use, when worn on thy head, Is to change thy shape as thou wilt; If fain to be borne afar, In a flash lo! thou art there! Didst thou take nothing besides?
SIEGFRIED
Yes, a ring.
HAGEN
Which safe thou dost hold?
SIEGFRIED [Tenderly.
'Tis held by a woman fair.
HAGEN [Aside.
Brünnhild'!
GUNTHER
Nay, Siegfried, let us not barter; All I have a bauble poor, Matched with thy treasure, would be. I will serve thee without reward.
[Hagen has gone to Gutrune's door, and now opens it.
GUTRUNE
[Enters carrying a full drinking-horn, with which she approaches Siegfried.
Welcome, O guest, To Gibich's house! 'Tis his daughter gives thee to drink.
SIEGFRIED
[Bows in a friendly manner and takes the horn, which he holds thoughtfully before him.
Were all forgot Thou gavest to me, One lesson I will never forget; So this first draught With love undying, Brünnhild', I drink to thee!
[He puts the drinking-horn to his lips and takes a long draught; then he hands it back to Gutrune, who, ashamed and confused, casts down her eyes. Siegfried gazes at her with sudden passion.
SIEGFRIED
O thou who dost scorch And blind with thine eyes, Why sink them abashed by my gaze?
[Gutrune, blushing, looks up at him.
O lovely maid, Lower thine eyes; My heart is aflame, Burnt by their light; They kindle my blood; it flows In devouring torrents of fire.
[With a trembling voice.
Gunther, what name is thy sister's?
GUNTHER
Gutrune.
SIEGFRIED [Softly.
Can those be good runes That in her eyes I am reading?
[He ardently seizes Gutrune's hand.
With thy brother I was fain to serve; His pride my prayer scorned. Were I to pray the same of thee, Wouldst thou like him be proud?
[Gutrune involuntarily meets Hagen's eye. She bows her head humbly, and, expressing her feeling of unworthiness with a gesture, leaves the hall with faltering steps.
SIEGFRIED
[Attentively watched by Hagen and Gunther, gazes after Gutrune as if entranced.
Gunther, hast thou a wife?
GUNTHER
I am not wed, Nor, it would seem, Likely to find a wife! My heart on one I have set Whom there is no way to win.
SIEGFRIED
[Turns with animation to Gunther.
In what canst thou fail With me for friend?
GUNTHER
On rocky heights her home; Surrounded by fire her hall;
SIEGFRIED
[Interrupting in wondering haste.
"On rocky heights her home; Surrounded by fire her hall"...?
GUNTHER
He only who braves the fire...
SIEGFRIED
[As if making an intense effort to remember something.
"He only who braves the fire"...?
Siegfried hands the drinking-horn back to Gutrune, and gazes at her with sudden passion. See p. 119.
GUNTHER
May Brünnhilde's wooer be.
[Siegfried shows by a gesture that at the mention of Brünnhilde's name all remembrance of her has faded.
I dare not essay the dread mountain; The flames would not fall for me.
SIEGFRIED
[Awakes from his dreamy state, and turns to Gunther high-spirited and gay.
For thee I will win her, Of fire I have no fear; For thy man am I, And my strength is thine, If Gutrun' I win as my wife.
GUNTHER
Gutrune gladly I grant thee
SIEGFRIED
Thou shalt have Brünnhilde then.
GUNTHER
But how wilt deceive her?
SIEGFRIED
I will wear the Tarnhelm And appear in thy form.
GUNTHER
Then let the oath now be sworn!
SIEGFRIED
Blood-brotherhood Sworn be by oath!
[Hagen fills a drinking-horn with fresh wine; he holds it out to Siegfried and Gunther, who cut their arms with their swords and hold them for a short pace over the horn; then they each lay two fingers on the horn, which Hagen continues to hold between them.
SIEGFRIED and GUNTHER
Quickening blood Of blossoming life Lo! I drop in the horn! Bravely mixed In brotherly love, Bloom our blood in the draught! Troth I drink to the friend Glad and free To-day from the bond Blood-brotherhood spring! But if broken the bond, Or if faithless the friend, What in drops to-day We drink kindly In torrents wildly shall flow, Paying treachery's wage. So—sealed be the bond! So—pledged be my faith!
[Gunther drinks and hands the horn to Siegfried, who finishes the draught, and holds out the empty horn to Hagen. Hagen breaks the horn in two with his sword. Gunther and Siegfried join hands.
SIEGFRIED
[Observes Hagen, who, while the oat was being sworn, has stood behind him.
Why hast not thou plighted thy troth?
HAGEN
My blood had soured the good draught. It flows not pure And noble like yours; Stubborn and cold, Slow it runs, My cheek refusing to redden. I hold aloof From hot-blooded bonds.
GUNTHER [To Siegfried.
Heed not him and his spleen.
SIEGFRIED
[Puts on his shield again.
Up, then, and off! Back to the boat! Sail swift to the mountain!
[He steps nearer to Gunther and points at him.
By the bank one night On board thou shalt tarry, And then bring home the bride.
[He turns to go, and beckons Gunther to follow him.
GUNTHER
Wilt thou not rest awhile?
SIEGFRIED
I am eager to be back.
[He goes to the shore to unmoor the boat.
GUNTHER
Thou, Hagen, keep guard o'er the homestead.
[He follows Siegfried to the shore. Whilst Siegfried and Gunther, after laying their arms in the boat, are hoisting the sail and making ready for departure, Hagen takes up his spear and shield. Gutrune appears at the door of her chamber just as Siegfried is pushing off the boat, which immediately glides into the middle of the stream.
GUTRUNE
So swiftly whither haste they?
HAGEN
[While he seats himself comfortably with shield and spear in front of the hall.
To woo Brünnhild' for bride.
GUTRUNE
Siegfried?
Hagen
See how he hastes, For wife seeking to win thee!
GUTRUNE
Siegfried—mine?
[She returns to her room greatly excited. Siegfried has seized an oar and rows the boat down-stream, so that it is soon lost to view.
HAGEN
[Sits motionless, his back against the door-post of the hall.
On guard here I sit Watching the house, Warding the hall from the foe: Gibich's son Is sped by the wind, And sails away for a wife; A hero bold Of the helm has charge, And danger braves for his sake; His bride once loved He brings to the Rhine; With her he brings me—the ring. O merry comrades, Freeborn and honoured, Gaily speed on in your pride! Base though ye deem him, The Niblung's son Shall yet be your lord.
[A curtain which frames the front of the hall is drawn, and cuts the stage off from the audience.
The curtain is raised again. The rocky height as in the Prelude. Brünnhilde sits at the entrance to the cave in silent contemplation of Siegfried's ring. Moved by blissful memories, she covers the ring with kisses. Distant thunder is heard; she looks up and listens. She turns to the ring again. A flash of lightning. Again she listens, and looks into the distance, whence a dark thunder-cloud is approaching the rock.
BRÜNNHILDE
On my ear from afar Falls an old sound familiar. A horse comes flying Swift through the air; On the clouds it sweeps In storm to the rock. Who seeks the lonely one here?
WALTRAUTE'S voice [From the distance.
Brünnhilde, sister, Wake if thou sleepest!
Brünnhilde kisses the ring that Siegfried has left with her. See p. 124.
BRÜNNHILDE [Starts from her seat.
Waltraute's call! How welcome the sound!
[Calling to the wing, and then hastening to the edge of the rock.
Dost thou, sister, Boldly swinging come this way? In the wood— Still dear to thee— Halt and dismount, And leave thy courser to rest.
[She runs into the wood, from which a loud sound like a thunder-clap is heard. She returns in great agitation with Waltraute, and remains joyfully excited without noticing the latter's anxious fear.
Art thou so bold That thou art come Brünnhild' to greet, Thy love unconquered by dread?
WALTRAUTE
Thou alone Art cause of my haste!
WALTRAUTE
For Brünnhild's sake War-father's ban Hast thou thus bravely broken? Or perchance—O say!—
[With some hesitation.
