The Death of Balder By: Johannes Ewald (1743-1781)
The Death of Balder by Johannes Ewald is a haunting and poignant play that delves into themes of tragedy, love, and betrayal, and leaves a lasting impact on its readers. Set in the world of Norse mythology, the story follows the downfall of the beloved god, Balder, as prophesied by his mother, Frigg. Ewald's writing beautifully captures the essence of ancient Nordic myths, bringing to life a tale of gods and mortals caught in a web of deceit and destiny. The play is divided into five acts, each one building upon the tension and suspense that permeates throughout. The author's masterful use of dialogue and evocative imagery creates a vivid and immersive reading experience, transporting readers to a world where gods and goddesses reign. Central to the narrative is the character of Balder, portrayed as a symbol of innocence and purity. Ewald's portrayal of Balder is deeply moving, making the audience empathize with his vulnerability and inner turmoil. Balder's tragic fate becomes all the more heart-wrenching as he is betrayed by those closest to him, particularly his blind twin brother, Hod. The themes explored in The Death of Balder are universal and timeless. In particular, the play delves into the complexities of love and loyalty, highlighting the devastating consequences of jealousy and betrayal. Through the character of Balder, Ewald prompts readers to reflect on the nature of goodness and the destructive power of envy and greed. Another notable aspect of the play is Ewald's attention to the divine and supernatural. The presence of gods such as Thor, Odin, and Loki adds an otherworldly dimension to the narrative, reflecting the belief in ancient Norse mythology. The author explores the interactions between mortals and gods, blurring the lines between the divine and the human, and inviting readers to question their own place in the grand scheme of things. The Death of Balder is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged play that leaves a lasting impression on its readers. Ewald's exquisite storytelling, combined with his exploration of profound themes, makes this a captivating read for fans of mythology, tragedy, and classic literature. Be prepared to be captivated by the beauty and tragedy that unfolds in this timeless tale. First Page: Transcribed by David Price, email ccx074@coventry.ac.uk An Edition of 250 Copies only will be printed. No more will be published. THE DEATH OF BALDER FROM THE DANISH OF JOHANNES EWALD (1773) TRANSLATED BY GEORGE BORROW Author of "Bible in Spain," "Lavengro," "Wild Wales," etc. LONDON JARROLD & SONS, 3 PATERNOSTER BUILDINGS, E.C. 1889 PREFACE TO THE TRANSLATION. The works of the late poet Ewald are deservedly popular in Denmark. The present tragedy, and the opera of "The Fishermen" ("Fiskerne"), in which occurs the bold lyric which has become the national song of the Danes, are esteemed his best productions. For the fidelity with which the present version has been made I appeal to those of my countrymen who understand the original, and demand whether I have given a thought or expression equivalents to which are not to be found in the Danish tragedy. I have imitated the peculiar species of blank verse in which the original is composed, in order that the English reader may form an exact idea thereof, and though by having done so my poetry may have somewhat of a cramped, embarrassed gait, I have a firm hope that I shall not meet very severe reprehension for having sacrificed elegance to fidelity. GEORGE BORROW. THE PERSONS. Balder. Hother. Thor... Continue reading book >>

The Death of Balder By: Johannes Ewald (1743-1781)

The Death of Balder by Johannes Ewald is a haunting and poignant play that delves into themes of tragedy, love, and betrayal, and leaves a lasting impact on its readers. Set in the world of Norse mythology, the story follows the downfall of the beloved god, Balder, as prophesied by his mother, Frigg.

Ewald's writing beautifully captures the essence of ancient Nordic myths, bringing to life a tale of gods and mortals caught in a web of deceit and destiny. The play is divided into five acts, each one building upon the tension and suspense that permeates throughout. The author's masterful use of dialogue and evocative imagery creates a vivid and immersive reading experience, transporting readers to a world where gods and goddesses reign.

Central to the narrative is the character of Balder, portrayed as a symbol of innocence and purity. Ewald's portrayal of Balder is deeply moving, making the audience empathize with his vulnerability and inner turmoil. Balder's tragic fate becomes all the more heart-wrenching as he is betrayed by those closest to him, particularly his blind twin brother, Hod.

The themes explored in The Death of Balder are universal and timeless. In particular, the play delves into the complexities of love and loyalty, highlighting the devastating consequences of jealousy and betrayal. Through the character of Balder, Ewald prompts readers to reflect on the nature of goodness and the destructive power of envy and greed.

Another notable aspect of the play is Ewald's attention to the divine and supernatural. The presence of gods such as Thor, Odin, and Loki adds an otherworldly dimension to the narrative, reflecting the belief in ancient Norse mythology. The author explores the interactions between mortals and gods, blurring the lines between the divine and the human, and inviting readers to question their own place in the grand scheme of things.

The Death of Balder is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged play that leaves a lasting impression on its readers. Ewald's exquisite storytelling, combined with his exploration of profound themes, makes this a captivating read for fans of mythology, tragedy, and classic literature. Be prepared to be captivated by the beauty and tragedy that unfolds in this timeless tale.

First Page:

Transcribed by David Price, email ccx074@coventry.ac.uk

An Edition of 250 Copies only will be printed. No more will be published.

THE DEATH OF BALDER FROM THE DANISH OF JOHANNES EWALD (1773) TRANSLATED BY GEORGE BORROW

Author of "Bible in Spain," "Lavengro," "Wild Wales," etc.

LONDON JARROLD & SONS, 3 PATERNOSTER BUILDINGS, E.C. 1889

PREFACE TO THE TRANSLATION.

The works of the late poet Ewald are deservedly popular in Denmark. The present tragedy, and the opera of "The Fishermen" ("Fiskerne"), in which occurs the bold lyric which has become the national song of the Danes, are esteemed his best productions.

For the fidelity with which the present version has been made I appeal to those of my countrymen who understand the original, and demand whether I have given a thought or expression equivalents to which are not to be found in the Danish tragedy.

I have imitated the peculiar species of blank verse in which the original is composed, in order that the English reader may form an exact idea thereof, and though by having done so my poetry may have somewhat of a cramped, embarrassed gait, I have a firm hope that I shall not meet very severe reprehension for having sacrificed elegance to fidelity.

GEORGE BORROW.

THE PERSONS.

Balder. Hother. Thor... Continue reading book >>

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Wikipedia – Johannes Ewald
Wikipedia – The Death of Balder

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