The Sagas of Icelanders: An Introduction to All Forty Sagas with Summaries

This book offers an accessible and concise introduction to the sagas of Icelanders, perfect for both general and academic readers. Authored by a recognized expert, it immerses readers in the sagas’ world, exploring their cultural and historical context. The book surveys major themes such as belief systems, family dynamics, legal matters, honor, and gender roles, elucidating Icelandic society’s fundamental worldview. Covering diverse tales from the Middle Ages, the sagas depict the struggles of ordinary farmers, fierce heroes, and shrewd women, including epic expeditions to Greenland and Vinland. The book also examines the influence of foreign literature, manuscript evidence, and dating, categorizing the sagas into three periods. Additionally, it explores their unique literary style, including paranormal elements and skaldic poetry. The final section provides concise summaries and information about the dating, manuscripts, and transmission of the forty preserved sagas, offering a comprehensive understanding of these captivating narratives.

Annette Lassen, associate professor at the Arnamagnæan Collection, NorS, University of Copenhagen, from 2020-22 research professor at The Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies, has published books and articles on Old Icelandic literature, e.g. Odin’s Ways: A Guide to the Pagan God in Medieval Literature (Routledge 2022), the edition Hrafnagaldur Óðins / Forspjallsljóð (Viking Society for Northern Research 2011), complete translations in Danish of the Sagas of Icelanders and the legendary sagas (2014 and 2016-2019).