Heimskringla, or The Chronicle of the Kings of Norway

"Heimskringla," written by the Icelandic poet and historian Snorri Sturlason around 1230, is a monumental collection of sagas about the kings of Norway. The title "Heimskringla" is derived from the Old Norse phrase "kringla heimsins," meaning "the orb of the world," which appears at the beginning of the manuscript. This work is one of the most important sources of medieval Scandinavian history and literature. The collection begins with the mythological saga of the Ynglings, the legendary Swedish dynasty, and continues with the historical accounts of Norwegian rulers from Harald Fairhair in the 9th century to the death of the pretender Eystein Meyla in 1177. The sagas provide a vivid portrayal of the lives, battles, and political intrigues of these kings, offering insights into the cultural and social dynamics of the time. Snorri's narrative skill and historical insight make "Heimskringla" a cornerstone of Old Norse literature. The work is notable for its detailed and dramatic storytelling, which brings to life the legendary and historical figures of Norway's past.