The Trove

Weekly features of lore, legends, and historical gems from Iceland and beyond.

Egils Saga Manuscript

Egils Saga – The Warrior Poet

Egil Skallagrímsson, a fierce Viking warrior and brilliant skald, is one of the most compelling figures in the Icelandic sagas. This week, we dive into his tale of blood, exile, and poetry...

Written in the 13th century, the saga explores Egil’s violent exploits across Scandinavia and England, and how his poetry became a tool of survival, diplomacy, and mourning.