File:Eiríksmál, read in Old Norse with English translation

Feel the rhythms of Viking poetry! The fascinating poem written in commemoration of Eiríkr blóðøx, Eric Bloodaxe, commissioned by his fearsome wife Gunnhild, complete with an English translation that preserves the alliterative feel of the original.

The poem is of particular interest as a concrete example of such commemorative poetry, and as a glimpse into the religious dynamics of the society in that era. Although Eric was likely Christian, his wife felt it important to have him immortalized not in Christian fashion, but as a pagan king entering the hall of Odin.

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