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A review by lisa_setepenre
Norse Myths: A Guide to the Gods and Heroes by Carolyne Larrington
5.0
The Norse Myths: A Guide to Viking and Scandinavian Gods and Heroes has quickly become one of my favourite books on Norse mythology. It is a basic introduction to the mythology, so individuals wanting more analysis or discussion, or those already very familiar with Norse myths may not find this book that insightful or interesting.
I’m by no means an expert on Norse mythology, though it is a topic I’m interested in – and as such, I’ve read a few retellings, such as those by Neil Gaiman, Joanne Harris and Mike Vasich. While author Carolyne Larrington does retell the myths, her approach is a scholarly one. Thus, her retellings are more like summaries that allow for her to provide commentary on the myths – their sources, the historical and cultural context they were written in (such as the impact of the spread of Christianity), the themes and depictions of heroic qualities found in them.
It’s not something I’ve previously come across, and Larrington’s approach is very beginner friendly. Additionally, Larrington’s writing style is clear and accessible, and sometimes (but not too often) humorous.
I can’t claim that The Norse Myths is a ground-breaking work – I simply haven’t read enough to know. But I do think this is a great introduction to those who want to know more about the myths.
I’m by no means an expert on Norse mythology, though it is a topic I’m interested in – and as such, I’ve read a few retellings, such as those by Neil Gaiman, Joanne Harris and Mike Vasich. While author Carolyne Larrington does retell the myths, her approach is a scholarly one. Thus, her retellings are more like summaries that allow for her to provide commentary on the myths – their sources, the historical and cultural context they were written in (such as the impact of the spread of Christianity), the themes and depictions of heroic qualities found in them.
It’s not something I’ve previously come across, and Larrington’s approach is very beginner friendly. Additionally, Larrington’s writing style is clear and accessible, and sometimes (but not too often) humorous.
I can’t claim that The Norse Myths is a ground-breaking work – I simply haven’t read enough to know. But I do think this is a great introduction to those who want to know more about the myths.