Scandinavian Folklore

"The North" is simultaneously a location, a direction, and a mystical concept. Although this concept has ancient roots in mythology, folklore, and fairy tales, it continues to resonate today within modern culture. McIntosh leads listeners through the magical and spiritual history of the North, as well as its modern manifestations, as documented through physical records, such as runestones and megaliths, but also through mythology and lore. This mythic conception of a powerful, mysterious Northern civilization was known to the Greeks as "Hyberborea" - the "Land Beyond the North Wind".

Magic and myth inhabit these chapters in figures both familiar and strange. Giant trolls and talking animals are everywhere. The winds take human form. A one-eyed old woman might seem reminiscent of the Norse god Odin. We meet sly aunts, resourceful princesses, and devious robbers. These stories, set in Norway's majestic landscape of towering mountains and dense forests, are filled with humor, mischief, and sometimes surprisingly cruel twists of fate. All are rendered in the deceptively simple narrative style perfected by Asbjørnsen and Moe.

Nordic Tales is a collection of 16 traditional tales from the enchanting world of Nordic folklore. Translated and transcribed by folklorists in the 19th century, these stories are at once magical, hilarious, cozy, and chilling. Welcome to a world of mystical adventure—where trolls haunt the...

Discover the rich tapestry of Norse mythology with "The Prose Edda: A Beginner's Guide." This enthralling guide unravels the ancient stories that have fueled the imaginations of generations, presenting them in a way that is both accessible and engaging. Delve into a world where gods, giants, and heroes battle not just for supremacy but for survival, influencing the very fabric of existence. Embark on a Mythical Journey: From the creation of the cosmos to the epic Ragnarok, journey through the timeless sagas of the Norse gods. Learn about Odin’s quest for wisdom, Thor’s mighty encounters...

Embark on a Thrilling Journey Through Viking Lore Step into the mystical world of Norse mythology, where gods like Odin, Thor, and Loki face giants, monsters, and fate itself. In Norse Mythology: Legends and Legacy, author Shari Claire takes you on an adventure through timeless stories, blending captivating storytelling with modern insights. This book provides an accessible yet comprehensive guide to Norse myths, exploring the origins, adventures, and cultural significance of these legendary figures. Shari Claire bridges the gap between scholarly research and engaging storytelling, delving ...

Step into the ancient realms of Norse mythology and paganism with this indispensable two-in-one volume, "Norse Paganism & The Prose Edda." Ideal for beginners and enthusiasts alike, this comprehensive guide reveals the heart and soul of the Norse world, from its gods and myths to its timeless wisdom. Uncover the Secrets of Norse Gods: Meet the figures that shaped Norse cosmology—from Odin, the all-seeing, to Freyja, the archetype of love and war. Discover how these gods and goddesses influence the world and inspire the human spirit. Delve into Sacred Rituals: Learn about the rituals and ...

Weird but True Stories from Norwegian Myth and Folklore: Bizarre, Shocking, and Unbelievable Tales from the Land of the Midnight Sun takes readers on a haunting and unforgettable journey through one of the most unique storytelling traditions in the world. From the eerie fiddle songs of the water-dwelling nøkk to the undead draugr guarding Viking tombs, and from seductive forest spirits with hidden tails to the serpent of Lake Seljord, this collection uncovers ten chilling and true tales drawn from authentic Norwegian folklore. Rooted in real locations and passed down through centuries of ...

A Finnish journalist, now a naturalized American citizen, asks Americans to draw on elements of the Nordic way of life to nurture a fairer, happier, more secure, and less stressful society for themselves and their children. Moving to America in 2008, Finnish journalist Anu Partanen quickly went...

This new English translation of Icelandic Fairy Tales marks the first time these stories have been translated from German to English, bringing Josef Calasanz Poestion’s celebrated 1884 collection to a new audience. Poestion’s dedication to capturing Iceland’s rugged beauty and mystical heritage shines in each tale, offering a window into a land shaped by glaciers, volcanic peaks, and an enduring love for storytelling. Within this collection, readers will meet a captivating range of characters central to Iceland’s folklore. Giants and giantesses stride through these pages, as noble ...

