Snorri Sturluson 
The Chronicle of the Kings of Norway (Heimskringla) 

Snorri Sturluson’s ’The Chronicle of the Kings of Norway (Heimskringla)’ is a historical masterpiece that chronicles the lives and reigns of the Norwegian kings from the legendary Yngling dynasty to the reign of Magnus the Blind. Written in Old Norse prose, this literary work provides a comprehensive account of Norwegian history and mythology, blending facts with folklore. Sturluson’s skillful storytelling and detailed descriptions immerse readers in the world of medieval Norway, making it a valuable resource for historians and literature enthusiasts alike. The inclusion of sagas and legends adds an element of mystique to the history presented in the book, creating a rich tapestry of Norse culture and traditions. As an Icelandic historian, poet, and politician, Snorri Sturluson drew upon his extensive knowledge of Norse history and literature to write ’Heimskringla.’ His deep connection to Icelandic and Norwegian heritage inspired him to preserve the tales of the kings for future generations. Sturluson’s political ambitions and desire to elevate Nordic culture are evident in the meticulous research and poetic language used throughout the chronicle. For readers interested in delving into the rich history and mythology of medieval Norway, ’The Chronicle of the Kings of Norway’ is a must-read. Sturluson’s masterful storytelling and historical accuracy make this book a captivating and informative journey into the fascinating world of the Norse kings.

Om författaren

Snorri Sturluson (1179 – 23 September 1241) was an Icelandic historian, poet, and politician, known primarily for his significant contributions to Icelandic literature and the preservation of Norse mythology and Scandinavian history. Sturluson’s legacy is closely tied to his work as the author of the ’Heimskringla’ or ’The Chronicle of the Kings of Norway’, a monumental compilation of the sagas narrating the history of the Norwegian kings from the legendary times until around 1177. Displaying a unique blend of historical fact and oral tradition, the ’Heimskringla’ is celebrated for its detailed characterizations and vivid narratives, illuminating the culture and politics of medieval Scandinavia. His narrative style is marked by a clear and direct prose, which, while rooted in the oral storytelling tradition, marked a significant development towards a more historical and secular writing that influenced the historiography of his time and beyond. Sturluson’s other notable works include ’Snorra Edda’ or ’Prose Edda’, a manual of Old Norse poetics and mythology, which has served as a vital source for understanding Norse lore, and the ’Ægisdóra’, a collection of mythological and heroic poetry. As a political figure, he was deeply embroiled in the complex and often violent power struggles that characterized 13th-century Iceland, which eventually led to his assassination. His works, however, have transcended his own turbulent lifetime, securing Snorri Sturluson’s place as a cornerstone figure in medieval Norse literature and historiography.