1878 Rare First English Edition - Frithiof's Saga: A Legend of Ancient Norway. Illustrated Viking Tales of the North.
(Description)
Author: Esaias Tegnér. L. A. Sherman, translator.
Title: Frithiof's Saga: A Legend of Ancient Norway.
Publisher: Boston, James R. Osgood and Company, 1878. First English Edition.
Language: Text in English.
Size: 12" X 9".
Pages: xiii-237 pages
Binding: Attractive and near fine original full-cloth binding with intricate gilt decoration on the front cover and spine. The cover design includes ornate Norse-inspired patterns framing the title, with a Viking ship motif (hinges fine, overall slightly scuffed - as shown) under a protective removable mylar cover. All edges gilt.
Content: Very good, near fine content (bright, tight and clean, rare light foxing or staining - as shown, toning to first endpaper - as shown).
Illustrations: This edition is illustrated with detailed woodcut engravings for each chapter, which enhance the narrative of the saga. The illustrations depict scenes from Norse mythology and epic moments of Frithiof's journey.
Estimate: (USD 350 - USD 500).
The book: Frithiof's Saga is a celebrated Swedish epic poem by Esaias Tegnér, first published in 1825 and later translated into numerous languages. It tells the tale of Frithiof, a Viking hero, and his tragic love for Ingeborg, the daughter of King Bele. The poem is divided into cantos, each recounting a portion of Frithiof's adventures, his trials, and the triumphs of Norse valor and mythology. This 1878 edition, published by James R. Osgood and Company, features L. A. Sherman's translation and includes detailed illustrations that vividly bring the story to life. The layout, typography, and decorative borders around the text enhance the reader's engagement with the material.
The author: Esaias Tegnér (1782-1846) was a Swedish poet and bishop, best known for his work Frithiof's Saga, which is considered one of the most influential epic poems in Swedish literature. His poetic style blends classical influences with the oral traditions of Scandinavian folklore. Tegnér's contributions to Swedish literature and his place in the Romantic movement cemented his legacy as one of Sweden's greatest poets.
The illustrator: L. A. Sherman, Ph.D., was an American scholar of languages and literature. His translation of Frithiof's Saga from the original Swedish into English captures the poetic rhythm and grandeur of the original while making it accessible to English-speaking audiences.