Has he at last Softened to his child? When against the God I sought to shield Siegmund, Vainly—I know it— My deed fulfilled his desire. And I know that his anger Was assuaged, For albeit in slumber deep Here to the rock I was bound, Doomed to be thrall to the man Who should wake the maid as he passed, To my anguished prayer He granted grace; With ravening fire He surrounded the rock, To bar to all cowards the road. Bane and chastisement Turned so to blessing; A hero unmatched Has won me as wife; Blest by his love, In light and laughter I live.
[She embraces Waltraute with wild manifestations of joy, which the latter tries with anxious impatience to repress.
Hast thou been lured by my lot, And wouldst thou, sister, Feast on my gladness, Sharing in my delight?
WALTRAUTE [Vehemently.
Sharing the frenzy That has maddened thee, fool! Far other the cause why I come, Defying Wotan in fear.
BRÜNNHILDE
[Here, for the first time, notices with surprise Waltraute's wildly excited state.
Art afraid? Anguished with terror? So the stern one does not forgive? Thou fearest his punishing wrath?
WALTRAUTE [Gloomily.
Might I but fear it, At an end were my distress.
BRÜNNHILDE
I am perplexed and amazed.
WALTRAUTE
Calm thou thy frenzy; Mark with care what I say! The fear that drove me Hither to thee Drives me back to Walhall again.
BRÜNNHILDE [Alarmed.
What ails, then, the Gods everlasting?
WALTRAUTE
Give earnest heed to what I tell thee! Since from thee Wotan parted, No more has he sent Us to battle; Anxious and bewildered We rode to the field. Shunned are Walhall's bold heroes By Warfather; Riding alone, Without pause or rest He wandered and roamed through the world. At last he returned With his spear splintered; In his hand the pieces; A hero had cleft it asunder. With silent sign Walhall's heroes Then he sent forth To hew down the world-ash-tree. He bade them pile The logs as they hewed them, Until they were heaped High round the hall of the blest. The Gods he next Called to a council; The high seat He solemnly took, Bidding them Who gathered in fear sit beside him. The heroes filled The hall, ranged round in their order. So sits he, Speaks no word, Upon his high seat Grave and mute, The splintered spear Held fast in his hand, Holda's apples Touching no more. Fear and amazement Hold the Gods fast fettered. He has sent his ravens Forth to seek tidings; If they return And bring him comforting news, Then the God will With soul serene Smile evermore and be glad. Round his knees in sorrow Twined lie the Valkyries; He heeds not Our glances beseeching; By terror and wild anguish We all are consumed. Against his breast Weeping I nestled, Then soft grew his gaze: He remembered, Brünnhilde, thee. He closed his eyes As if dreaming, Heavily sighed And whispered these words: "If to the deep Rhine's daughters She would restore the ring that was theirs. From the grievous curse Both God and world were freed!' Then I took thought, And from his side Through the silent ranks Stole noiselessly forth. In haste, unseen, I mounted my horse, And stormed in tumult to thee. Grant, O sister, The boon I beg; What thou canst do, Undaunted perform! End thou the grief of the Gods!
The ravens of Wotan. See p. 128.
[She has thrown herself down before Brünnhilde.
BRÜNNHILDE [Quietly.
What dreadful dream-born fancies, Sad one, are those thou dost tell? The high Gods' holy And cloud-paved heaven Is no longer my home. I grasp not what thou art saying; Dark its sense, Wild and confused. Within thine eyes, So over-weary, Gleams wavering fire; With thy wan visage, O pale-faced sister, What wouldst thou, wild one, of me?
WALTRAUTE [Vehemently.
The ring upon thy hand— 'Tis that: ah, be implored! For Wotan fling it away!
BRÜNNHILDE
The ring—away?
WALTRAUTE
To the Rhine-daughters give it again.
BRÜNNHILDE
The Rhine-daughters—I—the ring? Siegfried's love-pledge? Hast thou gone crazy?
WALTRAUTE
Hear me! Hear my despair! On this hangs The world's undoing and woe. Throw it from thee Into the water; End the anguish of Walhall; The accurst thing cast in the waves!
BRÜNNHILDE
Ha! dost thou know what 'twould mean How shouldst thou, Maid unloving and cold! Much is Walhall's rapture, Much is the fame of the Gods; More is my ring. One glance at its shining gold, One flash of its sacred fire Is more precious Than bliss of all the Gods Enduring for aye! For Siegfried's dear love Shines from it bright and blessèd. Love of Siegfried! Ah, could I but utter the rapture Bound up in the ring! Go back to the holy Council of Gods; Repeat what I have told thee Of my ring: That love I will not forswear, Of love they never shall rob me; Sooner shall Walhall's glory Perish and pass!
"The ring upon thy hand— ... ah, be implored! For Wotan fling it away!" See p. 129.
WALTRAUTE
This is thy faith, then? To her sorrow Thus coldly thou leavest thy sister?
BRÜNNHILDE
Up and away! Swiftly to horse! I will not part with the ring.
WALTRAUTE
Woe's me! Woe's me! Woe to thee, sister! Woe to Walhall's Gods!
[She rushes away. A storm-cloud immediately rises from the wood, accompanied by thunder.
BRÜNNHILDE
[As she looks after the brightly lit, retreating thunder-cloud, which soon vanishes in the distance.
Borne by the wind In storm and lightning, Haste away, cloud, And may I see thee no more!
[Twilight has fallen. The light of the fire gradually shines more brightly from below. She gazes quietly out on the landscape.
Eventide shadows Dim the heavens, And more brightly The flames that encircle me glow.
[The firelight approaches from below. Ever-brightening tongues of flame shoot up over the edge of the rock.
Why leap so wildly The billows that blaze round the rock? Up here to the peak Surges the fiery flood!
[Siegfried's horn is heard from the valley. Brünnhilde starts up in delight.
Siegfried? Siegfried returned? With his horn greeting he sends! Up! Out to the welcome! Swift to my God's embrace!
[She hastens joyfully to the edge of the crag. Flames leap up, out of which Siegfried springs forward on to a high rock, whereupon the flames immediately withdraw and again only shine up from below. Brünnhilde recoils in terror, flies to the foreground, and from there, in speechless astonishment, stares at Siegfried, who, wearing the Tarnhelm, which covers the upper half of his face, leaving only his eyes free, appears in Gunther's form.
BRÜNNHILDE
Betrayed! Who seeks me here?
SIEGFRIED
[Remaining on the rock at the back, motionless and leaning on his shield, regards Brünnhilde. In a feigned (harsher) voice.
Brünnhild'! A wooer comes Whom thy fire did not dismay. I want thee for my wife; Consent to follow me!
BRÜNNHILDE [Trembling violently.
What man has done This deed undaunted That the boldest only dares?
SIEGFRIED [As before.
A hero who will tame Thy pride by force at need.
BRÜNNHILDE
A monster stands Upon yonder stone; An eagle has come To rend me in pieces! Who art thou, frightful one? Art thou a mortal, Or dost thou hie From Hella's dark host?
SIEGFRIED
[As before, beginning with a slightly tremulous voice, but continuing with more confidence.
A Gibichung am I, And Gunther is his name Whom thou must follow hence.
BRÜNNHILDE
[Breaking out in despair.
Wotan! Thou cruel, Merciless God! Woe! Now I see How thine anger works! To scorn and sorrow I am condemned.
SIEGFRIED
[Springs down from the stone and approaches.
Night falls apace; Within thy cave Thou must receive thy husband.
BRÜNNHILDE
[Stretching out with a threatening gesture the finger on which she wears Siegfried's ring.
Stand back! Fear thou this token! While I am shielded by this, Thou canst not force me to shame.
SIEGFRIED
Wife it shall make thee to Gunther; With this ring thou shalt be wed.
BRÜNNHILDE
Stand back, base robber! Impious thief! Nor dare, overbold, to draw near! Stronger than steel Made by the ring, I never will yield!
SIEGFRIED
That it must be mine I learn from thy lips.
