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Blóð-Egils þáttr in Knýtlinga saga. Translation, introductory article, commentary
https://doi.org/10.28995/2686-7249-2020-1-102-119
Abstract
The publication includes my translation of Blóð-Egils þáttr as it stands in Knýtlinga saga, with a preface and comments. The same þáttr that occurs in Flateyjarbók was translated by Elena Gurevich, a unique connoisseur and translator of Icelandic þættir, and included into her edition of Icelandic þættir. Blóð-Egils þáttr occupies chapters 33–40 of Knýtlinga saga, but it is presented not as a separate þáttr, but as part of the narration. It might seem that the þáttr contributes to the development of the plot, but Danish sources, some of which the author of the saga had been familiar with, successfully explain the subsequent events without the participation of Bloody Egill. The þáttr serves other purposes: it helps to create the image of King Knut (Knud den Hellige, 1080–1086). In it, all those features of the king that are discussed elsewhere in the saga, are manifested in a concentrated form. The king severely but fairly restores order in his country, while Christian behaviour and law are inseparable for him. A pagan Viking in his youth and a saint in the future, in this þáttr he appears as a zealous Christian who does not want to be bound by ancient laws and customs but affirms the new Christian laws of his country.
About the Author
T. N. JacksonRussian Federation
Tatjana N. Jackson, Dr. of Sci. (History), chief research fellow
bld. 32a, Leninskii Av., Moscow, 119334
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Supplementary files
For citation: Jackson T.N. Blóð-Egils þáttr in Knýtlinga saga. Translation, introductory article, commentary. RSUH/RGGU Bulletin: “Literary Teory. Linguistics. Cultural Studies”, Series. 2020;(1):102-119. https://doi.org/10.28995/2686-7249-2020-1-102-119
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