Skaldskaparmál

Skaldskaparmal is the second part of the Prose Edda, a work of Norse literature compiled in the early 13th century by the Icelandic scholar and politician Snorri Sturluson. This section serves as a handbook for skalds, the poets of Old Norse society. It is presented as a dialogue between Ægir, a sea giant, and his wife Rán, who question Bragi, the god of poetry, about the origins of kennings and heiti.

Kennings are a characteristic feature of skaldic poetry, consisting of metaphorical compound expressions. For example, "whale-road" is a kenning for the sea. Heiti are poetic synonyms or elevated terms, such as "steed" for horse. Skaldskaparmal systematically explains the etymology and usage of numerous kennings and heiti, drawing heavily on mythological narratives and heroic legends.

The dialogue format allows Snorri to recount many of the well-known Norse myths, including the creation of the Mead of Poetry, the theft of gold by Loki, and the origins of various poetic devices. By detailing these stories, Snorri provides the mythological context for the poetic language. Skaldskaparmal is therefore not only a guide to skaldic poetic conventions but also a vital repository of Norse mythology, preserving tales that might otherwise have been lost. Its structure and content have made it an indispensable resource for understanding the language and mythology of the Viking Age.