[He presses towards her. There is a struggle. Brünnhilde wrenches herself free, flies and turns round as if to defend herself. Siegfried seizes her again. She flies; he reaches her. They wrestle violently together. Siegfried catches her hand and draws the ring from her finger. She gives a loud scream. As she sinks helpless into his arms her unconscious look meets Siegfried's eyes. Siegfried lays her fainting on the stone bench at the entrance to the cave.
SIEGFRIED
Now thou art mine! Brünnhilde, Gunther's bride, Lead me the way to thy cave!
BRÜNNHILDE
[Stares, as if fainting, before her; exhausted.
O woman undone, Where now thy defence?
SIEGFRIED
[Drives her on with a gesture of command. Trembling and with tottering steps she goes into the cave.
Now, Nothung, witness thou That chastely I have wooed, And loyal been to my brother; Lie betwixt me and his bride!
[He follows Brünnhilde. The curtain falls. In his natural voice.
THE SECOND ACT
An open space on the shore in front of the Gibichungs' hall; to the right the open entrance to the hall, to the left the bank of the Rhine. From the latter, crossing the stage and mounting towards the back, rises a rocky height, cut by several mountain-paths. There an altar-stone to Fricka is visible, as well as one, higher up, to Wotan, and one at the side to Donner. It is night. Hagen, his arm round his spear and his shield by his side, fits against one of the pillars of the hall asleep. The moon shines out suddenly and throws a vivid light on Hagen and his immediate surroundings. Alberich is seen crouching in front of him, leaning his arms on Hagen's knees.
ALBERICH [Softly.
Hagen, son, art asleep? Betrayed by drowsiness And rest thou dost not hear?
HAGEN
[Softly, without moving, so that he seems to sleep on although his eyes are open.
I hear thee, O baleful Niblung; What wouldst thou tell me while I slumber?
ALBERICH
Remember the might Thou art endowed with, If thou art valiant As thy mother bore thee to me.
HAGEN [Still as before:
Though courage she bestowed, I have no cause to thank her For falling under thy spell; Soon old, wan and pale, Hating the happy, Where is my joy?
ALBERICH [As before.
Hagen, my son, Hate thou the happy; This joyless and Sorrow-laden one, Him alone thou shalt love. Be thou strong And bold and wise! Those whom with weapons Of darkness we fight Already our hate has dismayed. And he who captured my ring, Wotan, the ravening robber, By one of his sons In fight has been vanquished; He has lost Through the Wälsung power and might. With the whole immortal race He awaits in anguish his downfall. Him I fear no more: He and all his must perish! Hagen, son, art asleep?
HAGEN
[Remains motionless as before.
The might of the Gods Who then shall wield?
ALBERICH
I—and thou! The world we shall own, If in thy truth I rightly trust, Sharest thou my hate and wrath. Wotan's spear Was splintered by Siegfried, The hero who won As booty the ring When Fafner, the dragon, he slew. Power supreme He has attained to;
The wooing of Grimhilde, the mother of Hagen. See p. 135
[Still mysteriously.
Walhall and Nibelheim bow to his will. On this hero undaunted My curse falls in vain, For he knows not The ring's true worth, Nor makes use Of its wonderful spell; Laughing he burns life away, Caring only for love. Nothing can serve us But his undoing! Sleepest, Hagen, my son?
HAGEN [As before.
Already he speeds Through me to his doom.
ALBERICH
The golden ring— 'Tis that that we must capture! The Wälsung By a wise woman is loved. If, urged by her, To the Rhine's fair daughters —Who bewitched me once Below in the waves— The stolen ring he restored, Forever lost were the gold, And no guile could win it again. Wherefore with ardour Aim for the ring. I gat thee A stranger to fear, That against heroes Thou mightst uphold me. I had not the strength, Indeed, to despatch, Like the Wälsung, Fafner in fight; But I reared Hagen To deadly hatred, And he shall avenge me— Shall win the ring, Putting Wälsung and Wotan to scorn! Swear to me, Hagen, my son!
[From this point Alberich is covered by an ever-deepening shadow. At the same time day begins to dawn.
HAGEN [Still as before.
The ring shall be mine yet; Quietly wait!
ALBERICH
Swear to me, Hagen, my son!
HAGEN
To myself swear I; Make thy mind easy!
ALBERICH
[Still gradually disappearing, and his voice, as he does so, becoming more and more inaudible.
Be true, Hagen, my son! Trusty hero, be true! Be true!—True!
[Alberich has quite disappeared. Hagen, who has never changed position, looks with fixed eyes and without moving towards the Rhine, over which the light of dawn is spreading.
"Swear to me, Hagen, my son!" See p. 138
The gradually brightening red of dawn is reflected in the Rhine. Siegfried steps out suddenly from behind a bush close to the shore. He appears in his own shape, but has the Tarnhelm on his head still; he takes this off and, as he comes forward, hangs it on his girdle.
SIEGFRIED
Hoioh! Hagen! Weary man! Where is thy welcome?
HAGEN [Rising in a leisurely fashion.
Hei! Siegfried? Swift-footed hero, Whence stormest thou now?
SIEGFRIED
From Brünnhilde's rock. 'Twas there that I drew the breath I called to thee with; A quick passage I made! Slower behind me a pair On board a vessel come.
HAGEN
Hast thou won Brünnhild'?
SIEGFRIED
Wakes Gutrune?
HAGEN [Calling towards the hall.
Hoiho! Gutrune! Haste and come! Siegfried is here. Why dost delay?
SIEGFRIED Turning to the hall.
How Brünnhild' yielded Ye shall both be told.
[Gutrune comes from the hall to meet him.
SIEGFRIED
Give me fair greeting, Gibich's child! I come to thee with joyful news.
GUTRUNE
Freia greet thee To the honour of all women!
SIEGFRIED
To thy lover glad Be gracious; For wife I have won thee to-day.
GUTRUNE
Comes then Brünnhild' with my brother?
SIEGFRIED
None ever wooed with more ease.
GUTRUNE
Was he not scorched by the fire?
SIEGFRIED
It had not burnt him, I trow; But I broke through it instead, That I for wife might win thee.
GUTRUNE
And no harm didst thou take?
SIEGFRIED
I laughed 'mid the surge of the flames.
GUTRUNE
Did Brünnhild' think thee Gunther?
SIEGFRIED
Like were we to a hair; The Tarnhelm saw to that, As Hagen truly foretold.
HAGEN
I gave thee counsel good.
GUTRUNE
And so the bold maid was tamed?
SIEGFRIED
Her pride—Gunther broke.
GUTRUNE
Did she give herself to thee?
SIEGFRIED
Through the night the vanquished Brünnhild' To her rightful husband belonged.
GUTRUNE
For her husband thou didst pass?
SIEGFRIED
By Gutrune sojourned Siegfried.
GUTRUNE
But 'twas Brünnhild' lay beside thee.
SIEGFRIED [Pointing to his sword.
Far as north from east and west, So far was Brünnhild' removed.
GUTRUNE
But how got Gunther his wife from thee?
SIEGFRIED
Through the flames of the fire as they faded, When day dawned, through the mist She followed me down the hill; When near the shore, None observing, I gave Gunther my place, And by the Tarnhelm's magic Wished myself straight to thee. A strong wind drives the lovers Merrily down the Rhine; Prepare to greet them with joy.
GUTRUNE
Siegfried! Such is thy might, I am afraid of thee!
HAGEN [Calling from the shore.
I can see a sail in the distance.
SIEGFRIED
Now be the envoy thanked!
GUTRUNE
Let us give her gracious greeting, That glad and gay she here may tarry! Thou, Hagen, prithee Summon the men To the hall here for the wedding, While blithe maids To the feast I bid; Our joy they will merrily share.
[As she goes towards the hall she turns round again.
Wilt thou rest, wicked man?
SIEGFRIED
Helping thee is rest enough.
[He gives her his hand and accompanies her into the hall.
HAGEN
[Has mounted a rock at the back, and starts blowing his cow-horn.
