How does the Stress Energy tensor relate to Noether's theorem?

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Hi,

I was wondering if the stress-energy tensor arose naturally in special relativity in the same way that plain energy and momentum do via Lagrangians. I understand Noether's theorem for particles, but Wikipedia describes the stress-energy tensor as a Noether current; can anyone explain what this is?
Unfortunately, I don't know enough about differential forms to follow the standard definition. The other derivations based on dust etc. all seem a little contrived, deriving vanishing divergence almost as an aftherthought. I'm hoping that this line of inquiry will bring me more satisfaction.

Thanks a lot!
 
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That's exactly what I need!
Thanks again
 
Sorry to bother again...I now understand the derivation of the Noether current, but which field do I apply it to if I want the standard stress-energy tensor? Is this where "spacetime as a perfect fluid" comes into play?
 
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