- ISBN13: 9780140447552
- Condition: NEW
- Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.
The stirring, bloody, and tragic saga that inspired such artists as Wagner, Borges, and Tolkien
Written in Iceland a century after the close of the Viking Age, The Prose Edda is the source of most of what we know of Norse mythology. Its tales are peopled by giants, dwarves, and elves, superhuman heroes and indomitable warrior queens. Its gods live with the tragic knowledge of their own impending destruction in the cataclysmic battle of Ragn… More >>
The Prose Edda: Norse Mythology
This edition is excellant, well-formatted, and enjoyable. My only reservation is that the Notes are not extensive enough, since they offer
no critical commentary, and the etymology of some important character
names, is not explored. Because All Mythology is 95% Propaganda, and
5% Truth, it is necessary to probe beneath the text, to the subtext.
For example, the Edda is told from the biased Point of View of the Aesir
royalty: High, Just as High, and Third. Though the Edda admits that much
of their claims are “conjured illusions”, the reader forgets that the story was “prepared” for King Gylfi. Thus, Odin, who is the Evil Mastermind of Aesir Propaganda, is called All-Father, Lord, and Wise One;
whereas his True Color is gray Grimr, the “Masked One”. Likewise, the Vanir, the Giants, the Sons of Muspell, and the Ash Tree People are all
misrepresented. And Gullveig, the True Goddess, is not even mentioned by
name, only referenced as the “Eagle” of Yggdrasil. Note that the Aesir
call the Tree of Life, the “Terrible One’s Horse”; so be forewarned.
Rating: 4 / 5
This edition includes a good translation and a lot of useful context information. The family tress are especially helpful.
Rating: 3 / 5
This is a standard read for anyone interested in the Nordic Path. This translation is easier to understand than some. I highly recc it!
Rating: 4 / 5
One of the most important texts available for the study of Icelandic culture and mythology.
Rating: 5 / 5
This book was incredible. Snorri manages to construe every story with such eloquence and subtle humor is amazing.
Rating: 5 / 5