How to Approach the Icelandic Sagas - Insights into Origins, History & Legacy

Jason Doctor is an American of Icelandic descent, a public policy professor at USC with a PhD in psychology.

As Public Outreach Director at Icelandic Roots, he promotes Icelandic heritage through education and events.

 

In this conversation, Jason shares his unique approach to delving into the Icelandic sagas - timeless literary treasures that offer profound insights into history and human nature.

 

Drawing from his extensive immersion into the sagas, Jason provides valuable tips and tricks for navigating these legendary books, offering fresh perspectives on sagas like Njal's Saga, Saga of the Volsungs, Egil's Saga, and the Vinland sagas.

 

Whether you're an Icelandic literary enthusiast or a newcomer to this fascinating realm, this episode promises to deepen your understanding and appreciation of these timeless tales.

 

Journey with us through history, mythology, and the human psyche, as we unravel the mysteries of the Icelandic sagas together! 

 

"Fate guides all, both gods and men."  

-Gunnar of Hlíðarendi quote from Njal's saga which reflects the belief in a predetermined destiny that permeates many sagas - the fatalism that Jason refers to in the podcast.

 

Here's one of Jason's article's about the Vinland Sagas:

https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/the-vinland-sagas