Viking Legends in World Literature

3 cr · Undergraduate

This class examines works of fantasy literature by J.R.R. Tolkien and others which have been inspired by the “Old North” of medieval Scandinavia and especially by Norse mythology. Beginning in the Romantic era, writers, poets, artists, and musicians granted the gods and goddesses of pre-Christian Scandinavia a prominent presence on the stage of local, national, and world culture, even during centuries of upheaval and unbelief. This course introduces students to key interpreters of northern legend in Iceland and around the world, including the British Isles, America and Argentina. All works will be in English or English translation. May not be held with ICEL 2410 when titled "Infinite Worlds: Norse Mythology in The Modern Age."