Poetic Eddas Reading Group
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What tales were told around the fire in the longhouses of the north?
The Poetic Eddas are the oral literature of Iceland, written down from 1000 to 1300. The Eddas are a primary source for our knowledge of Norse pagan beliefs (aka, Asatru). The poems are a great tragic literature tradition, with vivid descriptions of the emotional states of the protagonists, Gods and heroes alike. The impact of these sagas on world culture is wide-ranging, inspiring works by Richard Wagner and J.R.R. Tolkien.
We will meet to discuss these poems. What lessons to they hold? What thoughts do they inspire? Are they relevant to today? What questions do they raise for you?
For this session we will continue with Havamal, aka "Sayings of the High One".
Use any translation you like, some are available for free. Comparing translations will likely be part of the discussion, so far we have found key differences in interpretation.
Please use the East entrance to the UU.
The Poetic Eddas are the oral literature of Iceland, written down from 1000 to 1300. The Eddas are a primary source for our knowledge of Norse pagan beliefs (aka, Asatru). The poems are a great tragic literature tradition, with vivid descriptions of the emotional states of the protagonists, Gods and heroes alike. The impact of these sagas on world culture is wide-ranging, inspiring works by Richard Wagner and J.R.R. Tolkien.
We will meet to discuss these poems. What lessons to they hold? What thoughts do they inspire? Are they relevant to today? What questions do they raise for you?
For this session we will continue with Havamal, aka "Sayings of the High One".
Use any translation you like, some are available for free. Comparing translations will likely be part of the discussion, so far we have found key differences in interpretation.
Please use the East entrance to the UU.
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