Subject
Folklore -- Norway Books
Best books
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.
Frederick Metcalfe
The Oxonian in Thelemarken, volume 2 (of 2) or, Notes of travel in south-western Norway in the summers of 1856 and 1857. With glances at the legendary lore of that district.
"The Oxonian in Thelemarken, volume 2 (of 2)" by Frederick Metcalfe is a travel account written in the mid-19th century. This volume continues the author's observations and experiences traveling through South-Western Norway during the summers of 1856 and 1857, blending personal anecdotes with cultural, historical, and ethnographical insights about the regions he explores. The narrative reflects on the differences between Scandinavian nations and local customs, providing a vivid depiction of the landscapes and people Metcalfe encounters. The opening of the volume introduces the author as he navigates through Denmark on his way to Copenhagen. He reflects on the distinct characteristics of Danish and Norwegian cultures, including language pronunciation and social customs while sharing his personal encounters, such as a peculiar stay at a hotel and interactions with locals. Furthermore, Metcalfe draws comparisons between the landscapes of Denmark and Norway, highlighting the more structured, sociable life in Denmark against the rugged nature of Norway, often tying these observations back to the historical context of the regions. The blend of humor and keen observation sets the stage for further explorations into Norwegian life and landscape, promising readers an insightful journey through both time and place.
Frederick Metcalfe
The Oxonian in Thelemarken, volume 1 (of 2) or, Notes of travel in south-western Norway in the summers of 1856 and 1857. With glances at the legendary lore of that district.
"The Oxonian in Thelemarken, Volume 1" by Frederick Metcalfe is a travelogue detailing the author's explorations in southwestern Norway during the summers of 1856 and 1857. Written in the mid-19th century, this work intertwines a personal narrative of adventure with cultural observations, depicting the rustic charm of Norway and its people. The author, who is often introspective and humorous, is keen to immerse himself in the primitive beauty and old-world customs of a land that he believes offers a reprieve from the monotony of civilized society. The opening of the book introduces readers to the author's reflections on his love for Norway's diverse landscapes, alongside the exhilarating activities such as salmon fishing. He shares vivid descriptions of the Norwegian coast and its natural features while contrasting them with the social complexities of modern life. As he prepares for another expedition into Thelemarken, Metcalfe paints a picture of his companions, including a rowdy group of travelers, and offers insights into the uniquely Norwegian characters he encounters, thus setting the stage for an engaging exploration of both the land and its legends.
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Popular Tales from the Norse
"Popular Tales from the Norse" by Asbjørnsen, Moe, and Dasent is a collection of Norwegian folktales first published in English in 1859. Drawing from Norway's rich oral traditions, these stories were originally gathered by teacher Peter Christen Asbjørnsen and minister Jørgen Moe, who traveled the countryside collecting tales directly from storytellers. Inspired by the Brothers Grimm's methodology, they carefully retold these narratives while preserving their authentic Norwegian character. Translator George Webbe Dasent brought these enchanting tales to English readers, earning praise from the original collectors themselves.
Gudrun Thorne-Thomsen
East o' the Sun and West o' the Moon : $b with other Norwegian folk tales
"East O' the Sun and West O' the Moon" by Gudrun Thorne-Thomsen is a collection of Norwegian folk tales, retold and illustrated, likely written in the early 20th century. The book presents various enchanting stories from Norwegian folklore, exploring themes of love, adventure, and the struggle against magical adversities. One of the most prominent tales follows a poor woodcutter's youngest daughter who embarks on a journey to rescue a prince from a wicked curse while encountering fantastical creatures and breathtaking landscapes along the way. At the start of the story, we meet a humble woodcutter who struggles to provide for his many children, particularly his youngest daughter, who is exceptionally beautiful. On a stormy evening, a talking White Bear appears at their window, offering riches in exchange for the daughter's hand. Initially refusing, the daughter secretly decides to uphold the Bear's offer and bravely rides away with him into a magnificent enchanted castle where she wishes to know more about the mysterious figure who shares her living space each night. However, her curiosity leads to complications, and she learns that the Bear is actually a prince under a witch's curse, setting the stage for her perilous quest to save him from his plight. This tale serves as an introduction to a richly woven tapestry of stories filled with magic and moral lessons.
Peter Christen Asbjørnsen
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.
Unknown
Satukirja lapsille : $b Norjalaisia kansansatuja
"Satukirja lapsille: Norjalaisia kansansatuja" by Peter Christen Asbjørnsen and Jørgen Moe is a collection of Norwegian folktales first published in 1841. Inspired by the Brothers Grimm, a teacher and minister gathered stories from Norway's oral tradition during a wave of 19th-century nationalism. They carefully retold these tales in a simple style that balanced preserving folk authenticity with creating readable narratives. The collection grew from a slim pamphlet to encompass over one hundred stories, becoming a cornerstone of Norwegian cultural identity.
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