Prose Edda

Definition

The Prose Edda is a collection of Old Norse poems and stories compiled in the 13th century by the Icelandic scholar Snorri Sturluson. It serves as a crucial source for understanding Norse mythology and literature, providing narratives that often connect to the legends surrounding gods, heroes, and creation. Through its structured format, it contrasts with the Poetic Edda, offering a more direct and prose-based approach to these mythological tales.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Prose Edda is divided into three main sections: Gylfaginning (the deluding of Gylfi), Skáldskaparmál (the language of poetry), and Háttatal (a list of poetic forms).
2. It was written in Iceland during a time when Norse mythology was transitioning into folklore, reflecting both pagan traditions and Christian influences.
3. The work includes detailed descriptions of the gods and their characteristics, as well as tales of creation, Ragnarok, and the afterlife.
4. The Prose Edda serves as an important reference for later Scandinavian literature and has influenced various modern interpretations of Norse mythology.
5. Unlike the Poetic Edda, which consists mainly of verse, the Prose Edda is primarily written in prose, making it more accessible for readers interested in narratives.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of the Prose Edda contribute to its role as a source for understanding Norse mythology?
  • The Prose Edda is structured into three distinct parts that each serve a specific purpose in exploring Norse mythology. Gylfaginning presents mythological narratives that illustrate the pantheon of gods and the creation myths. Skáldskaparmál focuses on poetic language and devices used in skaldic poetry, which reveals cultural values through its complexities. Lastly, Háttatal discusses various poetic forms, showcasing how myths were interwoven with literary practices. This structure not only organizes information effectively but also helps readers appreciate both the stories and their cultural significance.
• Discuss the impact of Snorri Sturluson’s background on his writing of the Prose Edda and its themes.
  • Snorri Sturluson was not only a scholar but also a politician living in Iceland during a time when Norse traditions were fading under Christian influence. His dual role allowed him to see the importance of preserving these myths as part of cultural identity. This perspective is evident in the Prose Edda, where he intertwines pagan beliefs with elements that resonate with Christian ideals. This blending reflects his desire to maintain a connection to heritage while adapting to the changing times, making the Prose Edda an essential link between past and present.
• Evaluate how the Prose Edda compares to the Poetic Edda in terms of literary style and historical significance.
  • The Prose Edda and Poetic Edda serve complementary roles in understanding Norse mythology but differ significantly in literary style. The Prose Edda's prose format makes it more straightforward and narrative-driven, allowing for clearer storytelling about gods and heroes. In contrast, the Poetic Edda features a more fragmented and poetic structure that emphasizes metaphorical language and alliteration. Historically, both texts are vital; while the Poetic Edda captures ancient oral traditions, the Prose Edda provides a systematic approach that preserves these myths in a written form, reflecting a key transition in Norse culture from oral to written storytelling.

Related terms

Poetic Edda: A collection of Old Norse poems from the 13th century that contains mythological and heroic tales, often considered a primary source of Norse mythology.

Snorri Sturluson: An Icelandic historian, poet, and politician who is best known for writing the Prose Edda and for his contributions to preserving Norse mythology and history.

Skaldic Poetry: A form of Norse poetry characterized by its complex meters and alliteration, often used to praise kings and heroes in the Viking Age.