The term "Nibelungs" refers to a legendary group of characters from Germanic mythology, particularly associated with the epic poem known as the Nibelungenlied. This poem narrates the story of Siegfried, a hero who acquires a treasure guarded by the Nibelungs, a race of dwarfs. The tale explores themes of love, betrayal, and revenge. In the Nibelungenlied, the Nibelungs are depicted as a powerful and cursed lineage, ultimately leading to tragic events. The story has inspired various adaptations in literature, music, and art, including Richard Wagner's famous opera cycle, Der Ring des Nibelungen.