
Mature
Length1h 22m
About this audiobook
The Story of Gunnlaug the Worm-Tongue and Raven the Skald is a fascinating blend of Viking lore and poetic sensibility, deeply rooted in the Old Norse literary tradition. The narrative intertwines themes of honor, rivalry, and the transformative power of storytelling, as it recounts the contentious relationship between the clever skald, Gunnlaug, and his adversary, Raven. The prose is laced with vivid imagery and metaphoric language, demonstrating the rich oral tradition that characterized medieval Scandinavian literature. This tale not only showcases the artistry of skaldic poetry but also serves as an insightful reflection on the cultural values of the period, particularly the significance of reputation and memory in a warrior society. The anonymity of the author speaks to the communal nature of storytelling in Norse culture, where individual authorship was often secondary to collective heritage. Emerging from a milieu where oral tradition blended with written expression, the story is likely influenced by the author's understanding of the complexities of life in a harsh, yet rich, Viking society. This historical context enriches the text, providing layers of meaning and an appreciation for the nuances of skaldic art. This book is highly recommended for readers interested in Old Norse literature, Viking history, or the evolution of poetic forms. Its compelling story and cultural resonance make it an invaluable addition to the canon of medieval literature, engaging both scholars and casual readers alike in the vibrant world of the past.
Audiobook details
GenrePoetry
Length1 hr 22 mins
Narrated byListen with 1,000+ voices
FormateBook with Audio
Publish dateNov 21, 2019
LanguageEnglish
Table of contents
1CHAPTER I. Of Thorstein Egilson and his Kin.
10CHAPTER X. How Raven came home to Iceland, and asked for Helga to Wife.
2CHAPTER II. Of Thorsteins Dream.
11CHAPTER XI. Of how Gunnlaug must needs abide away from Iceland.
3CHAPTER III. Of the Birth and Fostering of Helga the Fair.
12CHAPTER XII. Of Gunnlaug’s landing, and how he found Helga wedded to Raven.
4CHAPTER IV. Of Gunnlaug Worm-tongue and his Kin.
13CHAPTER XIII. Of the Winter-Wedding at Skaney, and how Gunnlaug gave the Kings Cloak to Helga.
5CHAPTER V. Of Raven and his Kin.
14CHAPTER XIV. Of the Holmgang at the Althing.
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6CHAPTER VI. How Helga was vowed to Gunnlaug, and of Gunnlaug’s faring abroad.
15CHAPTER XV. How Gunnlaug and Raven agreed to go East to Norway, to try the matter again.
7CHAPTER VII. Of Gunnlaug in the East and the West.
16CHAPTER XVI. How the two Foes met and fought at Dingness.
8CHAPTER VIII. Of Gunnlaug in Ireland.
17CHAPTER XVII. The News of the Fight brought to Iceland.
9CHAPTER IX. Of the Quarrel between Gunnlaug and Raven before the Swedish King.
18CHAPTER XVIII. The Death of Helga the Fair.