Prerequisite
No prior knowledge of Icelandic is required. This is not a dedicated Icelandic language course, but a historical and literary study on Icelandic and Old Norse culture and mythology where some Icelandic passages are read.
Course Description
This course is an introduction to Iceland’s rich, ancient literary history. A careful reading of The Poetic Edda—the source material that describes Odin, Thor, Freya, giants, trolls, Valkyries, heroes, and the Viking Age conceptions of the world. Students will encounter first-hand the epic stories that have inspired Wagner, Tölkien, Borges, Auden, and of course, Marvel. Class discussions will delve into the knotted dramas and linguistic quirks of this masterpiece, leaving students with a firm grasp on the structure of the Viking universe.
A close reading of Egil’s Saga will introduce us to the paradoxical elements of the humans that inhabited this epoch. Despite being a killer, scoundrel and drunk, Egil is one of the most famous Saga “heroes”—A poet and lawyer with much to teach us of the old Icelandic personality. Supplementary material will also be read, explaining allusions in the primary texts and demonstrating their continued relevance today. Readings will be done in English translation, though students should expect to learn key Icelandic words and expressions.
We will also have a Translator’s Chat and Q+A with Jeramy Dodds, translator of The Poetic Edda, where we can pick his brain about the challenges and rewards of dealing with Old Icelandic!
Cost Per Course
We are not offering this course at this time.
Schedule
We are temporarily ON HIATUS and will return shortly. If you’d like to be updated, please join our mailing list here.
Location
THIS IS A VIRTUAL CLASS AND TAKES PLACE USING GOOGLE CHAT in Eastern Time (Toronto/NYC). Instructions on how to join will be sent prior to the first class date.
You can join a WAIT LIST if the class is full. Additional classes may be added as they fill up, and we’ll contact you if a space opens up.
Any questions, please contact us at info@nordiclanguagesinitiative.com.
You can also be added to our mailing list here for future promotions, registration dates and more.
Before registering, view our Refund and Cancellation Policy.
Nordic Languages Initiative 