The term "Nibelung" refers to a group of characters from Germanic mythology, particularly associated with the epic poem "Nibelungenlied." This poem tells the story of the hero Siegfried, his tragic fate, and the conflicts among the royal families of Burgundy and Huns. The Nibelungs are often depicted as a race of dwarfs who possess a treasure, including a powerful ring that brings misfortune to its owner. In modern culture, the Nibelung legend has influenced various works, including Richard Wagner's famous opera cycle, Der Ring des Nibelungen. This cycle explores themes of power, love, and betrayal, drawing heavily from the original myths. The Nibelung story continues to be a significant part of European literary and cultural heritage.