THE PROSE EDDA (Translated & Annotated with 35 Stunning Illustrations): An Ancient Collection Of Tales Of The Gods Of Norse Mythology With Odin, Thor, Loki And Freya

By Snorri Sturluson and Helga Ivarson

THE PROSE EDDA, written by Snorri Sturluson in the 13th century, is a groundbreaking collection of poems and stories capturing Norse mythology. It provides an unparalleled insight into Viking religious beliefs, culture, values and customs. THE PROSE EDDA

• Language: English
• Publisher: Idea Shed Books
• Release date: Mar 3, 2024
• ISBN: 9798988783220

Snorri Sturluson

SNORRI STURLUSON was a poet, historian, poet, and politician in Iceland. This book is a critical source of the tales and beliefs that makeup Norse mythology.

Book preview

The Prose Edda

An ancient collection of tales of the Gods of Norse Mythology with Odin, Thor, Loki and Freya.

Snorri Sturluson, Helga Ivarson

Idea Shed Books

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THE PROSE EDDA

AN ANCIENT COLLECTION OF TALES OF THE GODS OF NORSE MYTHOLOGY INCLUDING ODIN, THOR, LOKI AND FREYA

by Snorri Sturluson

Annotated and Edited, with an Introduction by Helga Ivarson

Translated by I. A. Blackwell

The Prose Edda is in the public domain. All original additions, including illustrations and annotations, are copyright ©2024 by Helga Ivarson. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission from the copyright holder, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law or for the purposes of review in which brief passages may be quoted.

First edition 2024 in United States

Published by Idea Shed Books, 2248 Broadway, Suite 1062, New York, NY 10024

www.ideashedbooks.com

Dedication

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This book is humbly dedicated to you, a fellow lover of the timeless and inspiring stories of Norse mythology. It is my sincere hope that the tales you read in these pages bring you joy and insight. Your feedback is valuable to me! If you've enjoyed this book, I kindly ask that you take a few moments to leave a review on Amazon, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble or Kobo. Your insights can help other readers discover this story, and allow me to continue creating the content you love. I also invite you to join my mailing list at the website listed below. By doing so, you will be among the first to know about my upcoming book launches. Sign up today and let's keep exploring the captivating cosmos of Norse mythology together! May you enjoy The Prose Edda, and all the wonder it has to offer. Happy reading! Helga Ivarson, www.helgaivarson.com

Preface

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Unveiling the Mysteries of the Gods

There is an ancient realm, hidden within the folds of time, where gods clash, heroes rise, and destiny weaves its intricate tapestry. Welcome to the world of Norse mythology. It is with great pleasure and reverence that I present to you The Prose Edda, an invaluable gateway into the enchanting realm of Odin, Thor, Loki, Freya, and the myriad of captivating characters that inhabit these hallowed tales.

As an author with a deep love for the Norse myths, allow me to share the personal journey that has led me to this moment. From the earliest days of my childhood, I was captivated by the allure of Norse mythology. There were nights when I would stealthily remain awake past bedtime, with a secret flashlight illuminating the pages that revealed the secrets of Asgard and Midgard. These stories became the foundation of my imagination, fueling my dreams and instilling within me a sense of adventure that has never wavered.

Norse mythology possesses a majesty unlike any other. With each tale, it transports us to a realm where gods wield immense power, where mortal heroes chase glory, and where giants and monsters lurk beneath the surface of Midgard. The richness of its narratives resonates across generations, captivating hearts and minds with its primal forces and larger-than-life characters. Within these tales, we discover the essence of human experiences: love, betrayal, sacrifice, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness.

The Prose Edda, the crown jewel of Norse mythology, holds paramount significance within the annals of this ancient lore. Penned by the venerable statesman, Snorri Sturluson, this extraordinary collection of sagas and poems serves as a critical source, unraveling the tapestry of Norse myths and providing an invaluable glimpse into the mythological universe. It is within the pages of The Prose Edda that the gods come alive, their deeds and misdeeds etched upon the very fabric of our collective consciousness. Through its tales, we traverse a landscape of divine creation, epic battles, and profound wisdom, unlocking the secrets of our own existence.

