Saga comes to the revelation that she must escape from her clan in Southern Norway or risk being killed by her own brother. Caught in between a girl and young woman, she leaves with nothing in search of salvation. Saga finds protection at Skiringssals farm, but her safety is short lived, forcing her to flee with a merchant ship to Brännö and Ribe. On board she meets, Torleif and Rhani. Sagas Krönika is the tale of trio’s journey amidst trading posts and slave markets in Southern Scandinavia.
Along the way Saga encounters the eagle, Tjatse, and he turns out to be more significant for her life than she suspects. The so-called Queen of Oseberg has a central role in the story, as well as the construction of the Oseberg ship. The story continuous to unfold leading up to the historical burial in Oseberg in 834 A.D.
Sagas Krönika narrates various life stories in a time that was harsh and cruel, but also rich in experiences and encounters. The reader gains a deeper understanding of the sacrificial practices of the time, and their importance to Norse mythology as word of a new threating god begins to emerge. This includes the holy feasts and blessing of Midsummer and Summer Solstice, tainted with the scent of smoke and blood.
Agneta Arnesson-Westerdahl is an Archaeologist and Osteologist with her historical interest rooted in contemporary human beings. Sagas Krönika portrays a powerful story about humanity in a time when women, much like today, could be both highly vulnerable and high ranking. