Handan þokunnar

Um efnisþætti og innra samhengi Ólafs sögu Þórhallssonar

Abstract

In Eiríkur Laxdalʼs Ólafs saga Þórhallasonar, we are introduced to a narrative world that is both unique and traditional. This imagined realm is simultaneously familiar, as its primary elements are drawn from local storytelling traditions, including folklore and literature from earlier centuries. Eiríkur uses this narrative world as a framework for the travels of his protagonist, Ólafur Þórhallason, who encounters numerous individuals, both humans and elves, during his journeys. Within the broad narrative structure focusing on Ólafurʼs travels, the author creates many structural elements, so that stories emerge within stories, and threads within threads.

This article focuses on one particular episode from Ólafs saga Þórhallasonar, specifically chapters 11–19, which are included in a chapter called the second evening reading (a reading during the kvöldvaka). This episode recounts the story of Sveinn and his brothers, who have lived in the Icelandic Highlands since their parents went into exile due to a criminal case. The narrative also involves twelve brothers, outlaws who are under a curse, and it falls to Sveinn to free them from their misfortune. In addition to examining from where Eiríkur drew his ideas for this episode and how he developed them, the article will explore the extent to which his method was considered innovative at the time when he composed his saga and what stands out in this regard.