Hoiho! Hoiho! Hoho! Ye Gibich vassals, Up and prepare! Woeful tidings! Weapons! Weapons! Arm through the land! Goodly weapons, Mighty weapons Sharp for strife! Dire the strait! Woe! Danger! Danger! Hoiho! Hoiho! Hoho!
[Hagen remains where he is on the rock. Armed men arrive in haste by different paths; first singly, and then in larger and larger groups.
THE VASSALS
Why sounds the horn? Who calls us to arms? We come with our arms? We come with our weapons. Hagen! Hagen! Hoiho! Hoiho! Who hath suffered scathe? Say, what foe is nigh? Who forces war? Is Gunther sore pressed? We come with our weapons, With weapons keen! Hoiho! Ho! Hagen!
HAGEN [Still from the rock.
Come fully armed Without delay! Welcome Gunther, your lord: A wife Gunther has wooed.
THE VASSALS
Is he in straits, Pressed by the foe?
HAGEN
A woman hard won With him he brings.
THE VASSALS
Her kinsmen and vassals Follow for vengeance?
HAGEN
No one follows But his bride.
THE VASSALS
Then the peril is past, And the foe put to flight?
HAGEN
The dragon-slayer Helped him at need; Siegfried, the hero, Kept him from harm.
THE VASSALS
How then can his vassals avail him? And why hast callèd us here?
HAGEN
Sturdy oxen Ye shall slaughter; On Wotan's altar Their blood be shed!
THE VASSALS
And after that, Hagen? Say, what next?
HAGEN
After that for Froh A boar ye shall fell, And a full-grown and strong He-goat for Donner; But for Fricka Sheep ye shall slaughter, That she may smile on the marriage!
THE VASSALS
[With increasing cheerfulness.
What shall we do When the beasts we have slain?
HAGEN
The drink-horn take That women sweet With wine and mead Blithely have filled.
THE VASSALS
The drink-horn in hand, What task awaits us still?
HAGEN
Gaily carouse Until tamed by wine: Drink, that the Gods, duly honoured, Grace may accord to this marriage.
THE VASSALS
[Burst into ringing laughter.
Good luck and joy Laugh on the Rhine, If Hagen, the grim one, So merrily jests! To wedding-feasts Hagen invites; His prick the hedge-thorn, Hagen, has lost!
HAGEN
[Who has remained very grave, has come down to the men, and now stands among them.
Now cease from laughing, Doughty vassals! Receive Gunther's bride; Yonder come Brünnhild' and he.
[He points towards the Rhine. Some of the men hurry to the height; others range themselves on the shore to watch the arrival. Hagen goes up to some of the men.
Be to your lady Loyal and true; Suffers she wrong, Swiftly avenge her!
[He turns slowly aside and moves towards the back. The boat arrives with Gunther and Brünnhilde. Those who have been looking out from the height come down to the shore. Some vassals spring into the water and pull the boat to land. All press closer to the bank.
THE VASSALS
Hail! Hail! Hail! Be greeted! Be greeted! Welcome, O Gunther! Hail! Hail! Hail!
[Gunther steps out of the boat with Brünnhilde.
THE VASSALS
[Range themselves respectfully to receive them.
Welcome, Gunther! Health to thee and to thy bride!
[They strike their weapons loudly together.
GUNTHER
[Presenting Brünnhilde, who follows him with pale face and lowered eyes, to the men.
Brünnhild', a peerless bride, Here to the Rhine I bring. No man ever won A nobler woman! The Gods have shown from of old Grace to the Gibichung stock. To fame unmatched Now may it mount!
THE VASSALS [Solemnly clash their weapons.
Hail! O hail, happy Gibichung!
GUNTHER
[Leads Brünnhilde, who never raises her eyes, to the hall, from which Siegfried and Gutrune, attended by women, now come forth. Gunther stops before the hall.
Dear hero, greetings glad! I greet thee, fair sister! By him who won thee for wife I joyfully see thee stand. Two happy pairs Here radiant are shining:
[He draws Brünnhilde forward.
Brünnhild'—and Gunther, Gutrun'—and Siegfried.
[Brünnhilde, startled, looks up and sees Siegfried. Her eyes remain fixed on him in amazement. Gunther, who has released her violently trembling hand, shows, as do all present, blank astonishment at her behaviour.
THE VASSALS and WOMEN
What ails her? Has she gone mad?
SIEGFRIED
[Goes a few steps towards Brünnhilde, who has begun to tremble.
Why looks Brünnhild' amazed?
BRÜNNHILDE [Scarcely able to control herself.
Siegfried ... here? Gutrune....
SIEGFRIED
Gunther's gentle sister, Wed to me As thou to him.
BRÜNNHILDE [With fearful vehemence.
I? Gunther? 'Tis false.
[She sways and seems about to fall. Siegfried supports her.
Light fades from mine eyes. ..
[In Siegfried's arms, looking faintly up at him.
Siegfried ... knows me not?
SIEGFRIED
Gunther, see, thy wife is swooning!
[Gunther comes to them.
Wake, Brünnhild', wake! Here stands thy husband.
BRÜNNHILDE
[Perceives the ring on Siegfried's outstretched finger, and starts up with terrible vehemence.
Ha! The ring Upon his hand! He ... Siegfried?
THE VASSALS
What's wrong?
HAGEN
[Coming among the vassals from behind.
Now pay good heed To the woman's tale.
BRÜNNHILDE
[Mastering her terrible excitement, tries to control herself.
On thy hand there I beheld a ring. 'Twas wrested from me By this man here;
[Pointing to Gunther.
'Tis not thine. How earnest thou by The ring thou hast on?
SIEGFRIED
[Attentively regarding the ring on his finger.
'Twas not from him I got the ring.
BRÜNNHILDE [To Gunther.
Thou who didst seize the ring With which I wedded thee, Declare to him thy right, Make him yield up the pledge!
GUNTHER [In great perplexity.
The ring? No ring I gave him, Though thou dost know it well.
BRÜNNHILDE
Where hast thou hid the ring That thou didst capture from me?
[Gunther, greatly confused, does not answer.
BRÜNNHILDE [Breaking out furiously.
Ha! He it was Who despoiled me of the ring— Siegfried, the treacherous thief!
[All look expectantly at Siegfried, who seems to be lost in far-off thoughts as he contemplates the ring.
SIEGFRIED
No woman gave The ring to me, Nor did I wrest it From a woman's grasp. This ring, I know, Was the booty won When at Neidhöhl' boldly I fought, And the mighty dragon was slain.
HAGEN
[Stepping between them.
Brünnhild', dauntless queen, Knowest thou this ring well? If it was by Gunther won, Then it is his, And Siegfried has got it by guile. For his guilt must the traitor pay.
BRÜNNHILDE [Shrieking in terrible anguish.
Betrayed! Betrayed! Shamefully betrayed! Deceived! Deceived! Wrong too deep for revenge!
GUTRUNE
A wrong? To whom?
VASSALS and WOMEN
Deceit? To whom?
BRÜNNHILDE
Holy Gods! Ye heavenly rulers! Whispered ye this In councils dark? If I must bear More than ever was borne, Bowed by a shame None ever endured, Teach me such vengeance As never was raved! Kindle such wrath As can never be calmed! Order Brünnhild's Poor heart to be broken, Bring ye but doom On him who betrayed!
GUNTHER
Brünnhild', dear wife, Control thyself!
BRÜNNHILDE
Away, betrayer! Self-betrayed one! All of you, hearken! Not he, But that man there, Won me to wife.
VASSALS and WOMEN
Siegfried? Gutrune's lord?
BRÜNNHILDE
He forced delight And love from me.
SIEGFRIED
Dost thou so lightly Hold thine honour, The tongue that thus defames it I must convict of its falsehood. Hear whether faith I broke! Blood-brotherhood I have sworn unto Gunther; Nothung, my trusty sword, Guarded the sacred vow; 'Twixt me and this sad woman distraught Its blade lay sharp.
