A valuable contribution to mediaeval studies.MEDIAEVISTIK One of the strongest features of the book is its function as a uniquely authoritative guide to scholarship (and scholarly neglect) in the field. A very welcome addition to skaldic scholarship. SAGA-BOOK [A] richly detailed, informative and imaginative treatment. JOURNAL OF ENGLISH AND GERMANIC PHILOLOGY A successful and well-written conspectus of a subject of huge importance to Norwegian and Icelandic literary and cultural history. It is likely to become the standard text on the subject for English-speaking readers. It is also a beautifully-produced volume. . Most readers will find that this book provides them with the best introduction to Old Norse poetry and its literary and cultural contexts now available. SCANDINAVICA An intellectual and literary history that is rich in content and that takes account of the recent contributions of a wide range of scholars. Coincidentally the book provides an excellent synopsis of the poetry itself, taking examples from unexpected directions and expounding the material in a way that has much to offer both beginners and those who are further advanced in their studies. It therefore unquestionably deserves its place on the reading lists for beginners' courses in Old Norse poetry. SPECULUM
Margaret Clunies Ross is McCaughey Professor of English Language and Early English Literature and Director of the Centre for Medieval Studies at the University of Sydney.