One sentence summary
Neil Gaiman’s Norse Mythology is an enlightening exploration of the fascinating ancient Norse myths and their enduring influence on modern pop culture, art, and literature.
Book genre
Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman is a nonfiction work of Scandinavian mythology, consisting of depictions and interpretations of the gods and goddesses of the Viking Age.
Main topic of the book
Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman is the retelling of the classic Norse myths, from the creation of the universe to the death of the Norse gods.
Key ideas
- Norse culture and mythology: Gaiman goes beyond just narrating the myths and expands on the cultural aspects of Norse peoples, exploring the underlying meanings of the myths, their characters, and how they developed over time.
- Influence of Norse mythology: Gaiman also explores how Norse culture and its myths have been influencing modern-day pop culture, art, and literature.
Main parts of the book and a short summary
- The Beginning: The Norse creation myth, or Mything of Midgard, with its different gods and goddesses competing for influence and control of the world.
- The Legends of Asgard: Gaiman examines the tales of the gods and goddesses of Asgard in great detail, emphasizing the motivations and feelings of the characters behind each myth.
- Ragnarok: The epic battle between the gods and the forces of evil that will decide the fate of the world.
Key takeaways
- A better understanding of the Norse myths and their relevance to contemporary culture
- An appreciation for the mythology, its characters, and their intertwined stories
- A look at how Norse mythology has influenced and continues to influence pop culture
Author’s background and qualifications
Neil Gaiman is an English author of books, graphic novels, and films. He is the bestselling author of American Gods, Coraline, and The Ocean at the End of the Lane. He has written extensively about mythology and folklore and is a longtime student and admirer of Viking culture and Norse mythology.
Target audience
Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman is perfect for readers who are interested in Norse culture, its gods and goddesses, and their lasting influence on modern popular culture. It is an engaging read for fans of Gaiman and his storytelling style, as well as those looking to understand the roots of current popular mythology trends.
Publisher and first publication date
Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman was originally published in February 2017 by W.W. Norton & Company, Inc.