BRÜNNHILDE
Behold how thou liest, Crafty man, Vainly as witness Citing thy sword! Full well I know its keenness, And also the scabbard Wherein so snugly Hung on the wall Nothung, the faithful friend, When its lord won the woman he loved.
VASSALS and WOMEN
[Crowd together in violent indignation.
What! Siegfried a traitor? Has he stained Gunther's honour?
GUNTHER [To Siegfried.
Disgraced were I And sullied my name, Were not the slander Cast in her teeth!
GRUTUNE
Siegfried faithless? False to his vow? Ah, prove thou that worthless Is her word!
THE VASSALS
Clear thyself straight; If thou art wronged Silence the slander; Sworn be the oath!
SIEGFRIED
If I must swear, The slander to still, Which of you offers His sword for the oath?
HAGEN
Swear the oath upon The point of my spear; Bad faith 'twill surely avenge.
[The vassals form a ring round Siegfried and Hagen. Hagen holds out the spear; Siegfried lays two fingers of his right hand upon the point.
SIEGFRIED
Shining steel! Weapon most holy, Witness my oath sworn for ever! On this spear's sharp point I solemnly swear; Spear-point, mark thou my words! If weapon must pierce me, Thine be the point! When by death I am stricken Strike thou the blow, If what she tells is true, And I broke faith with my friend!
BRÜNNHILDE
[Strides furiously into the ring, tears Siegfried's hand from the spear, and grasps the point with her own.
Shining steel! Weapon most holy, Witness my oath sworn for ever! On this spear's sharp point I solemnly swear! Spear-point, mark thou my words! Devoted be thy might To his undoing! Be thy sharpness blessed by me, That it may slay him! For broken his oaths have been all, And false is what he has sworn.
THE VASSALS
Help, Donner! Roar with thy thunder To silence this terrible shame!
SIEGFRIED
Gunther, look to this woman Who falsely slanders thy name. Let her rest awhile, The untamed mountain maid, That the unbridled rage some demon In malice has Against us roused May have the chance to subside. Ye vassals, go ye your ways; Let the womenfolk scold. Like cravens gladly we yield, Comes it to fighting with tongues.
[He goes up to Gunther.
Thou art not so vexed as I That I beguiled her ill; The Tarnhelm must, I fear, But half have hid my face. Still, women's wrath Soon is appeased: That I won her for thee Thankful thy wife will be yet.
[He turns again to the vassals.
Follow me, men, With mirth to the feast!
[To the women.
Gaily, women, Help at the wedding! Joyfully laugh Love and delight! In hall and grove There shall be none This day more merry than I! Ye whom love has blessed, Like myself light-hearted, Follow and share in my mirth!
[He throws his arm in the highest spirits round Gutrune and draws her into the hall. The vassals and women follow, carried away by his example. All go off, except Brünnhilde, Gunther, and Hagen. Gunther, in deep shame and dejection, with his face covered, has seated himself on one side. Brünnhilde, standing in the foreground, gazes for some time sorrowfully after Siegfried and Gutrune, then droops her head.
BRÜNNHILDE [Lost in thought.
What dread demon's might Moves here in darkness? By what wizard's spell Worked was the woe? How weak is my wisdom Faced by this puzzle! And where shall I find The runes for this riddle? Oh, sorrow! Sorrow! Woe's me! Woe's me! I gave all my wisdom to him;
[With increasing emotion.
The maid in his power He holds. Fast in his fetters Bound is the booty That, weeping her grievous shame, Gaily to others he gives! Will none of you lend a sword With which I may sever my bonds?
HAGEN
[Going close to Brünnhilde.
Leave that to me, O wife betrayed; I will avenge Thy trust deceived.
BRÜNNHILDE [Looking round dully.
On whom?
HAGEN
On Siegfried, traitor to thee.
BRÜNNHILDE
On Siegfried? Thou?
[Smiling bitterly.
One single flash Of his eye and its lightning— Which streamed in its glory on me Even through his disguise— And thy heart would fail, Shorn of its courage.
HAGEN
But to my spear His perjury gives him.
BRÜNNHILDE
Truth and falsehood— What matter words! To arm thy spear Seek for something stronger, Strength such as his to withstand!
HAGEN
Well know I Siegfried's Conquering strength: How hard in battle to slay him; But whisper to me Some sure device For speeding him to his doom.
BRÜNNHILDE
Ungrateful, shameful return! I taught him all The arts I know, To preserve his body from harm.
"O wife betrayed, I will avenge Thy trust deceived" See p. 154.
He bears unwitting A charmèd life And safely walks by spells enwound.
HAGEN
Then no weapon forged could wound him?
BRÜNNHILDE
In battle none;—yet— Did the blow strike his back! Never—I knew that— Would he give way, Or turn and fly, the foe pursuing, So there I gave him no blessing.
HAGEN
And there shall my spear strike!
[He turns quickly from Brünnhilde to Gunther.
Up, Gunther, Noble Gibichung! Here stands thy valiant wife. Why hang thy head in grief?
GUNTHER
[Starting up passionately.
O shame! Dishonour! Woe is me! No man has known such sorrow!
HAGEN
In shame thou liest— That is true.
BRÜNNHILDE [To Gunther.
O craven man! Falsest of friends! Hidden behind The hero wert thou While won were for thee The prize and the glory. Low indeed The race must have sunk That breeds such cowards as thou!
GUNTHER [Beside himself.
Deceived am I—and deceiver! Betrayed am I—and betrayer! My strength be consumed, And broken my heart! Help, Hagen! Help for my honour! Help, for my mother was thine— Thee too she bore!
HAGEN
No help from head Or hand will suffice: 'Tis Siegfried's death we need.
GUNTHER [Seized with horror.
Siegfried's death?
HAGEN
Unpurged else were thy shame.
GUNTHER [Staring before him.
Blood-brotherhood He and I swore.
HAGEN
Who broke the bond Pays with his blood.
GUNTHER
Broke he the bond?
HAGEN
In betraying thee.
GUNTHER
Was I betrayed?
BRÜNNHILDE
He betrayed thee, And me ye all are betraying! If I were just, All the blood of the world Would not atone for your guilt! But the death of one Is all I ask for. Dying, Siegfried Atones for himself and you!
HAGEN
[Turning to Gunther and speaking to him secretly.
His death would profit thee; Boundless were indeed thy might If thou couldst capture the ring, Which, alive, he never will yield.
GUNTHER [Softly.
Brünnhilde's ring?
HAGEN
The ring the Niblung wrought.
GUNTHER [Sighing deeply.
'Twould be the end of Siegfried.
HAGEN
His death would serve us all.
GUNTHER
But Gutrun', to whom He has been given! How could we look in her face If her husband we had slain?
BRÜNNHILDE [Starting up furiously.
What wisdom forewarned of, And runes hinted darkly, In helpless despair Is plain to me now.
[Passionately.
Gutrune is the spell That stole my husband's heart away! Woe be her lot!
HAGEN [To Gunther.
If this grief we must give her, Conceal how Siegfried died. We go to-morrow Merrily hunting; The hero gallops ahead; We find him slain by a boar.
BRÜNNHILDE and HAGEN
So shall it be! Perish Siegfried! Purged be the shame He brought on me! Faith sworn by oath He has broken; Now with his blood Let him atone! Avenging, All-hearing God! Oath-witness, And lord of vows! Wotan, come at my call! Send thou thine awful Heavenly host Hither to hear While I vow revenge!
HAGEN
Doomed let him die, The hero renowned! Mine is the hoard, And mine I shall hold it! From him the ring Shall be wrested! Niblung father! O fallen prince! Night warder! Nibelung lord! Alberich! Hear thou thy son! Ruling again O'er the Nibelung host, Bid them obey thee, The ring's dread lord!
