Our Fathers' Godsaga: Retold for the Young
on Goodreads (50)
What’s inside...
An epic introduction to Norse mythology for students of all ages. Based on the research of the 19th century Swedish poet and scholar, Viktor Rydberg, Our Fathers' Godsaga retells the mythology of Northern Europe in chronological order from Creation to Ragnarök. These are tales told by Vikings, epic tales of gods and giants, elves and dwarves, and of how their interaction and wars affect the first generations of human beings in the North. Based on a comprehensive examination of the source material, including the Icelandic Eddas and Sagas, this is likely the way Germanic mythology looked at the end of the heathen era. Many will recognize themes found here in J.R.R. Tolkien's Silmarillion, particularly the tale of the elf-smith Völund and his quest for revenge against the Aesir, first detailed by Rydberg in his comprehensive Investigations into Germanic Mythology, 1886. This is an original translation of Viktor Rydberg's Fädernas Gudasaga, his own retelling of the complete Norse mythic epic, first published in 1887, and many times since. The text includes a complete catalog of mythic names & the original artwork, from the 1911 German translation, by renowned children's artist John Bauer (1882-1918). This classic Swedish text appears in English now for the first time.
Age
9-12
Length
224 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the different gods in the story show their strengths and weaknesses?
What lessons can we learn from the conflicts or friendships shown among the gods?
Which character did you find the most intriguing, and why?
How do the settings in the story affect the events that happen?
If you could have the power of one god from the story, which would it be and what would you do with it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare the gods in the story with other mythological or fictional characters they know.
Discuss the moral implications of the gods' actions and relate them to real-life scenarios to enhance ethical understanding.
Use vivid illustrations or passages from the book to stimulate visualization and deeper comprehension.
Invite your child to imagine alternate endings for certain episodes in the book to foster creativity and critical thinking.
Encourage drawing or writing a short story inspired by their favorite parts or characters, integrating art into literacy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of bravery and courage
Explanation: The characters in 'Our Fathers' Godsaga' face various challenges and adversities, showcasing their bravery. For instance, their willingness to confront obstacles without yielding to fear.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and challenges, whether it's trying something new or standing up for what is right.
Example Lesson: The value of wisdom and knowledge
Explanation: The book highlights how characters use knowledge and wisdom to make informed decisions and solve problems, emphasizing the importance of intelligence over brute strength.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to value their education and to use knowledge as a tool in their decision-making processes.
Example Lesson: The power of perseverance
Explanation: Characters in the saga often encounter setbacks, yet they continue to strive towards their goals. This persistence is rewarded, teaching the merit of perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by continuing to work towards their own goals, such as improving in a sport or mastering a new skill, despite difficulties.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature and its forces
Explanation: The story incorporates elements of Norse mythology, which often respects and acknowledges the power of natural elements and forces, teaching an appreciation for the environment.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in how children interact with the environment around them, promoting activities like recycling, conservation, and the respectful enjoyment of natural spaces.