The Norse Myths That Shape the Way We Think
Carolyne Larrington
Hardback (02 Mar 2023)


Publishers Synopsis

A fresh look at the stories at the heart of Norse mythology, exploring their cultural impact right up to the present day.

The heroes and villains of Norse mythology have endured for centuries, infiltrating art, opera, film, television and books, shape-shifting - like the trickster Loki - to suit the cultures that encountered them. Through careful analysis of the literature and archaeology of the Norse world, Carolyne Larrington takes us deep into the realm described in the Icelandic sagas, from the gloomy halls of Hel to the dazzling heights of Asgard. She expertly examines the myths many modern-day reimaginings, revealing the guises that have been worn by the figures of Norse myth, including Marvels muscled, golden-haired Thor and George R.R Martins White Walkers, who march inexorably southwards, bringing their eternal winter with them.

This sophisticated yet accessible guide explores how these powerful stories have inspired our cultural landscape, from fuelling the creative genius of Wagner to the construction of the Nazis nationalist ideology. Larringtons elegantly written retellings capture the essence of the original myths while also delving into the history of their meanings. The myths continue to speak to such modern concerns as masculinity and environmental disaster - after the inevitable, apocalyptic ragna rök, renewal comes from the roots of Yggdrasill, the World Tree.


Book information

ISBN: 9780500252345
Publisher: Thames and Hudson Ltd
Imprint: Thames and Hudson
Pub date: 02 Mar 2023
DEWEY: 398.20948
DEWEY edition: 23
Language: English
Sales rank: 8415
Number of pages: 303, 16 unnumbered of plates
Weight: 682g
Height: 243mm
Width: 167mm
Spine width: 34mm