The Prose Edda: Norse Mythology (Penguin Classics) Kindle Edition

Don't discount this edition based on previous reviews by folks who failed to read the introduction and instead got one paragraph into the prologue and dismissed it. In the introduction, it is explained that the "In the beginning" section is a stand alone section and differs from the rest of the book in sentence structure and subject matter; likely written to appease a more Christian populace (at the time). All the giants and dwarves and gods are here.

The Poetic Edda and The Prose Edda. Both beautiful works and both depicting the beliefs of our ancestors. I only wish other translations were available readily of these important works. Sturluson's Christianity comes out in his writings all too often as he is constantly searching for Christ in the works of our Old Gods. They are not there. So, his church created them. Making Jesus' birthday on the 25 of Dec. in order to coincide with Yule and the winter solstice, two of our most important holidays. Giving the Celts Mary to pray to in order to satisfy their search for a divine female mother figure to worship. Christianity has taken so much from our heritage, our lives and our planet as a force for both good and evil, but mostly I think the most heinous acts of world history were done in the name of Christ. Please don't get butt hurt and comment back to me about how I am attacking Christians. I'm just pointing out that they were responsible for the crusades, the inquisition, the burning of innocent young girls accused of witchcraft and many more. And I know all the other world religions have been bled and died for. But he could've just translated the text and left his own spiritual journey for another writing. Asatru', Odinism, whatever you call it has shed it's fair share of blood as well. However, they never claimed to be anything but warriors. It was a Norseman's wish to die honorably upon the battlefield so he may be carried to Valhalla, fighting and feasting in Odin's great hall until Ragnarok.

I have been reading and studying mythologies since I was a kid. I could regale you for hours on the exploits of various Greek gods and heroes. When it came to Norse mythology though I found myself somewhat lacking. I knew some of the stories, but not as well as I could have. I did some research and found this book. Now, there are two Edda(s) to look for when it comes to Norse mythology. There is the Poetic Edda, which details a number of these stories in the original verse, and this, the Prose Edda, which translates these myths into prose (duh). The Prose edition is the easiest way to digest these stories for new readers. You get a good overlay of everything from the very beginning of the Nine Worlds to the Ragnarok prophecy which details the death of the gods and the end of all. As far as this edition goes I've always found Penguin Classics to be very reliable when it comes to older, classical works. I've read many of such classics through them. If you find yourself curious to read about the various legends of the old Viking North then this is the single best choice to do it.5/5P.S. (I should also mention that as a Marvel Comics fan, I find being able to compare their versions of these stories with the original myths incomparable. )

This is a very interesting read for anyone interested in Norse culture or Viking age lore and customs. It doesnt describe the people themselves in any detail but tells the story of the Norse patheon on Gods and Godesses and the creation story of the world according to the Norse belief system. Fans of Vikings or Last Kingdom who are interested in the back story of the Gods mentioned in the shows will find this book very accessible, written in easy to follow english and very interesting to read. Anyone with an interest in Norse or Viking culture will enjoy learning more about their belief systems. Highly recommended for anyone interested in Norse mythology.

I finally found the book of my ancestors! I've heard for years about the prose edda, but I finally decided to read it. This book is incredible from front to back. The prose edda is a MUST HAVE for anyone wanting to know about their ancestory or just about Odin, Thor, Freya etc. etc.

It was a little shorter than I had hoped. All in all, this is a wonderfully crafted collection of Norse history. The prose is easy to follow, and the stories are second to none. I would definitely recommend this book to others.

Great book discussing the entirety of Norse mythology and the story behind the author of the original text. Translation is great and its quite enthralling - including how the mythology was originally created and technically this can be considered a "spin off" to the AEneid (which is a "spin off/sequel" of the Illiad). The third part isn't as intriguing since its a dinner party and not Odin just delivering straight exposition for 50 pages as it is in the first half. Its also nice to see them directly refer to the Poetic Edda as well. Printing is also fine quality with a nice map.

The best way for me to describe this book is that it is the bible of the Norse men.It has all the main details and stories to explain the start of time to the end of it in their beliefs.If you have an interest in learning about the Norse beliefs, to find out who's who, or for more information on the age long stories of the gods and goddesses, this is a very good starting point.

As a complete novice, but someone who enjoys mythology, this book was a fun read. Would enjoy more mythology books in this style

I enjoyed this, easy to read but a good collection of tales from a culture I know of but didnt know.Being british there are little references to things that influence back home i found interesting.

Absolutely love old norse writings and this book is a perfect start for anyone interested in thw mythology.My only downside is that the description on the buy page states 300 so pages which the actual product is not.That being said, I still recommend it.

Wonderful read.