Norse Mythology

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High Middle Ages
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Norse Mythology
Author: Gaiman, Neil
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Time Period: High Middle Ages
Time Frame: 790-1100
Geographic Area: Scandinavia
Country: Norway
Topics: Vikings
Genre: Mythology
Reading Age: Young Adult, Adult
Format: Novel
Published: 2017


World History > High Middle Ages > Vikings

Neil Gaiman, long inspired by ancient mythology in creating the fantastical realms of his fiction, presents a bravura rendition of the Norse gods and their world from their origin though their upheaval in Ragnarok.

In Norse Mythology, Gaiman stays true to the myths in envisioning the major Norse pantheon: Odin, the highest of the high, wise, daring, and cunning; Thor, Odin’s son, incredibly strong yet not the wisest of gods; and Loki―son of a giant―blood brother to Odin and a trickster and unsurpassable manipulator.

Gaiman fashions these primeval stories into a novelistic arc that begins with the genesis of the legendary nine worlds and delves into the exploits of deities, dwarfs, and giants. Through Gaiman’s deft and witty prose, these gods emerge with their fiercely competitive natures, their susceptibility to being duped and to duping others, and their tendency to let passion ignite their actions, making these long-ago myths breathe pungent life again.

Emily's Review

I've always found mythology, particularly Norse mythology to be fascinating. It always gives me the feeling of sitting around a fire and listening to a riveting storyteller. This little book is written in such a way that you can almost hear the storyteller regaling your with tales of the gods. It's all the familiar stories, brought to life by Gaiman's beautiful prose. I highly recommend checking out the audiobook for the full effect!

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