Islendingabók

The Islendingabok, often translated as the Book of Icelanders, is a medieval Icelandic text written by Ari Thorgilsson. It is considered one of the most important historical sources for early Icelandic history, particularly the settlement period and the establishment of the Icelandic Commonwealth. Ari, who was a grandson of a chieftain who participated in the political events of the time, wrote the book in Old Norse.

The primary focus of the Islendingabok is to chronicle the history of Iceland from its settlement around 870 AD to the early 12th century. It details the key figures involved in the settlement, the establishment of the Althing (the Icelandic parliament), and the religious and legal developments of the era. A significant portion of the text is dedicated to the transition from Norse paganism to Christianity in Iceland, a pivotal event that occurred around the year 1000 AD.

Ari's work is notable for its relatively sober and factual approach, distinguishing it from some other sagas which often incorporate legendary or fantastical elements. He aimed to provide an accurate account of events, drawing upon oral traditions and the accounts of those who had firsthand knowledge. While the original manuscript is lost, the text has survived through later transcriptions, primarily within the Flateyjarbok and the Koran. The Islendingabok remains an invaluable resource for historians studying the formation of Icelandic society and its early governance.