You're Dead to Me Old Norse Literature
7 snips
Mar 12, 2021 Join cultural historian Dr. Janina Ramirez and comedian Kae Kurd as they embark on a wild journey through Old Norse literature. They discuss legends filled with gods, trolls, and mistletoe, revealing how such outrageous tales shape our understanding of Viking culture. The duo dives into the antics of Loki, including his bizarre transformations and family ties, and explores the tragic story of Baldur. With humor and insight, they also explore the relevance of these ancient myths in today's world, including a playful quiz and engaging banter.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Icelandic Literature
- Old Norse literature is primarily Icelandic, dating back to the 1200s.
- Iceland's unique history and young age, inhabited for only 1100 years, contribute to its distinct literary style.
Eddas and Sagas
- Eddas are collections of Norse myths, while Sagas are prose narratives often focused on family dramas.
- The Prose Edda explains the myths, while the Poetic Edda and Sagas are more like rhythmic storytelling, similar to rap music.
Laxdæla Saga
- The Laxdæla Saga tells the story of early Icelandic settlers, including Unnr the Deep-Minded.
- It features a love triangle, divorces, witchcraft, and a dramatic clash between two best friends.