Norse Mythology Books and Music
|
|
|
Norse Mythology Books and Music |
| This is a brief discussion of Norse literature, and Norse inspired music , To gain more insight into Norse eddas and sagas, I have read the following books so far and there are many more to read. I have also referenced a classical CD on this topic. |
 Nordic Gods and Heroes |
 |
This is a very elementary book, and easy to read. It
contains some of the essence of more known sagas and eddas in simple to
ready story form. A good introduction to some myths to a young reader
(teen). It doesn't offer any analysis or interpretations.
|
| Myths of the
Norsemen: From the Eddas and Sagas |
 |
This is a fairly good beginner book, with more insight into norse mythology than the prior (Colum) book. Instead of just retelling a saga or edda, it actually offers some interpretation and analysis. There is also some artwork in the book. |
| The Norse Myths |
 |
This book also has translations of selected sagas and myths, but more vivid and colorful translations than the first book again. There is also a good introduction discussing norse sagas, and Snori Sturluson. |
The Poetic Edda |
 |
This book contains actual English translations of eddas in poetic form. There is also a good introduction to the poetic form of eddas in the book. I would recommend reading this book after becoming familiar with some of the eddas from another book. Then it becomes highly enjoyable to read the eddas in their true poetic form. |
Norse Mythology: The Myths and Legends of the Nordic Gods |
 |
This is a very basic book, its primary value is in the photos and illustrations it contains (large and colorful). |
 Wagner Without Words George Szell Cleveland orchestra
|
 |
Although I highly enjoy classical music, I am not a big fan
of opera. But Wagner has truly captured the ambiance and feel
of Norse mythology. Was it not for Wagner, some may not be familiar
with their own European heritage that stems from Norse mythology.
Although some people have stereotypical images of Norse characters, such
as Wagner's opera singing version of Brunhilda, the Valkyrie, one should
concentrate on the music of Wagner, not the visual images of the
opera house. Visuals are better left to the painters who did not depict
the Valkyries in the exaggerated form of an opera singer. Some fine Norse
inspired art developed during the 1800's in Europe (Gruber's Myths of
Norsemen book has some black/white versions of it).
Therefore, this CD is excellent for listening to norse inspired music. Some of the music includes: Das Rheingold, Die Walkure (the Ride of the Valkyries), Siegfried's Funeral March (also featured in the movie Excalibur).
|
 |