Author

Snorri Sturluson

Died 1241

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Books by Snorri Sturluson

The Younger Edda; Also called Snorre's Edda, or The Prose Edda

"The Younger Edda; Also called Snorre's Edda, or The Prose Edda" by Snorri Sturluson is an Old Norse textbook written in Iceland during the early 13th century. This comprehensive guide to Norse mythology and poetic composition serves as the fullest source for understanding the myths of the North Germanic peoples. Through question-and-answer dialogues, lists of poetic devices, and discussions of traditional verse, it functioned as a textbook helping Icelandic poets master the complex art of skaldic poetry and interpret ancient mythological references.

Heimskringla; Or, The Chronicle of the Kings of Norway

"Heimskringla; Or, The Chronicle of the Kings of Norway" by Snorri Sturluson is a collection of sagas written around 1230. This epic work chronicles Swedish and Norwegian rulers from mythological origins through 1177, blending Norse legends with increasingly historical accounts. Beginning with the legendary Yngling dynasty traced to the god Freyr, it progresses through centuries of kings, featuring conquests across Europe and the Middle East. The extensive saga of Saint Olaf II forms its centerpiece, while Harald Hardrada's dramatic exploits culminate at the Battle of Stamford Bridge in 1066.

The sagas of Olaf Tryggvason and of Harald the Tyrant (Harald Haardraade)

"The Sagas of Olaf Tryggvason and of Harald the Tyrant (Harald Haardraade)" by Snorri Sturluson is a historical account likely composed in the early 14th century. This saga explores the life and adventures of Olaf Tryggvason, the son of King Tryggvi Olafson, along with the tumultuous era of his contemporary, Harald Haardraade. The narrative delves into themes of power, loyalty, and the harsh realities of Viking life, focusing on the journeys of key characters such as Olaf, his mother Astrid, and the political machinations surrounding the Norwegian throne. The opening of the saga introduces a dramatic backdrop, detailing Astrid's flight with her newborn son, Olaf, following her husband's downfall at the hands of his enemies. As she navigates life in hiding, swathes of tension build between the factions chasing them, especially as King Tryggvi's foes, Harald and Gudrod, search for Astrid and her son. The narrative threads through a landscape of allegiances, betrayal, and the raw survival instincts of its characters, setting the stage for Olaf's eventual rise. This opening serves as a prologue to a saga steeped in Viking lore, touching upon themes of fate and the quest for identity amidst the chaos of conquest and foreign lands.

Edda: taruopillinen alkuosa; Gylfin harhanäky (Gylfaginning)

"Edda: taruopillinen alkuosa; Gylfin harhanäky (Gylfaginning)" by Snorri Sturluson is the first main part of the 13th-century Prose Edda. A Swedish king named Gylfi journeys to Asgard seeking answers about the Æsir gods. Inside a great palace, he encounters three mysterious men on thrones who respond to his questions about Norse mythology, including the creation and eventual destruction of the world. But nothing in this realm may be what it seems.

Kuningastarinoita

"Kuningastarinoita" by Snorri Sturluson is a collection of sagas written around 1230. This epic chronicle traces the history of Swedish and Norwegian kings from mythological origins through 1177. Beginning with the legendary Yngling dynasty descended from Norse gods, the sagas progress through centuries of rulers, their conquests, and expeditions across Europe. The work blends mythology with increasingly historical accounts, culminating in dramatic tales of battles, crusades, and the establishment of the Norwegian kingdom.