Iceland's 1100 Years: History of a Marginal Society

This volume recounts the history of a society on the margin of Europe as well as on the margin of reaching the size and wealth of a proper state - Iceland.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 02 July 2020
Publisher: C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd

Iceland's 1100 Years: A Tale of Marginality and Transformation

Iceland's history unfolds as a captivating narrative of a society that straddles the boundaries of Europe and the quest for statehood. Unlike many of its European counterparts, Iceland emerged during the Viking Age, marking its foundation as a latecomer to the civilized world. What sets Iceland apart is its remarkable resilience in the face of the challenges that followed the introduction of Christianity and the art of writing. This era, known as the Sagas, represents not only a rich literary tradition but also a invaluable treasure trove of information about a stateless society.

However, a contrasting picture emerges when we examine the early modern period of Iceland's history. The Sagas depict a prosperous society, filled with wealth and grandeur. Yet, the reality of early modern Iceland appears to be far less appealing. The question arises: What led to this decline? Was it the influence of foreign rule, the harsh climate, or an unfortunate internal power structure? Or perhaps, as some historians suggest, was the Golden Age a creation of 19th-century nationalists, seeking to rewrite Iceland's history?

Iceland's adoption of nationalism was swift and comprehensive. In the mid-19th century, a mere 60,000 inhabitants, predominantly poor peasants, embarked on a mission to gain independence from Denmark. Their determination and perseverance paid off, culminating in the establishment of a republic in 1944. Over the subsequent decades, Iceland has made remarkable strides in economic development, catching up with its closest neighbors. This remarkable transformation has been driven primarily by the mechanization of fishing, which sparked a second battle for sovereignty, this time over the country's fishing grounds.

The Sagas serve as a reminder that history is not always linear and that the narratives we construct may not always reflect the truth. Iceland's journey through time highlights the complexities and contradictions that shape a nation's development. It reminds us that the search for identity, sovereignty, and economic prosperity is a continuous process that is shaped by a myriad of factors, both internal and external. As we continue to explore the rich tapestry of history, let us remain open to different perspectives and seek to understand the complexities of the past in order to shape a more inclusive and prosperous future.

Weight: 694g
Dimension: 138 x 215 x 45 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781849049115
Edition number: New paperback edition