Set Norse-inspired world, and packed with myth, magic, and vengeance, The Shadow of the Gods begins an epic fantasy saga from bestselling author John Gwynne. A century has passed since the gods fought and drove themselves to extinction. Now only their bones remain, promising great power to those...

Dive into the Legendary Sagas with Norse Mythology Embark on a visual epic journey through the Norse cosmos with "The Black Book Of The Norse." These compelling images unveil the mystique of Norse mythology, from the awe-inspiring realms of Asgard to the depths of Helheim. Each monochromatic picture invites you into a world where divine drama unfolds. In this enigmatic book, you will see about: How It All Started: In the beginning, with Yggdrasil, The Tree of Creation, The Cosmic Tree, The Tree of Life; and after the end with the Aftermath & Renewal. Explore the Rich Norse Pantheon: From ...

Scandinavian history has been one of dramatic discontinuities of collapse and restarts, from the Viking Age to the Age of Perpetual War to the modern age today. For a thousand years, the Scandinavian countries were kingdoms of repression where monarchs played at the game of being European powers, at the expense of their own populations. The brand we now know as "Scandinavia" is a recent invention. During most of its history, Denmark and Sweden, and to some degree Norway, were bloody enemies. These sentiments of enmity have not been fully settled.

Explore Captivating Viking Tales and Sagas Two captivating manuscripts in one book: Viking Sagas: The Captivating Tale of Ragnar Lothbrok, Ivar the Boneless, Lagertha, and More, in Their Historical Context Tales from the Viking Age: Captivating Legendary and Historical SagasThe period between the end of the eighth century CE and the middle of the eleventh is often called the “Viking Age” because this is the period in which Scandinavian people expanded their contacts with the outside world through trade, raiding, exploration, and colonization. The first manuscript of this book presents a...

The first book of an epic progression fantasy series inspired by Scandinavian folklore, The Witcher, and Dungeons & Dragons, where a young man named Hallik has been training his whole life to become a magic-wielder, or Grimnir, to keep his island safe. But when monsters breach the shield...

From the international bestselling author Anthony Ryan comes the spectacular first novel in a new epic new fantasy trilogy inspired by Norse mythology. A new age has dawned. An age of blood and steel. An age of wrath. The land of Ascarlia, a fabled realm of bloodied steel and epic sagas, has...

As the Age of Wrath reaches its bloody conclusion, the world will be reforged in steel and fire . . . Thera Blackspear was once champion to the Sister Queens. Now she's a queen herself, with Elvine as her spear maiden, wielding a weapon forged by the gods. But while the traitorous Sister Lore...

The second novel of John Gwynne's New York Times bestselling Bloodsworn Saga, this story set in a Norse-inspired world is packed with myth, magic, and vengeance.​ "Visceral, heartbreaking, and unputdownable." —Jay Kristoff on The Shadow of the Gods THE DEAD GODS ARE RISING. Lik-Rifa, the...

The Tale of Creatures & Gods brings to life the mystical beings and powerful deities of old Sweden, blending history, folklore, and immersive storytelling. Deep in the forests of Sweden, where mist curls through ancient trees and lakes shimmer under the moonlight, myths and legends whisper through the ages. Step into the shadows of the forest, where the Skogsrå watches from the trees, Näcken lures travelers with his haunting violin, and trolls stir beneath moss-covered boulders. Venture into the world of the Norse gods, where Odin seeks wisdom, Thor battles giants, and Loki weaves chaos ...

Flykra the Frost Maiden, the outcast daughter of the Frost Giant Snoer, faces a chilling fate when a troll shatters a magic mirror and leaves her wounded. Banished from Huldre village because of her wound, she embarks on a treacherous quest for revenge. Along her journey, she encounters the enigmatic half-elven Iseldur and falls into the clutches of the notorious Yronwode robbers. With guidance from the Sami and Finns, Flykra inches closer to her foe, but her true enemies lurk in the shadows. Will she be avenged and forge a new life with Iseldur... or will she discover a deeper, darker ...

From epic fantasy master and New York Times bestselling author John Gwynne comes the start of an action-packed duology. Enter a world of dark forests and frozen rivers, of ancient myth and forgotten magic, where one young woman's power will decide the fate of a kingdom...