The Hávamál

by Cyrus Gorgani

The Hávamál , often considered the most sacred and mysterious part of the Elder Edda, was understood as the very Words of Odin, King of the Gods of Asgard, for centuries by the Norse. Across the mists of time, this poem of wise advice to mankind, was the inspiration for some of the Germanic world's greatest explorers, warriors and heroes. The beliefs of the Heathen faith of the Vikings are encapsulated in the Hávamál , whose wisdom on life remains just as relevant today as when it was first recited by the Norse Skálds. Now it is translated line-for-line, un-altered, side-by-side with the Old Norse text, in a clear and concise English edition usable by both spiritual seekers and students of Old Norse language alike.

Genres: History, Religion

160 pages, Paperback

Published October 13, 2018

Reviews

[Stephen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The focus of this book is an attempt to strip away a lot of the "fluff" that many modern scholars add to the The Hávamál and try to get as close to the original meanings and structure as possible. After looking at three other translations when I read this, it's not shockingly different, but you can see where some have added their own ideas into it. Great edition, and the commentary is very solid.

[Scout Dawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are lots of translations of The Hávamál out there, most of which try to sound edgy and/or modernized, but Cyrus Gorgani's edition is a much more bare-bones and truer to its word translation than any I've seen before it.

Recommended for anyone who is looking for something that values accuracy over showiness. A great read, and I'll be referring back to it in the future.

[Alan Tomkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent and accurate translation, well annotated. Good source of heathen wisdom and old Norse perspectives on life.

[Daniel Labonte · Rating 4 out of 5]

The authors passion/insight to reconstruct a true translated version from the old norse scripts is admirably shown throughout the book. As stated a strictly uncensored version that provides an immensely better version/way/path to fully comprehend what is being said; to be able to relate is a more genuine fashion.
Highly recommended for all readers who have a passion or curiosity in norse history.
It was a wonderful read and a great addition to my library.