Author

Peter Christen Asbjørnsen

1812-1885

Peter Christen Asbjørnsen (1812-1885) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.

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Subjects

Books by Peter Christen Asbjørnsen

East of the Sun and West of the Moon: Old Tales from the North

"East of the Sun and West of the Moon: Old Tales from the North" by Asbjørnsen et al. is a collection of traditional folk tales likely compiled in the late 19th century. The stories derive from Norwegian folklore and encapsulate themes of adventure, magic, and transformation, featuring various characters such as brave heroines and mystical creatures. The beginning of this enchanting compilation introduces readers to the story of a poor husbandman who is eventually approached by a mysterious White Bear that offers to make him rich if he will give up his youngest daughter. Initially resistant, the daughter ultimately agrees, leading her to a life of luxury in the company of the bear, who is revealed to be under a curse. Over time, themes of sacrifice, love, and the quest for freedom emerge as she seeks to uncover the truth behind the bear's enchantment, setting the stage for an adventurous and magical narrative filled with trials and triumphs.

Tales from the Fjeld: A Second Series of Popular Tales

"Tales from the Fjeld: A Second Series of Popular Tales" by Peter Christen Asbjørnsen is a collection of folk tales rooted in Norwegian folklore, written in the late 19th century. This engaging anthology unveils stories steeped in myth, humor, and the human experience, featuring whimsical characters and fantastical plots that reflect the rich traditions of the Norse people. Each tale captures the essence of humanity and nature, with interesting protagonists like the greedy cat in “The Greedy Cat” and the peculiar Grumblegizzard, a child produced from a goose egg. The beginning of the book introduces the setting and mood, as the narrator and his companions embark on a journey into the rugged Norwegian wilderness in search of adventure and deer. The tone is light and humorous as Anders, their guide, entertains them with fantastical stories, including the tale of Osborn's Pipe, which centers on a capricious farmer's son who cleverly outsmarts those around him. This opening portion sets the stage, drawing readers into a world of quirky anecdotes and vibrant storytelling that weave together nature and folklore. The interaction among the characters and their reactions to Anders's storytelling hint at the whimsical, layered tales that follow, making readers eager for more.

Norwegische Volksmährchen vol. 2 gesammelt von P. Asbjörnsen und Jörgen Moe

"Norwegische Volksmährchen vol. 2" by Peter Christen Asbjørnsen and Jørgen Moe is a collection of Norwegian folktales published in 1844. Inspired by the Brothers Grimm, these two friends gathered stories from across Norway during a wave of national awakening. Their work helped shape Norwegian written language while preserving the essence of oral tradition. The tales balance accessibility with authenticity, creating "retold" versions that seek the original form of each story while using simple, engaging language that captured their nation's imagination.

'Round the yule-log: Christmas in Norway

"'Round the Yule-Log: Christmas in Norway" by Peter Christen Asbjørnsen is a collection of holiday-themed stories and folklore written during the late 19th century. The book captures the spirit of Christmas in Norway, blending traditional tales with the warmth of family gatherings, reflecting the customs and culture of the time. Through its narrative, the book brings to life various characters, including trolls, brownies, and a cast of charming children and old maids, all set against a backdrop of festive cheer and nostalgia. In this enchanting collection, the stories are woven together by a narrator who finds himself alone on Christmas Eve due to illness. He is invited to join two old maids and their lively nieces for the evening, where he recounts tales of folkloric creatures such as trolls and brownies. Throughout these narratives, themes of bravery, mischief, and the joys of Christmas festivities emerge. Stories such as the brave hunter Peter Gynt and his encounters with trolls, or the clever tales of brownies helping or hindering human lives, reflect the interplay of human emotions and folklore. The book culminates in a heartwarming reunion with family, embodying the spirit of togetherness typical of the holiday season.

Noorsche Volksvertellingen

"Noorsche Volksvertellingen" by Peter Christen Asbjørnsen is a collection of Norwegian folktales published beginning in 1841. Created with Jørgen Moe, this work captured Norway's oral traditions during a wave of nationalism following the country's newfound independence. Inspired by the Brothers Grimm, the collectors traveled the countryside gathering stories, then carefully retold them in a simple linguistic style that helped shape the Norwegian written language. The collection grew from a slim pamphlet to encompass over one hundred tales across multiple volumes.

Norwegische Volksmährchen vol. 1
 gesammelt von P. Asbjörnsen und Jörgen Moe

"Norwegische Volksmährchen vol. 1" by Peter Christen Asbjørnsen and Jørgen Moe is a collection of Norwegian folktales first published in 1841. Inspired by the Brothers Grimm, these two friends—a teacher and a minister—gathered tales during Norway's wave of nineteenth-century nationalism. They retold stories in simple language while preserving their original forms, creating "reconstructed" versions rather than raw transcriptions. Their work helped develop the Norwegian written language and became a cornerstone of national identity, earning praise from the Grimms themselves.