The Saga of the Volsungs

Name: The Saga of the Volsungs
Brand: Penguin Random House NZ
SKU: 9780140447385
Price: 29.99 NZD
Availability: InStock

The Norse Epic of Sigurd the Dragon Slayer

By Jesse Byock

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Summary

The Saga of the Volsungs is a historical fiction that delves into the rich tapestry of Norse mythology and legend. It traces the lineage and heroic exploits of the Volsung family, with themes of power, betrayal, and destiny interwoven throughout. As epic battles and mystical creatures fill the pages, the saga explores the complexity of human nature and the forces that shape legendary lives.
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Format: Paperback / softback

$29⁹⁹

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The Saga of the Volsungs

$29⁹⁹

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're fascinated by Norse mythology and legendary sagas. It will appeal to you for its epic tales of heroism, vengeance, and the trials of the Volsung family, woven with rich historical and cultural insights. This gripping narrative promises to transport you into the world of ancient Norse legends.

The Saga of the Volsungs

Combines mythology, legend and human drama. This book focuses on the heroic deeds of Sigurd the dragon slayer who acquires magical knowledge from one of Odin's Valkyries. It incorporates strands from the oral narratives of the fourth and fifth centuries, when Attila the Hun and other warriors fought on the northern frontiers of the Roman Empire.

Description

A tale of princely jealousy and vengeance, The Saga of the Volsungs has been an inspiration for Wagner and J.R.R. Tolkien.

Based on Viking Age poems, The Saga of the Volsungs combines mythology, legend, and sheer human drama. At its heart are the heroic deeds of Sigurd the dragon slayer, who acquires magical knowledge from one of Odin's Valkyries. Yet it is also set in a very human world, incorporating strands from the oral narratives of the fourth and fifth centuries, when Attila the Hun and other warriors fought on the northern frontiers of the Roman Empire.

One of the great books of world literature, the saga is an unforgettable tale of princely jealousy, unrequited love, greed, and vengeance. With its cursed treasure of the Rhine, sword reforged, and magic ring of power, it was a major influence for writers including William Morris and J.R.R. Tolkien and for Wagner's Ring cycle.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Saga of the Volsungs by Jesse Byock has been praised for its engaging narration of a legendary Norse saga, capturing themes of power, betrayal, and vengeance. Readers appreciate Byock's insightful commentary and clear translation, which make the myth accessible and relevant to modern readers. It is often highlighted for bringing a rich mythological tradition to life with both scholarly depth and readability.

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780140447385

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 27 May 1999

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 9.0mm

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 124g

Pages: 160

Collections

Biography & Memoir Fiction General Fiction Historical Fiction Jesse Byock Literary Fiction Penguin Books Penguin Classics

About the Author

The Icelandic author of THE SAGA OF THE VOLSUNGS is unknown and based his prose epic on strories found in earlier Norse poetry. Jesse Bycock is Professor of Icelandic and Old Norse Literature at the University of California and has published work on Medieval Iceland.