Atlakviða

Atlakviða, also known as The Lay of Atli, is an Old Norse poem found in the Poetic Edda. It is one of the most tragic and brutal of the Eddic poems, detailing the downfall of the Norns and the fate of Gunnar and Högni. The poem centers on the revenge of Gudrun, the wife of Atli, king of the Huns. Gudrun invites her brothers, Gunnar and Högni, to Atli's court, ostensibly for a feast. However, this is a trap. Atli, spurred on by Gudrun's grief and desire for vengeance for the death of her brothers, Svanhild and Hamdir, captures and kills Gunnar and Högni. The poem is known for its grim tone and graphic descriptions of violence. It explores themes of fate, vengeance, familial duty, and the consequences of betrayal. The narrative is presented in a stark and direct manner, emphasizing the inevitability of the tragic events. Atlakviða is considered a significant piece of Norse mythology and literature, offering insights into the values and worldview of the ancient Scandinavians. Its depiction of Gudrun's immense sorrow and her subsequent ruthless pursuit of revenge has made it a memorable and disturbing legend.