fornaldarsaga

Fornaldarsaga refers to a genre of Old Norse sagas that focus on the heroic deeds and legendary past of Norse peoples and Germanic tribes. Unlike the more historically grounded family sagas (Íslendingasögur) which typically depict events in Iceland during the settlement period, fornaldarsögur are set in earlier times, often in Scandinavia, the British Isles, or other parts of continental Europe, and feature mythical or semi-mythical characters and events.

These tales frequently involve kings, warriors, elves, dwarves, giants, and dragons. Common themes include revenge, quests, supernatural elements, romantic entanglements, and battles against monstrous foes. While often fictionalized, they sometimes draw upon historical traditions or reflect societal values and beliefs of the time they were written. Notable examples include Völsunga saga, which tells the story of the hero Sigurd and his family, and Þorsteins saga Víkingssonar, detailing the adventures of a Viking hero.

The term "fornaldarsaga" itself translates to "sagas of ancient times." These stories were primarily composed in Iceland, likely between the 13th and 15th centuries, and were preserved in manuscripts. They offer valuable insights into the imagination, worldview, and literary traditions of medieval Scandinavia, even though their historical accuracy is secondary to their narrative and mythic content. They have significantly influenced later literature, art, and popular culture, particularly in the development of modern fantasy.