Brünhild

This name derives from the Old Norse “Brynhildr,” composed of two Germanic elements: “*brunjǭ” (breastplate, neck protection of medieval armor equipment, chest part of the armor, coat of mail) plus “*hildiz” (battle, fight). The name means “protected by the shield.” Brynhildr sometimes spelled Brunhild, Brünnhilde, Brynhild, a shieldmaiden and a valkyrie in Norse mythology, where she appears to be the main character in the Völsunga saga and some Eddic poems treating the same events. Under the name Brünnhilde, she appears in the Nibelungenlied and, therefore, also in Richard Wagner’s “opera cycle Der Ring des Nibelungen.” The Visigothic princess Brunhilda of Austrasia may inspire her. The history of Brynhildr includes fratricide, a long battle between brothers, and dealings with the Huns.