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This major survey of Old Norse-Icelandic literature and culture demonstrates the remarkable continuity of Icelandic language and culture from medieval to modern times.
- Comprises 29 chapters written by leading scholars in the field
- Reflects current debates among Old Norse-Icelandic scholars
- Pays attention to previously neglected areas of study, such as the sagas of Icelandic bishops and the fantasy sagas
- Looks at the ways Old Norse-Icelandic literature is used by modern writers, artists and film directors, both within and outside Scandinavia
- Sets Old Norse-Icelandic language and literature in its wider cultural context
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Myth
An old woman, the seeress, addresses both humans and deities in a monologue that explains how the world was created, destroyed, and reborn. The world was initially raised from the sea and the sky created. Three giant maidens threaten the new world. Humans and dwarfs are created. The first war between the old deities takes place. The seeress tells Odin that the world will be destroyed. Several deities die and Loki is bound. In the final few lines, the new world resurfaces.
Belief system
Norse Paganism refers to the beliefs and traditions of people from Scandinavia: Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark.
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Cite this work
ChicagoMcTurk, Rory W., ed. A Companion to Old Norse-Icelandic Literature and Culture. Malden, MA: Blackwell Publishing, 2005.