A Handbook Of Norse Mythology K Mortensen

This book is a great guide to understanding the major deities, characters, themes, rituals and beliefs of Norse mythology. It examines the folklore of Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Greenland, Iceland and other parts of Scandinavia, from prehistoric tales to contemporary beliefs and practices. The book contains four sections: the first describes the pagan origins of Scandinavia and various deities; the second begins to explore lower mythology and the myths of the gods; the third focuses on religion; and the fourth section contains "The Hero Sagas," "The Volsungs," "The Helgi Sagas," "Volund the Smith," "The Hjathningar" and finally, "Beowulf." This book is the best supplementary text to a study of Norse Mythology, especially the Elder Eddas, which can often be difficult to understand to those not initiated.