A review by stig_dyrdal
Kristin Lavransdatter, I: The Wreath by Sigrid Undset

4.0

[b:The Wreath|6220|The Wreath (Kristin Lavransdatter, #1)|Sigrid Undset|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1446567379s/6220.jpg|25477] is the first novel in the Kristin Lavransdatter-trilogy of historical novels written by Nobel laureate Sigrid Undset. This work formed the basis of Undset receiving the 1928 Nobel Prize in Literature, which was awarded to her "principally for her powerful descriptions of Northern life during the Middle Ages". And it was well deserved.

This section of the trilogy is named for the golden wreath Kristin wears as a young girl, which is reserved for virgins of noble family. It symbolizes her innocent life before she meets Erlend; after he seduces her, she is no longer entitled to wear it, but does so out of fear of her sin coming to light.


Undset's description of the Norwegian landscape and its inhabitants and culture is phenomenal! It's clear that a great deal of research and effort went into this book. I don't particularly enjoy the angsty teenager character trope that is Kristin, but I somehow learned how to love to hate her. I did however immensely enjoy the dynamic between Kristin and her parents. The old-timey prose took some getting used to, but it worked in the story's advantage. This first installment is a true literary gem and I look forward to continue with the trilogy one day.