The End of the World in Scandinavian Mythology: A Comparative Perspective on Ragnaroek

The End of the World in Scandinavian Mythology is a book that reconsiders the Ragnarök myth and sheds new light on it using new comparative evidence. It addresses the question of Christian influence on Ragnarök and concludes that it is an independent pre-Christian myth with closest analogies in ancient Iran. The book is relevant today as it expresses fears and hopes about the future that are common in many ancient religions.

Format: Hardback
Length: 480 pages
Publication date: 18 October 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The End of the World in Scandinavian Mythology delves into a comprehensive exploration of the Scandinavian myth surrounding the end of the world, known as Ragnarök. This myth is further examined in the context of its historical background. While the Old Norse texts, such as the Prophecy of the Seeress and the Prose Edda of the Icelander Snorri Sturluson, are widely recognized and extensively discussed, Anders Hultgård argues that it is valuable to reexamine the Ragnarök myth and shed new light on it through the use of comparative evidence. Additionally, he presents translated texts that are typically accessible only to specialists, further enriching our understanding of this ancient myth.

In addressing the intricate question of Christian influence on Ragnarök, the author conducts a detailed analysis, ultimately concluding that an independent pre-Christian myth with the closest analogies can be found in ancient Iran. This revelation adds an intriguing dimension to the study, suggesting that the myth's origins may extend beyond the traditional Christian narrative.

In contemporary society, people are deeply concerned with the future of our world, and these same fears and hopes are expressed in various ancient religions, which have been transformed into myths of the future. The Ragnarök myth stands as a classical example of such myths, retaining its relevance in the modern era more than ever before. Its portrayal of cosmic destruction and renewal resonates with our contemporary concerns, making it a valuable tool for understanding the human condition and our place in the universe.

Through the meticulous examination of the Ragnarök myth and its comparative context, The End of the World in Scandinavian Mythology offers a profound insight into the rich tapestry of ancient beliefs and narratives. It encourages us to reevaluate our understanding of the past and embrace the lessons learned from these ancient stories as we navigate the challenges and opportunities of the present and future.

Weight: 940g
Dimension: 240 x 165 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192867254