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A classic collection of stories by one of the best-known and most esteemed retellers of the last fifty years. Enter a world of cunning, trickery, and revenge. Encounter bold warriors, courageous women, strength in battle and bravery against the odds. These are the stories of the Viking gods. Drama and action abound as legendary heroes struggle against mighty giants, loathsome beasts, and sinister dwarves--even as they fight amongst themselves.
The ancient myths of the Norse pantheon are brought to life through a series of interconnected tales detailing the exploits of gods, giants, and legendary mortals. Barbara Leonie Picard presents these narratives through a traditional storytelling framework, focusing on the cyclical nature of Norse cosmology. The protagonist roles shift between powerful deities like Odin and Thor and mortal heroes facing insurmountable odds. These characters must navigate a world defined by the looming threat of Ragnarok and the constant interference of trickster figures and malevolent creatures. The narrative structure emphasizes the oral tradition, utilizing a formal and evocative tone to capture the grandeur of the Viking age.
Readers and critics frequently highlight the accessibility and clarity of Picard’s prose, which makes complex mythological structures easy to follow. Discussion often centers on the balance between the lighthearted trickery of Loki and the somber, inevitable nature of the gods' ultimate fate. Many appreciate the author's ability to maintain a consistent tone that feels both ancient and immediate. The collection is often cited as a foundational entry point for those interested in Norse mythology, praised for its faithfulness to the source material while remaining engaging for modern readers. The pacing is noted for its steady rhythm, allowing each individual story to stand alone while contributing to the broader scope of the Norse world.
Page Count:
324
Publication Date:
1980-01-01
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
ISBN-10:
0192745131
ISBN-13:
9780192745132
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