There is a Danish variant called "Jomfruen i ormeham" ("Maiden in the form of a snake" -- Danmarks gamle Folkeviser, 59; Types of the Scandinavian Ballad A28), and generally speaking, magical transformation ballads are much more common in
Scandinavian tradition than in British. The other indication of Nordic influence is the word "Kemp," which may derive from the Danish/Norwegian "kjempe," meaning champion or hero. "Kjempeviser" (hero ballads) make up the second largest category
of Scandinavian ballads, although British ballads like "Sir Lionel" or "Hugh Spencer's Feats in France" are more characteristic of kjempeviser than "Kemp Owen".
I don't know if this tells you anything about origins but hope it is of use.
Cheers
Jamie
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