The Influence of Old Norse Literature on English Literature

"The Influence of Old Norse Literature on English Literature" by Conrad Hjalmar Nordby is an academic book from the early 1900s that studies how Old Norse stories and styles affected English writing. The book probably looks at how Norse works inspired famous English authors, such as Thomas Gray and William Morris, showing how Norse myths and Germanic customs appear in English literature. Starting with an introduction, Nordby shares his reasons for writing the book. He points out the connection between Icelandic and Anglo-Saxon languages, implying that readers are already familiar with Norse stories through their own literary heroes. He starts with the history of Old Norse literature, sharing its history up to the Middle Ages. He then points out important changes in English poetry that show Norse influences, like in the poems of Thomas Gray, whose Norse-inspired writings helped usher in Romanticism in literature. Nordby highlights the emotional power that these old stories still have in modern writing, creating a greater respect for their lasting effect.