3-7“The Lay of Helgi, Slayer of Hunding 1” Stanza 1–58

Helgi Comes to Sigrun's Rescue

How is Sigrun rescued?

On the night Helgi was born, the Norns came to decide his fate. They stretched out golden threads and decreed that he would become a great king. Helgi grew up and defeated King Hunding at 15 years old.

Sigrun dismounted from her horse and told Helgi about the marriage her father had arranged. She did not want the husband he had chosen. She asked Helgi either to challenge the man to battle or to carry her away. Helgi replied that, unless he died, there would be a battle first.

As Helgi and his men sailed on, great waves struck their ships. Helgi ordered the sails raised still higher. From above, Sigrun saved the men and their ships. Near the shore, Helgi's companions and their enemies traded insults. Helgi scolded his men, saying that fighting would serve them better than empty words.

Soon a great battle began. Helgi fought at the front. Women wearing helmets came down from the sky and protected him. After the victory, Sigrun praised Helgi for defeating his enemies. He had won Sigrun as his bride.

Illustration of Helgi Comes to Sigrun's Rescue