[As Gunther turns impetuously towards the hall with Brünnhilde they are met by the bridal procession coming out. Boys and girls, waving flower-wreathed staves, leap merrily in front. The vassals are carrying Siegfried on a shield and Gutrune on a seat. On the rising ground at the back men-servants and maids are taking implements and beasts for sacrifice, by the various mountain-paths, to the altars, which they deck with flowers. Siegfried and the vassals blow wedding-calls on their horns. The women invite Brünnhilde to accompany them to Gutrune's side. Brünnhilde stares blankly at Gutrune, who beckons her with a friendly smile. As Brünnhilde is about to step back angrily Hagen comes quickly between them and presses her towards Gunther, who takes her hand again, whereupon he allows himself to be raised on a shield by the men. As the procession, scarcely interrupted, moves on quickly again towards the height, the curtain falls.
THE THIRD ACT
A wild wooded and rocky valley on the Rhine, which flows past a steep cliff in the background. The three Rhine-Maidens, Woglinde, Wellgunde, and Flosshilde, rise to the surface and swim and circle as if dancing.
THE THREE RHINE-MAIDENS
[Swimming slower.
The sun Sends hither rays of glory; In the depths is darkness. Once there was light, When clear and fair Our father's gold shone on the billows. Rhinegold! Gleaming gold! How bright was once thy radiance, Lovely star of the waters!
[They sing and again start swimming and circling about. They pause and listen, then merrily splash the waters.
O sun, The hero quickly send us Who again our gold shall give us! If it were ours, We should no longer Envy thine eye for its splendour. Rhinegold! Gleaming gold! How glad was thy radiance, Glorious star of the waters!
[A horn is heard.
WOGLINDE
Hark! That is his horn!
WELLGUNDE
The hero comes.
FLOSSHILDE
Let us take counsel.
[They all dive down quickly.
SIEGFRIED
[Appears on the cliff fully armed.
Some elf has led me astray And lured my feet from the path. Hey, rogue! Behind what hill Hast suddenly hidden my game?
THE THREE RHINE-MAIDENS
[Rise to the surface again and swim and circle as in a dance.
Siegfried!
FLOSSHILDE
What art thou scolding about?
WELLGUNDE
With what elf art thou so wroth?
WOGLINDE
Hast thou been tricked by some sprite?
ALL THREE
Tell us, Siegfried; let us hear!
SIEGFRIED
[Regarding them with a smile.
Have ye, then, hither charmed The shaggy-hided fellow Whom I have lost? Frolicsome maids, Ye are welcome to him, If he is your love.
[The maidens laugh.
WOGLINDE
What would our guerdon be, Siegfried, if we restored him?
SIEGFRIED
I have caught nothing yet, So ask of me what you will.
WELLGUNDE
A golden ring Gleams on thy finger.
THE THREE RHINE-MAIDENS
Wilt grant it?
SIEGFRIED
From a dragon grim I won the ring in fight; And think ye for a worthless bear-skin I would exchange the gold?
WOGLINDE
Art thou so mean?
WELLGUNDE
In bargains so hard?
FLOSSHILDE
Free-handed Thou with women shouldst be.
SIEGFRIED
On you did I waste my goods, My wife would have cause to scold.
FLOSSHILDE
Is she a shrew?
WELLGUNDE
And beats thee sore?
WOGLINDE
Has the hero felt her hand?
[They laugh immoderately.
SIEGFRIED
Though gaily ye may laugh, In grief ye shall be left, For, mocking maids, this ring Ye ask shall never be yours.
[The Rhine-Maidens have again joined hands for dancing.
FLOSSHILDE
So fair!
WELLGUNDE
So strong!
WOGLINDE
So worthy love!
THE THREE
How sad he should a miser be!
[They laugh and dive down.
SIEGFRIED
[Comes down nearer to the river.
Why should I stand Their taunts and blame? Why endure their scorn? Did they return To the bank again, The ring gladly I'd give them.
"Though gaily ye may laugh, In grief ye shall be left, For, mocking maids, this ring Ye ask shall never be yours" See p. 162
[Calling loudly.
Hey, hey! ye merry Water-maidens, Come back; the ring shall be yours.
[He holds up the ring, which he has taken from his finger.
THE THREE RHINE-MAIDENS
[Rise to the surface again. They appear grave and solemn.
Nay, hero, keep And ward it well, Until the harm thou hast felt That in the ring lies hid. Then wouldst thou fain Be freed by us from its curse.
SIEGFRIED
[Calmly puts the ring on his finger again.
Sing something that ye know!
THE THREE RHINE-MAIDENS
Siegfried! Siegfried! Siegfried! Dark our knowledge for thee! The ring thou keepest To thy own scathe! From the gleaming gold Of the Rhine 'twas wrought; He who cunningly forged it, And lost it in shame, Laid a curse on it Which, for all time, The owner thereof Dooms to his death. As the dragon fell So shalt thou too fall, And that to-day; Thy fate is foretold, Wilt thou not give to the Rhine The ring to hide in its waters. Its waves alone Can loose the curse.
SIEGFRIED
Enough, O ye women Full of wiles! Was I firm when ye flattered, I am firmer now when ye threaten!
THE THREE RHINE-MAIDENS
Siegfried! Siegfried! Our warning is true: Flee, oh, flee from the curse! The Norns who weave By night have entwined it In the rope Of Fate's decrees!
SIEGFRIED
My sword once shattered a spear; And if the Norns Have woven a curse Into the strands Of destiny's rope, Nothung will cleave it asunder. A dragon once warned me Of this dread curse, But he could not teach me to fear.
[He contemplates the ring.
The world's wealth Has bestowed on me a ring. For the grace of love Had it been yours, And still for love might it be got, But by threats to my life and my limbs— Had it not even A finger's worth— The ring ye never shall gain. My limbs and my life—
"Siegfried! Siegfried! Our warning is true: Flee, oh, flee from the curse!" See p. 164
Look!—thus Freely I fling away!
[He lifts a clod of earth from the ground, holds it over his head, and with the last words throws it behind him.
THE THREE RHINE-MAIDENS
Come, sisters! Fly from the madman! Though dauntless and wise He seems to himself, He is blind and in fetters bound fast.
[Wildly excited, they swim in wide circles close to the shore.
Oaths he swore, And was false to his word;
[Moving quickly again.
Runes he knows That he cannot rede. A glorious gift Fell to his lot; He flung it from him Unawares; And the ring that deals doom and death Alone he will not surrender! Farewell, Siegfried! A woman proud Ere night falls thy wealth shall inherit. Our cry by her will be heard. To her! To her! To her!
[They turn quickly to their dance, and gradually swim away to the back singing.
SIEGFRIED
[Looks after them smiling, one foot on a piece of rock and his chin resting on his hand.
Alike on land and water I have studied women's ways: Still those who mistrust their smiles They seek with threats to frighten, And, are their threats despised, At once they begin to scold. And yet— Held I not Gutrun' dear, Of these alluring maidens One had surely been mine.
[He looks calmly after the Rhine-Maidens, who have disappeared, and whose voices gradually die away. Horn-calls are then heard. Siegfried starts from a reverie and sounds his horn in answer.
HAGEN'S VOICE [Far off.
Hoiho!
VASSALS' VOICES
Hoiho! Hoiho! Hoiho!
SIEGFRIED
[Having first answered the call with his horn.
Hoiho! Hoihe!
HAGEN
[Appears on the height, followed by Gunther. He sees Siegfried.
So we have found thee Where thou wert hidden!
SIEGFRIED
Come down all! Here 'tis fresh and cool.
[The vassals now appear on the height, and come down with Hagen and Gunther.
HAGEN
Here let us rest And see to the meal.
[They lay the game in a heap.
Lay down the booty And hand round the wine-skins.
[Wine-skins and drinking-horns are produced. All lie down.
HAGEN
Now be the wonders told us Of Siegfried and his hunting That chased the game from us.
SIEGFRIED
No meal at all is mine; I beg of you To share with me your spoil.
HAGEN
No luck at all?
SIEGFRIED
I sought for forest-game, But water-fowl only I found; Furnished with the right equipment, A brood of three wild water-birds I had caught and brought you. Down there on the Rhine they told me That slain to-day I should fall.