In undertaking this book, I’ve endeavored to capture the essence and authenticity of these timeless stories. My aim is to invite you to embark on a journey of rediscovery, to walk along the shores of the Nine Realms, and to immerse you in a world both familiar and extraordinary.

I invite you to join me as we embark upon this odyssey through the realms of the gods. Together, may we unlock the ancient wisdom concealed within these pages and emerge forever changed.

On This Translation

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A.I. Blackwell's translation of the Prose Edda is the gold standard in the realm of literary translations. This rendition of the ancient text breathes new life into the sagas, illuminating their timeless wisdom and profound insights in a manner that is both accessible and engaging to the modern, English-speaking world.

The task of translating ancient text is no small feat. It involves not only an understanding of the source language but also a deep appreciation for the culture and context from which it emerged. Blackwell has done precisely this, masterfully capturing the essence of the Prose Edda while retaining the distinct stylistic elements that define it.

Blackwell’s translation has arguably played an instrumental role in making The Prose Edda one of the most available texts for the modern and English-speaking worlds. Readers, scholars, and enthusiasts are given a window into the rich tapestry of ancient Norse mythology, thanks to Blackwell’s translation. This translation is a timeless cultural bridge, demonstrating the enduring relevance of the Norse stories, underscoring the universal themes that continue to echo in today's society.

Introduction

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Welcome to an exploration of the world of Norse mythology as documented in The Prose Edda. This timeless literary artifact, penned around 1220 by the distinguished Icelandic scholar and statesman Snorri Sturluson, is a fascinating testament to the rich lore of the Vikings. Its preservation is nothing short of miraculous, allowing us the privilege to delve deep into this fascinating world.

The journey through The Prose Edda is a tale of two parts:

Part I, The Deluding of King Gylfi or Gylfaginning, is an exploration of creation, destruction, and rebirth within the Norse mythical world. It features King Gylfi, the first king to rule in Scandinavia, according to historical records. King Gylfi, our guide through this part, is an unsuspecting participant in an ever-evolving game of visual illusions, masterfully engineered by the Norse Gods themselves. This section serves not just as a thrilling tale but also as a cornerstone for our understanding of the Icelandic texts and Norse legends from the 13th-century.

Part II, The Conversations of Bragi or Skáldskaparmál, presents an engaging dialogue between Ægir, a Norse giant that is the personification of the sea, and Bragi, the Norse God of poetry. This conversation offers a unique perspective on the Norse sagas.

To enhance the reader's experience, this book includes 35 dramatic illustrations. These visuals offer an additional layer of understanding, bridging the gap between our modern interpretations and the ancient Norse world. An especially noteworthy aspect of The Prose Edda is its introduction of mythical creatures, specifically trolls, elves, and fairies. Did you know that the first known mention of trolls in Norse mythology was in The Prose Edda? This version includes a special chapter examining their origins and significance. To further enrich your journey through The Prose Edda, you’ll find a comprehensive glossary, a chapter on the Norse people during Snorri’s time and a curated list of related movies, TV shows, books, and academic papers. There are also dedicated pages for your personal notes. Thank you for joining this extraordinary journey through time and mythology. Whether you're a Norse mythology enthusiast, a follower of the Norse gods, an ardent fan of Tolkien, or simply a lover of compelling stories, I hope you'll find this exploration of The Prose Edda a rewarding and enlightening experience!

Contents

PART I: THE DELUDING OF KING GYLFI

1.Gefjon’s Plowing

2.Gylfi’s Journey To Asgard

PART II: THE CONVERSATIONS OF BRAGI

3.Of The Supreme Diety

4.Of The Primordial State Of The Universe

5.Origin Of The Hrimthursar, Or Frost Giants

6.Of The Cow Audhumla,