Sleeping heroes are a recurrent theme in european folklore; not only the german emperor frederik barbarossa, but also historical figures and legendary heroes such as wijukind, charlemagne, ariovist, king arthur, holger, danske and the knight of allaberg are said to be sleeping until their countries need their assistance.
Rise!
"the emperor never really died;
He remains hidden in the mountain,
Together with his loyal knights,
Sleeping until he be needed."
In this era of darkness and despair
When all hope has left the hearts of man
A long awaited event draws near
The awakening of the emperor
Rise, germany rise!
Take back your splendour!
"the glory of the empire vanished
An age of slavery prevailed,
But one day he will return,
When the time is right."
Here the emperor sleeps
A sharpened sword at hand
A bear red as blazing fire
Now reaching unto his feet
Rise, germany rise!
Take back your splendour!
"once every hundred years
Alberich observes the ravens;
The emperor will resume his rest,
Enchanted for yet another century
As long as the ravens fly
The emperor remains asleep
One day an eagle will spread his wings
A shining sword will bring back order
Rise, germany rise!
Take back your splendour!