[Gunther starts and looks darkly at Hagen. Siegfried lies down between Gunther and Hagen.
HAGEN
A sorry chase were that If the luckless hunter fell A victim to the quarry!
SIEGFRIED
Thirst plagues me!
HAGEN
[Whilst he orders a drinking-horn to be filled for Siegfried, and hands it to him.
It has been rumoured, Siegfried, That thou canst tell the meaning Of what the birds sing: Does rumour speak true?
SIEGFRIED
I have not listened For long to their song.
[He takes the drinking-horn and turns with it to Gunther, to whom he offers it after he has drunk from it.
Drink, Gunther, drink! Thy brother hands the draught!
GUNTHER
[ Looks into the horn with horror. Moodily.
A pale draught thou hast poured!
[More gloomily.
Thy blood alone is there.
SIEGFRIED [Laughing.
With thine, then, be it mingled!
[He pours from Gunther's horn into his own so that it runs over.
Thus mixed the wine flows over To Mother Earth May it prove a cordial kind!
GUNTHER [With a deep sigh.
Thou over-joyous man!
SIEGFRIED [Low, to Hagen.
His cheer Brünnhild' has marred.
HAGEN [Low, to Siegfried.
She speaks less plain to him Than speak the birds to thee!
SIEGFRIED
Since I have heard women singing. The birds I have clean forgot.
HAGEN
But thou didst hear them once?
SIEGFRIED
[Turning with animation to Gunther.
Hei! Gunther! Moody-faced man! Come, I will tell thee Tales of my boyhood, If thou wouldst care to hear them.
GUNTHER
'Twould please me much.
[All lie down close to Siegfried, who alone sits upright.
HAGEN
Sing, hero, sing!
SIEGFRIED
Mime was A surly old dwarf Who because of greed Reared me with care, That when the child Grew sturdy and bold He might slay a dragon grim That guarded treasure in the wood. He taught me to forge And the art of fusing, But what the craftsman Could not achieve The scholar did By skill and by daring— Out of the splinters of a weapon Fashioned featly a sword. My father's blade Forged was afresh; Strong and true Nothung was tempered, Deemed by the dwarf Fit for the fight. The wood then we sought, and there The dragon Fafner I slew.
Listen and heed Well to my tale; I have marvels to tell you. From the dragon's blood My fingers were burning, And these I raised to my lips; And barely touched Was the blood by my tongue, When what a bird was saying Above me I could hear. On a bough it sat there and sang: "Hei! Siegfried now owns All the Nibelung hoard! Oh! could he the hoard In the cave but find! Tarnhelm, if he could but win it, Would help him to deeds of renown; And could he discover the ring, It would make him the lord of the world!'
HAGEN
Didst thou take The Tarnhelm and ring?
A VASSAL
Was that the end of the singing?
SIEGFRIED
Having taken Tarnhelm and ring, Once more I listened And heard the sweet warbler; He sat above me and sang:— "Hei! Siegfried now owns Both the helm and the ring! Oh! let him not listen To Mime, the false, For Mime, too, covets the treasure, And cunningly watches and spies! He is bent on murdering Siegfried; Be Siegfried wary of Mime!"
HAGEN
'Twas well that he warned?
THE VASSALS
Got Mime due payment?
SIEGFRIED
A deadly-brewed draught He brought me to drink; But, fear-stricken, His tongue stammered truly: Nothung stretched him out dead!
HAGEN
[With a strident laugh.
The steel that he forged not Mime soon tasted!
[He has another drinking-horn filled, and drops the juice of a herb into it.
THE VASSALS
What further did the bird tell thee?
HAGEN
From my horn Drink, hero, first: A magical draught is this; It will mind thee of things long forgotten, And bring old days to remembrance.
[He offers the horn to Siegfried, who looks into it thoughtfully and then drinks slowly.
SIEGFRIED
In sorrow I listened, Grieving looked up; He sat there still and sang. "Hei! Siegfried has slain The deceitful dwarf! I know for him now A glorious bride. She sleeps where rugged rocks soar; Ringed is her chamber by fire. Who battles the flames Wakens the bride, Brünnhilde wins as reward!"
HAGEN
The wood-bird's counsel Didst thou follow?
SIEGFRIED
Straight without pause I rose and I ran
[Gunther listens with increasing astonishment.
Till I came to the fire-ringed rock. I passed through the flames, And for prize I found,
[More and more ecstatic.
Sleeping, and clad in bright mail, A woman lovely and dear. The hard helmet I loosened with care, And waked the maid with my kiss. Ah, then the burning, sweet embrace Of Brünnhild's rapturous arms!
GUNTHER
[Springing up in the greatest consternation.
What says he?
[Two ravens fly up out of a bush, circle above Siegfried, and then fly away towards the Rhine.
HAGEN
Didst understand What the ravens there said?
[Siegfried starts up suddenly, and, turning his back to Hagen, looks after the ravens. Hagen thrusts his spear into Siegfried's back.
HAGEN
Vengeance—that was the word!
[Gunther and the vassals rush towards Hagen. Siegfried swings his shield on high with both hands in order to throw it on Hagen; his strength fails him; the shield drops from his grasp backwards, and he falls down upon it.
GUNTHER and VASSALS
[Who have tried to hold Hagen back in vain.
Hagen, what dost thou?
HAGEN
Death to traitors!
[He turns calmly away, and is seen in the gathering twilight disappearing slowly over the height. Gunther bends over Siegfried in great grief. The vassals stand round the dying man full of sympathy.
SIEGFRIED
[Supported by two vassals in a sitting posture, opens radiant eyes.
Brünnhilde, Heaven-born bride, Awake! Open thine eyelids! Who again Has locked thee in sleep And bound thee in slumber so fast? Lo! he that came And kissed thee awake
Siegfried's death—See p. 172.
Again breaks the bonds Holding thee fettered And looks on Brünnhild's delight. Ah! those dear eyes Now open for ever! Ah! the soft fragrance Borne on her breathing! Death, thou art welcome— Sweet are thy terrors— Brünnhild' greets me, my bride!
[He sinks back and dies. The rest stand round him motionless and sorrowing. Night has fallen. At a silent command from Gunther the vassals raise Siegfried's body and bear it away slowly in a solemn procession over the height. The moon breaks through the clouds, and lights up the funeral procession with increasing clearness as it reaches the top of the hill. A mist has risen from the Rhine which gradually fills the whole stage, on which the funeral procession has become invisible. After a musical interlude the mist divides again, until at length the hall of the Gibichungs, as in Act I. appears with increasing distinctness.
It is night. The moonlight is mirrored in the Rhine. Gutrune comes out of her chamber into the hall.
Was that his horn?
[She listens.
No!—he Has not returned. Troubled was my sleep By evil dreams! Then wildly neighed his horse; Brünnhild' laughed, And I woke up afraid. What woman was it I saw go down to the shore? I fear this Brünnhild'! Is she within?
[She listens at the door at the right and calls.
Brünnhild'! Brünnhild'! Art awake?
[She opens the door timidly and looks into the inner room.
No one is there! So it was she I saw go downwards to the Rhine.
[A distant horn sounds.
Was that his horn? No! All silent!
[She looks out anxiously.
Would but Siegfried return!
[Hagen's voice is heard outside coming nearer. When Gutrune hears it she stands for a time transfixed with terror.
HAGEN
Hoiho! Hoiho! Awake! Awake! Lights! Ho! lights here! Burning torches! Home bring we Spoils of the chase. Hoiho! Hoiho!
[Increasing light from the torches is seen without. Hagen enters the hall.
Up! Gutrun'! Give Siegfried greeting, For home to thee Thy hero comes.
GUTRUNE [In great fear.
What is wrong, Hagen? I heard not his horn.
[Men and women with lights and firebrands accompany, in great confusion, the procession returning with Siegfried's body.
HAGEN
The hero pale Will blow it no more; No more will he ride To battle or chase Or gaily go wooing fair women.
GUTRUNE [With growing terror.
What bring they here?
