John McKinnell Book order

Originally published between 1988 and 2008, these twelve essays cover a wide range of mythological and heroic poems and have been revised and updated to reflect the latest scholarship.

Exploring cross-gendered encounters in Old Norse myths, this book examines interactions between gods, humans, and otherworldly beings such as giants and monsters. It delves into various motifs, including prophetic consultations and sexual relationships, while investigating their pre-Christian roots and adaptations by medieval poets. The analysis suggests that these narratives persisted in Christian society, offering non-dogmatic solutions to social and psychological challenges like maturation, succession, and loss.