One of the great storybooks of the middle ages: a master storyteller from the thirteenth century recounts classic tales of Icelandic mythology along with a lesson to young poets on the importance of learning, respecting, and continuing traditional Icelandic poetic styles.

"King Gylfe was a wise man and skilled in the black art. He wondered much that the asa-folk was so mighty in knowledge, that all things went after their will. He thought to himself whether this could come from their own nature, or whether the cause must be sought for among the gods whom they worshiped. He therefore undertook a journey to Asgard. He went secretly, having assumed the likeness of an old man, and striving thus to disguise himself. But the asas were wiser, for they see into the future, and, foreseeing his journey before he came, they received him with an eye-deceit. So when he came into the burg he saw there a hall so high that he could hardly look over it. Its roof was thatched with golden shields as with shingles..."

The Poetic Edda & The Prose Edda bring together a cornerstone collection of Old Norse literary compositions, attesting to the vibrant tapestry of myth, saga, and history that underpins Norse literary tradition. This anthology juxtaposes the mythological and heroic lays of the Poetic Edda with the Prose Edda's rich commentary and narrative expositions, providing readers with a comprehensive insight into Norse cosmology, ethics, and ethos. The text navigates through an array of literary styles, from the high poetic to the prosaically narrative, illustrating the diversity and adaptability of these ancient narratives. The collection, while deeply rooted in the mythic and historic, also engages with themes of fate, heroism, and the existential, resonating across centuries. The contributing authors, Snorri Sturluson and Saemund Sigfusson, are monumental figures in Icelandic literature, bridging paganism to Christianity, oral traditions to written scholarship. Their works collectively capture crucial phases in the transition of Nordic culture and thought, aligning with significant historical and cultural shifts. As compilers, commentators, and creators, their contributions not only preserve a cultural heritage but also provide a lens through which the power dynamics, spiritual beliefs, and social structures of their time are discerned. The anthology is an indispensable resource for readers seeking to explore the breadth of Norse literary output, offering a unique composite of mythological and historical narratives. The inclusion of both the Poetic and Prose Eddas in one volume offers a rare synthesis that invites readers into a dialogue between two of the most influential texts in Old Norse literature. It is an essential acquisition for those interested in the intersection of myth, history, and literature, beckoning scholars, enthusiasts, and casual readers alike to delve into its pages for a deeper understanding of Norse cultural legacy.

The Complete Edition of The Poetic Edda & The Prose Edda represents a monumental moment in literary history, encapsulating the breadth and depth of Old Norse mythology, heroic legends, and the broader context of medieval Scandinavian culture. This collection boasts an exceptional range of literary styles, from the enigmatic and lyrical verses of the Poetic Edda to the comprehensive and narrative-driven Prose Edda. This edited volume is not only pivotal for its preservation of ancient myths but also for its significant influence on later literary works, including those of J.R.R. Tolkien and other fantasy writers. The diversity within these pages highlights the complex tapestry of Norse mythology, showcasing stories of gods, giants, and heroes that have echoed through the ages. The contributions of Snorri Sturluson and Saemund Sigfusson to this anthology provide a rich fusion of intellectual tradition and storytelling artistry. Their backgrounds, intertwined with the historical and cultural currents of their time, offer readers an unrivaled view into the Norse world. These texts are foundational, not merely in the context of Scandinavian literature but across the broader expanse of Western literary and historical scholarship. The Eddas are essential for understanding the perspectives, beliefs, and lifestyles of the Norse people, seamlessly blending mythological narratives with historical moments. For scholars, students, and enthusiasts of mythology and medieval literature, this Complete Edition offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in the vibrant and varied world of Norse mythology. It serves not only as a conduit for historical education but as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. Through its exploration of timeless themessuch as fate, heroism, and the clash between the divine and the mortalthis collection invites readers to a journey through the sagas that have shaped human imagination for centuries. It is a treasure trove that promises to inspire, educate, and provoke thought, making it a must-read for anyone invested in the rich seam of world mythology and literature.

This text contains 'The Prose Edda' - the wellspring of modern knowledge of Norse Mythology. From the dawn of the world's creation to its ultimate destruction, these enthralling Norse stories chronicle the victories and tragedies of both gods and men. Rich with picturesque poetry and human drama, these stories constitute a vivid pictures of the characters' personalities, intertwined with the comic and injurious results of passion and ambition. This text will appeal to those with an interest in Norse mythology and ancient legends in general, and would make for a worthy addition to any bookshelf. The chapters of this book include: 'Snorri Sturluson', 'Introduction', 'Prologue', 'Here Begins the Beguiling of Gylfi', and 'The Poesy of Skalds'. We are republishing this antiquarian book now in an affordable, modern edition - complete with a new biography of the author.

The Prose Edda, also known as the Younger Edda, is an Old Norse textbook written in Iceland during the early 13th century. The work is often assumed to have been, to some extent written, by the Icelandic scholar and historian Snorri Sturluson. Today, it is considered the fullest and most detailed source for modern knowledge of Norse mythology.