Olav Audunsson: III. Crossroads

The third volume of Olav Audunssøn's epic story of medieval Norway, Crossroads, is a powerful re-creation of a vanished world tainted by bloodshed and haunted by sin and retribution. Set in a time and place where royalty and religion vie for power, and bloodlines and loyalties are law, the book conveys the intimate drama and epic sweep of Olav's story as grief and guilt drive him to ever more desperate action. Olav Audunssøn's epic story of medieval Norway, Crossroads, is a powerful re-creation of a vanished world tainted by bloodshed and haunted by sin and retribution. Set in a time and place where royalty and religion vie for power, and bloodlines and loyalties are law, the book conveys the intimate drama and epic sweep of Olav's story as grief and guilt drive him to ever more desperate action.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 08 November 2022
Publisher: University of Minnesota Press

In the early fourteenth century, Norway finds itself embroiled in a tumultuous political landscape, grappling with internal strife and conflicts with neighboring Sweden and Denmark. The backdrop of this period is marked by bloody family vendettas and conflicting loyalties, fueled by the uncontrollable passion of a young boy and his foster sister, who is also his betrothed. These intricate web of relationships sets in motion a series of tragic events, leaving a legacy of betrayal, murder, and disgrace that echoes through the generations.

Crossroads, the third installment of Olav Audunssøn's renowned four-volume series, delves into the depths of Olav's emotional turmoil. Having suffered the loss of his beloved wife, he feels deeply disconnected from his son. To seek solace from his grief, Olav embarks on a transformative journey, leaving his home estate of Hestviken and accepting a position as a captain on a merchant ship bound for London.

As Olav sets sail on this unfamiliar path, he finds himself in a world entirely foreign to him. Separated from the familiar surroundings, he embarks on a visionary quest that takes him deep into the forest and into the depths of his soul. Throughout his journey, Olav grapples with profound questions about his past decisions, future plans, and his perception of love, guilt, sin, vengeance, and forgiveness.

Set in a time when royalty and religion vie for power, and bloodlines and loyalties hold immense significance, Crossroads offers a captivating portrayal of Northern life during medieval times. The Swedish Academy recognized the profound impact of Sigrid Undset's work by awarding her the Nobel Prize in 1928. Through its vivid storytelling, Crossroads captures both the intimate drama and the epic scope of Olav's story, as his grief and guilt drive him to increasingly desperate actions.

Und. Like her earlier medieval epic, Kristin Lavransdatter, Und. delves into the complexities of human relationships, societal norms, and the moral dilemmas of a bygone era. It is a testament to Undset's exceptional literary talent and her ability to transport readers to a distant time and place, while exploring the universal themes of love, loss, redemption, and the search for meaning in life.

Weight: 255g
Dimension: 210 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781517913342