lygasögur

Lygasögur, a Faroese term literally translating to "lying stories" or "tall tales," refers to a genre of traditional Faroese oral literature. These narratives are characterized by their fantastical and often exaggerated content, featuring elements of myth, legend, and folklore. They served as a significant form of entertainment and cultural transmission in the Faroe Islands, particularly before widespread literacy and modern media.

The themes within lygasögur are diverse, encompassing encounters with supernatural beings such as trolls, elves, and ghosts, as well as heroic feats, improbable journeys, and clever trickery. While often presented as fiction, these stories sometimes incorporated historical elements or were used to explain natural phenomena or local traditions in a mythical context. The oral tradition played a crucial role in their preservation and dissemination, with stories being passed down through generations.

Lygasögur were typically told by individuals known as "kvæðamenn" (ballad singers) or other skilled storytellers. The performance of these tales was often accompanied by music or singing, adding to their dramatic effect. Although many lygasögur have been transcribed and collected, their essence lies in their performative nature and the imaginative worlds they conjured for their audiences. The genre reflects the rich cultural heritage and the enduring power of storytelling within Faroese society.