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Edda


Synopsis


The only English translation to include the complete work - a must-have for all students of early Norse literature.

Over a period of twenty years, Snorri Sturluson, scholar, courtier and poet, compiled the prose EDDA as a textbook for young poets who wished to praise kings. His work surveys the content, style and metres of traditional Viking poetry and includes a poem of Snorri's own, praising the king of Norway. Ironically, Snorri was killed in his own cellar in 1241 on the instigation of the king of Norway as a result of political intrigue.

The EDDA contains the most extensive account of Norse myths and legends that has survived from the Middle Ages. This is the only edition available with introduction, text summaries, indexes and chronology of early Icelandic literature.

Snorri Sturluson, Anthony Faulkes

Summary

Chapter 1: The Hedge

Edda, a young woman from a small village, embarks on a perilous journey to the city. Along the way, she encounters a talking hedgehog who warns her of the dangers ahead. The hedgehog urges her to be wary of the "forest elves" and their enchanting music. Edda ignores the warning and is soon drawn into the elves' realm.

Chapter 2: The Forest Elves

Edda finds herself captivated by the elves' enchanting music and dances. She forgets her worries and revels in the moment. However, as the night wears on, she realizes that the elves' true intentions are not what they seem. The elves attempt to trap Edda in their realm, but she is rescued by the hedgehog.

Chapter 3: The City

Edda finally reaches the city, where she finds work as a maid. She meets a charming stranger named Halvor, who offers her a chance to escape her humble life. Edda is torn between her desire for adventure and her fear of the unknown.

Chapter 4: The Spider's Web

Edda accepts Halvor's offer and travels with him to the wilderness. They encounter a spider's web, a symbol of the tangled and dangerous path ahead. Edda becomes entangled in the web, but with the help of a wise old owl, she finds a way out.

Chapter 5: The Mountain King

Edda and Halvor continue their journey and climb a treacherous mountain. They encounter the Mountain King, a powerful and enigmatic figure who challenges them to a riddle contest. Edda uses her wit and knowledge to answer the riddles and overcome the King's challenges.

Chapter 6: The Crystal Palace

Edda and Halvor reach the Crystal Palace, a magnificent dwelling where they are welcomed by the King and Queen. Edda is overjoyed to find that her long-lost brother, Olaf, is also living there. However, their reunion is cut short when the evil sorcerer, Grimnir, attacks the palace.

Chapter 7: The Battle

Edda and her allies engage in a fierce battle against Grimnir and his army of trolls. Edda uses her newfound abilities and the help of her companions to overcome the sorcerer's dark magic. In the end, Grimnir is defeated and Edda and her loved ones triumph.

Chapter 8: The Return

After the battle, Edda and her brother return to their village. They are greeted as heroes and celebrated for their bravery and sacrifice. Edda reflects on her journey and the lessons she has learned about courage, determination, and the power of friendship.