Snorri Sturluson

Born in Iceland in 1179, Snorri Sturluson was a well-known politician, poet, and historian who also held two positions as the lawspeaker of the Icelandic Althing. His upbringing by Jón Loftsson, a member of the powerful Sturlungar clan, gave him a strong education that influenced his intellectual and political development. Texts such as the Prose Edda and Heimskringla provide insight into Norse mythology and kings' sagas. Sturluson's works are essential reading for anybody interested in...See more

Born in Iceland in 1179, Snorri Sturluson was a well-known politician, poet, and historian who also held two positions as the lawspeaker of the Icelandic Althing. His upbringing by Jón Loftsson, a member of the powerful Sturlungar clan, gave him a strong education that influenced his intellectual and political development. Texts such as the Prose Edda and Heimskringla provide insight into Norse mythology and kings' sagas. Sturluson's works are essential reading for anybody interested in learning about Norse culture and medieval Scandinavia. His life, characterized by intricate connections and political aspirations, came to a sudden end in 1241 when he was slain, purportedly by agents of the Norwegian King.Beyond his literary accomplishments, Snorri's career included active participation in Icelandic politics and the development of relationships with Norwegian monarchs. The architectural characteristics of his Reykholt home, which include the well-known Snorralaug hot spring, are well-known. His literary creations - especially his poetry and historical narratives - have had a profound impact on Scandinavian literature and the general knowledge of the history and mythology of the Viking Age. The complexity of Snorri's connection with power and his tragic end underscore the unstable character of medieval Icelandic politics. See less