Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
The Skalds explained
This chapter introduces the Skalds, the bards and poets of early Scandinavian civilization, who served as the keepers of historical lore and provided intellectual and artistic entertainment at warriors' feasts by reciting the exploits of he
What happens
This chapter introduces the Skalds, the bards and poets of early Scandinavian civilization, who served as the keepers of historical lore and provided intellectual and artistic entertainment at warriors' feasts by reciting the exploits of heroes through poetry and music. Their compositions, known as Sagas, have survived as valuable historical records and depictions of contemporary society.
Themes in this chapter
Cultural Transmission and Education
The Skalds function as the depositaries of historic lore, transmitting cultural knowledge and heroic exploits through oral tradition.
Heroism and the Quest
The Skalds rehearse the exploits of heroes, celebrating their deeds and preserving their legacy for future generations.
Key passages
“The Skalds were the bards and poets of the nation, a very important class of men in all communities in an early stage of civilization.”
In early civilizations, skalds held a crucial role as the poets and storytellers of their people.
Establishes the social importance of skalds in early societies.
“They are the depositaries of whatever historic lore there is, and it is their office to mingle something of intellectual gratification with the rude feasts of the warriors, by rehearsing, with such accompaniments of poetry and music as their skill can afford, the exploits of their heroes living or dead.”
Skalds preserved historical knowledge and enriched warriors' feasts by reciting heroic deeds through poetry and music.
Describes the dual function of skalds as historians and entertainers.
“The compositions of the Skalds were called Sagas, many of which have come down to us, and contain valuable materials of history, and a faithful picture of the state of society at the time to which they relate.”
The sagas composed by skalds have survived and offer valuable historical insights and accurate depictions of their contemporary society.
Highlights the enduring historical value of saga literature.