The tales of Sigurd, a prominent figure in Norse mythology and Germanic folklore, have captivated audiences for centuries. Known for his heroic feats, including slaying the dragon Fafnir and acquiring the legendary Nibelungen hoard, Sigurd's story has evolved over time, particularly in the Scandinavian tradition. In contrast to continental versions, Scandinavian tales exhibit a distinct connection to Germanic mythology, reflecting the unique development of the narrative in the region. 

The earliest non-pictorial account of Sigurd's life in Scandinavia can be found in the Prose Edda of Snorri Sturluson, dating back to around 1220. Snorri's retelling closely resembles the narrative presented in the Völsunga saga, although it is considerably shorter. Interestingly, Snorri's version does not include Sigurd's quest for vengeance upon his father's death. According to the text, Sigurd is raised by king Hjálprek, receives the sword Gram from the smith Regin, and defeats the dragon Fafnir by stabbing it from underneath a pit.

After tasting the dragon's blood, Sigurd gains the ability to understand the language of birds. He eventually marries Gudrun, the daughter of king Gjuki, and helps her brother, Gunnar, win Brynhild's hand in marriage. Sigurd's tragic demise occurs when Brynhild discovers his deception and orchestrates his murder, leading to a series of devastating events that culminate in their deaths.

The Poetic Edda, a compilation of mythological and heroic poems, also features Sigurd prominently. However, the details of his life and death presented in these poems often contradict one another, rendering the story ambiguous and elusive. Dating back to around the thirteenth century, the poems within the Poetic Edda were likely composed at different times, making it challenging to establish a coherent narrative. Some poems may have been written in an archaic style, mimicking older material, further complicating the dating process.

The Völsunga saga, another significant source of Sigurd's mythology, provides the most detailed account of his life. This saga closely follows the narrative presented in the Poetic Edda, with a geographical shift from Germany to Scandinavia. Sigurd, born as the posthumous son of King Sigmund and Hjordis, meets a tragic end after a series of treacherous events. The saga also intertwines with Ragnars saga Loðbrókar, where Ragnar Lodbrok, a legendary Viking hero, marries Sigurd's daughter, Aslaug.

Sigurd's mythology extends beyond texts and poems, finding expression in various ballads throughout Scandinavia. Danish and Swedish ballads, influenced by both Scandinavian and German sources, feature Sigurd as the protagonist. These ballads diverge significantly from the original traditions, often employing Sigurd's name while presenting entirely different narratives. Similarly, Faroese ballads, known as Sjúrðar kvæði, incorporate material from the Thidrekssaga and the Völsunga saga, offering their unique perspectives on Sigurd's adventures.

Pictorial depictions of Sigurd's youthful exploits can be found in churches and crosses across Scandinavia and the British Isles. These depictions often reflect Christian influences and draw parallels between Sigurd's triumph over the dragon and Christ's victory over Satan. Runestones in Sweden portray Sigurd's battles with Fafnir, while fragmentary crosses from the Isle of Man and other regions showcase scenes of Sigurd stabbing the dragon and receiving advice from birds. English monuments, including the Heysham hogback and the Halton cross, offer further glimpses into the iconography of Sigurd's mythology.

In Norway, numerous churches and stave churches boast intricate carvings depicting Sigurd's adventures. Notable examples include the Hylestad Stave Church and the Vegusdal Stave Church, which showcase scenes such as Sigurd's fight against Fafnir, his burnt thumb after cooking the dragon's heart, and his confrontation with Regin. These stone carvings provide a visual representation of Sigurd's mythological exploits and highlight his status as a revered hero in Norse culture.

As the mythology of Sigurd evolved and adapted throughout history, it became entwined with various cultural and literary traditions. The Scandinavian retellings of Sigurd's story, deeply connected to Germanic mythology, offer a unique perspective on the hero's adventures. From the Prose Edda to the Poetic Edda, Völsunga saga, ballads, and pictorial depictions, Sigurd's mythology weaves a complex tapestry that reflects the rich and ever-evolving nature of Scandinavian folklore.