[The procession reaches the middle of the hall, and the vassals set down the body on a hastily improvised platform.
HAGEN
'Tis a wild boar's spoil they bring thee: Siegfried, thy husband slain.
[Gutrune shrieks and falls upon the corpse. General emotion and mourning.
GUNTHER
[Bends over the fainting Gutrune.
Gutrun', gentle sister! Open thine eyelids! Look up and speak!
GUTRUNE
[Recovering consciousness.
Siegfried—they have slain Siegfried!
[She pushes Gunther back violently.
Hence! false-hearted brother, Thou slayer of my husband! Oh, who will help me! Woe's me! Woe's me! These men have murdered my Siegfried!
GUNTHER
Cast not the blame on me; 'Tis Hagen who must bear it: He is the accursèd wild boar That did the hero to death.
HAGEN
With me art wroth for that?
GUNTHER
Woe and grief For aye be thy portion!
HAGEN
[Stepping forward with terrible defiance.
Yes, then, 'tis true that I slew him. I—Hagen— Did him to death! By my spear he falsely swore, So by my spear he fell. I have the sacred right Now to demand my booty, And what I claim is this ring.
GUNTHER
Away! Thou shalt not have What forfeit falls to me.
HAGEN
Ye vassals, judge of my right!
GUNTHER
Thou wouldst seize Gutrune's dower, Insolent Niblung son?
HAGEN
[Draws his sword.
'Tis thus The Niblung son demands his own.
[He rushes on Gunther, who defends himself: they fight. The vassals throw themselves between. Gunther falls slain by a stroke from Hagen.
HAGEN
Mine the ring!
[He makes a grasp at Siegfried's hand, which raises itself in menace. All stand transfixed with horror.
BRÜNNHILDE
[Advances firmly and solemnly from the background to the front. Still at the back.
Silence! Your sorrow Clamour less loud! Now for vengeance his wife comes, The woman all have betrayed.
[As she comes quietly forward.
I have heard you whining As whine children When milk is spilt by their mother; But lamentation Meet for a hero unmatched I have not heard.
GUTRUNE
[Raising herself suddenly from the floor.
Brünnhilde, spite-envenomed! Thou art the cause of our woe! For, urged by thee, the men have slain him; Cursèd hour that brought thee here!
BRÜNNHILDE
Peace, hapless wretch! Thou never wert wife of his; His leman wert thou, Only that. But I am his lawful bride; To me was the binding oath sworn, Before thy face he beheld.
GUTRUNE
[Breaking out in sudden despair.
Accursèd Hagen, Why didst thou give the poison That stole her husband away? O sorrow! Mine eyes are opened: Brünnhild' was the true love Whom through the draught he forgot.
[She turns from Siegfried in shame and fear, and, dying, bends over Gunther's body; remaining motionless in this position until the end. Hagen stands defiantly leaning on his spear and shield, sunk in gloomy thought, on the opposite side. Brünnhilde stands alone in the middle. After long and absorbed contemplation of Siegfried she turns with solemn exaltation to the men and women.
BRÜNNHILDE
Let great logs Be borne to the shore And high by the Rhine be heaped; Fierce and far Let the flames mount That consume to ashes Him who was first among men! His horse lead to me here, That with me his lord he may follow. For my body longs To have part in his glory And share his honour in death. Obey Brünnhild's behest.
[The young men, during the following, raise a great pyre of logs before the hall, near the bank of the Rhine; women decorate this with rugs, on which they strew plants and flowers.
BRÜNNHILDE
[Absorbed anew in contemplation of Siegfried's dead face. Her expression brightens and softens as she proceeds.
Sheer golden sunshine Streams from his face; None was so pure As he who betrayed. To wife forsworn, To friend too faithful, From his own true love— His only belovèd— Barred he lay by his sword. Never did man Swear oaths more honest, No one was ever Truer to treaties; Never was love Purer than Siegfried's; Yet oaths the most sacred, Bonds the most binding, And true love were never So grossly betrayed!
Know ye why that was?
[Looking upward.
Ye Gods who guard All vows that are uttered, Look down on me In my terrible grief, Your guilt never-ending behold! Hear my voice accusing, Mighty God! Through his most valiant deed— Deed by thee so desired— Thou didst condemn him To the doom That else upon thee had fallen. He, truest of all, Must betray me, That wise a woman might grow! Know I all thou wouldst learn? All things! All things! All I know now: All stands plainly revealed. Round me I hear Thy ravens flapping. By them I send thee back The tidings awaited in fear. Rest in peace now, O God!
[She signs to the vassals to bear Siegfried's body on to the pyre; at the same time she draws the ring off Siegfried's singer, and regards it musingly.
I claim as mine What he has left me. O gold accurst! Terrible ring! I now grasp thee And give thee away. O sisters wise, Ye have my thanks For your counsel good, ye who dwell In the waters deep of the Rhine. What ye desire I gladly give; From out my ashes Take ye your treasure; The fire by which I am burnt Cleanses the ring of its curse. Down in the waves Wash it away, And guard ever pure The shining gold That stolen was to your grief!
[She has put the ring on her finger, and now turns to the pile of logs on which Siegfried's body lies stretched. Taking a great firebrand from one of the men, she waves it and points to the background.
Fly home, ye ravens, Tell your lord the tidings That ye have heard by the Rhine. But fly, as ye go, By Brünnhild's rock: Still Loge flames there; Bid him follow to Walhall; For the Gods are drawing Near to their doom.
Brünnhilde on Grane leaps on to the funeral pyre of Siegfried—See p. 182
Thus—thrown be the brand On Walhall's glittering halls!
[She hurls the brand on to the pile of wood, which quickly breaks into flame. Two ravens fly up from the rock by the shore and vanish in the background. Brünnhilde perceives her horse, which has just been led in by two men.
Grane, my horse, Be greeted fair!
[She springs towards him, and, catching hold of him, removes his bridle and bends towards him affectionately.
Knowest thou, my friend, To whom we are going? Thy lord lies radiant There in the fire, Siegfried, my hero blest! Thou neighest with joy To think thou shalt join him? Laughing, the flames Allure thee to follow? Feel thou my bosom, Feel how it burns; Flames of fire Have laid hold on my heart. Ah, to embrace him, By him be embraced, United for ever In love without end! Heiajoho! Grane! Give thy lord greeting!
[She has swung herself on to the horse, and urges it forward.
Siegfried! Siegfried! See! Brünnhild' greets thee, thy bride!
The Rhine-Maidens obtain possession of the ring and bear it off in triumph. See p. 182.
[She urges her horse with one leap into the burning pile of logs. The flames immediately blaze up, so that they fill the whole space in front of the hall and seem to catch hold of the building itself. The terrified men and women press as far to the front as possible. When the whole stage appears to be filled with fire the glow gradually fades, so that there is soon nothing left but a cloud of smoke, which drifts towards the back and hangs there as a dark bank of cloud. At the same time the Rhine overflows and the flood rolls up over the fire. The three Rhine-Maidens swim forward on the waves, and now appear over the spot where the fire was. Hagen, who since the incident of the ring has been watching Brünnhilde's behaviour with growing anxiety, is much alarmed by the fight of the Rhine-Maidens. He throws away his spear, shield, and helmet, and dashes into the flood as if mad, crying out, "Back from the ring!" Woglinde and Wellgunde fling their arms round his neck and, swimming away, draw him down with them into the depths. Flosshilde, swimming ahead of the others towards the back, joyously holds up the recovered ring. Through the bank of cloud on the horizon a red glow of increasing brightness breaks forth, and, illumined by this light, the Rhine-Maidens are seen merrily circling about and playing with the ring on the calmer waters of the Rhine, which has gradually retired to its natural bed. From the ruins of the fallen hall the men and women watch in great agitation the growing gleam of fire in the heavens. When this is at its brightest the hall of Walhall is seen, in which the Gods and heroes fit assembled, as described by Waltraute in the first Act. Bright flames seem to seize on the hall of the Gods. When the Gods are completely hidden by the flames the curtain falls.
