The Danish History, Books I-IX By: Grammaticus Saxo
In "The Danish History, Books I-IX" the renowned historian Grammaticus Saxo presents a captivating and comprehensive account of Denmark's rich and intriguing past. Written in the twelfth century, this epic work takes readers on a remarkable journey deep into the annals of Danish history, illuminating the nation's origins, legends, and heroic figures. Saxo's extensive research and meticulous attention to detail shine through in his vivid descriptions of the historical events and characters that shaped Denmark. From the reign of the mythical King Dan to the Viking conquests and the rise of Christianity, the author masterfully intertwines real historical facts with legends and folklore, blurring the lines between history and mythology. One of the notable aspects of this work is Saxo's skillful storytelling, which captivates readers with rich narratives of battles, political intrigues, and personal triumphs. His language is both poetic and evocative, breathing life into ancient times and making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the vivid tapestry of Danish history. Another commendable aspect of "The Danish History" is Saxo's dedication to presenting a balanced perspective. He acknowledges the brutality and violence that characterized certain periods in Danish history, while also highlighting the nation's cultural achievements, legendary heroes, and their profound impact on the development of Denmark's identity. However, it is important to note that while this work is undoubtedly a treasure trove of historical information, it reflects the cultural and social biases prevalent during Saxo's time. The author's Christian lens may lead to certain historical events being interpreted in a manner influenced by religious beliefs, potentially skewing the representation of pagan practices or non-Christian figures. Despite this limitation, Saxo's work remains a cornerstone of Danish historiography, and this updated edition provides valuable footnotes and annotations that help contextualize the text for contemporary readers. Special commendation must be given to the translation, which renders the medieval Latin text into clear and accessible English, making this influential work accessible to a broader audience. In conclusion, "The Danish History, Books I-IX" is an essential read for anyone passionate about Danish history or medieval studies, providing an immersive and captivating exploration of Denmark's remarkable past. Saxo's engaging storytelling and meticulous research ensure that this work will continue to be a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike, shedding light on a nation's history that is as captivating as it is informative. First Page: THE DANISH HISTORY, BOOKS I IX by Saxo Grammaticus ("Saxo the Learned") fl. Late 12th Early 13th Century A.D. PREPARER'S NOTE: Originally written in Latin in the early years of the 13th Century A.D. by the Danish historian Saxo, of whom little is known except his name. The text of this edition is based on that published as "The Nine Books of the Danish History of Saxo Grammaticus", translated by Oliver Elton (Norroena Society, New York, 1905). This edition is in the PUBLIC DOMAIN in the United States. This electronic edition was edited, proofed, and prepared by Douglas B. Killings. The preparer would like to thank Mr. James W. Marchand and Mr. Jessie D. Hurlbut for their invaluable assistance in the production of this electronic text. Thank you. I am indebted to you both. Although Saxo wrote 16 books of his "Danish History", only the first nine were ever translated by Mr. Oliver Elton; it is these nine books that are here included. As far as the preparer knows, there is (unfortunately) no public domain English translation of Books X XVI. Those interested in the latter books should search for the translation mentioned below. SELECTED BIBLIOGRAPHY: ORIGINAL TEXT Olrik, J and Raeder (Ed... Continue reading book >>

The Danish History, Books I-IX By: Grammaticus Saxo

In "The Danish History, Books I-IX" the renowned historian Grammaticus Saxo presents a captivating and comprehensive account of Denmark's rich and intriguing past. Written in the twelfth century, this epic work takes readers on a remarkable journey deep into the annals of Danish history, illuminating the nation's origins, legends, and heroic figures.

Saxo's extensive research and meticulous attention to detail shine through in his vivid descriptions of the historical events and characters that shaped Denmark. From the reign of the mythical King Dan to the Viking conquests and the rise of Christianity, the author masterfully intertwines real historical facts with legends and folklore, blurring the lines between history and mythology.

One of the notable aspects of this work is Saxo's skillful storytelling, which captivates readers with rich narratives of battles, political intrigues, and personal triumphs. His language is both poetic and evocative, breathing life into ancient times and making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the vivid tapestry of Danish history.

Another commendable aspect of "The Danish History" is Saxo's dedication to presenting a balanced perspective. He acknowledges the brutality and violence that characterized certain periods in Danish history, while also highlighting the nation's cultural achievements, legendary heroes, and their profound impact on the development of Denmark's identity.

However, it is important to note that while this work is undoubtedly a treasure trove of historical information, it reflects the cultural and social biases prevalent during Saxo's time. The author's Christian lens may lead to certain historical events being interpreted in a manner influenced by religious beliefs, potentially skewing the representation of pagan practices or non-Christian figures.

Despite this limitation, Saxo's work remains a cornerstone of Danish historiography, and this updated edition provides valuable footnotes and annotations that help contextualize the text for contemporary readers. Special commendation must be given to the translation, which renders the medieval Latin text into clear and accessible English, making this influential work accessible to a broader audience.

In conclusion, "The Danish History, Books I-IX" is an essential read for anyone passionate about Danish history or medieval studies, providing an immersive and captivating exploration of Denmark's remarkable past. Saxo's engaging storytelling and meticulous research ensure that this work will continue to be a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike, shedding light on a nation's history that is as captivating as it is informative.

First Page:

THE DANISH HISTORY,

BOOKS I IX

Saxo Grammaticus

("Saxo the Learned") fl. Late 12th Early 13th Century A.D.

PREPARER'S NOTE:

Originally written in Latin in the early years of the 13th Century A.D. by the Danish historian Saxo, of whom little is known except his name.

The text of this edition is based on that published as "The Nine Books of the Danish History of Saxo Grammaticus", translated by Oliver Elton (Norroena Society, New York, 1905). This edition is in the PUBLIC DOMAIN in the United States.

This electronic edition was edited, proofed, and prepared by Douglas B. Killings.

The preparer would like to thank Mr. James W. Marchand and Mr. Jessie D. Hurlbut for their invaluable assistance in the production of this electronic text. Thank you. I am indebted to you both.

Although Saxo wrote 16 books of his "Danish History", only the first nine were ever translated by Mr. Oliver Elton; it is these nine books that are here included. As far as the preparer knows, there is (unfortunately) no public domain English translation of Books X XVI. Those interested in the latter books should search for the translation mentioned below.

SELECTED BIBLIOGRAPHY:

ORIGINAL TEXT

Olrik, J and Raeder (Ed... Continue reading book >>

This book is in genre
History

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Wikipedia – The Danish History, Books I-IX

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