Overview

Iceland is one of the last places on earth to be permanently settled by humans, and yet it developed one of the richest literary traditions of the medieval world. Settled by Norse Vikings in the ninth century, Iceland established the world's oldest functioning parliament in 930 AD and produced the Icelandic sagas, some of the most significant literary documents of the Middle Ages. This book traces Iceland's history from its settlement to the present day. Covering the Commonwealth period, the centuries of Norwegian and Danish rule, the devastating famines and volcanic eruptions that periodically devastated the island's population, the independence movement of the twentieth century, and Iceland's modern development into one of the world's most literate and progressive societies, this book offers a complete picture of a small nation with an outsized cultural legacy. Contents: Reader review: ""I visited Iceland last year and this book gave me a much deeper appreciation for what I saw. The history is remarkable and very well told."" -- K. Johansson This title suits Scandinavian history, European history, and travel reference sections. It is appropriate for public libraries, trade bookstores, and wholesale accounts with customers interested in Northern European history and culture. Order now.

Full Product Details

9783565083244

Table of Contents

Reviews

★★★★★ ""A beautiful, balanced journey through Iceland's incredible past. The chapters on the sagas and the Althing are pure magic."" - Lars H., Scandinavian Studies Professor ★★★★☆ ""Finally, a readable single-volume history that doesn't skim the medieval period. The volcanic and climate sections are gripping."" - Emma R., Travel Writer ★★★★★ ""Took this book to Iceland and read it by the fire in a turf house. Felt like the sagas came alive."" - Sophie M., Adventure Traveler ★★★★★ ""The conversion to Christianity chapter is one of the most fascinating things I've ever read. Peaceful yet profound."" - Daniel K., History Enthusiast ★★★★ ""Excellent on culture and literature, lighter on 20th-century politics, but still my new go-to Iceland history."" - Olivia T., Librarian ★★★★★ ""Explains why Icelanders are the way they are today. Resilience, storytelling, quiet strength, all here."" - Bjørn S., Icelandic Expat ★★★★★ ""Perfect blend of geology, sagas, and social history. Already planning my next trip with new eyes."" - Rachel L., Book Club Member ★★★★☆ ""The sections on women in the sagas and daily life opened my mind completely. Highly recommend."" - Nina P., Literature Student ★★★★★ ""Reads like a novel while staying rigorously accurate. Iceland's story deserves this treatment."" - Markus F., Documentary Filmmaker ★★★★★ ""From the first eruption to modern independence, every page inspires awe. A treasure."" - Ingrid J., Genealogist

Author Information

Hi, I'm Auke, a passionate advocate for the Frisian language with deep roots in Frisian culture. I grew up in this vibrant heritage and have dedicated myself to preserving our unique linguistic identity. It's spoken by about 500,000 people, mostly in Friesland, Netherlands. As a key contributor to Skriuwer.com, I work with others to create books that educate and inspire, helping ensure the Frisian language, recognized as an official language alongside Dutch, stays alive for future generations. My work comes from a strong belief in language as the foundation of history and belonging. I'm proud that proceeds from these books support nonprofit efforts like De Fryske Wrâld. Join me in sustaining this ancient European tongue. Let's keep Frisian thriving.

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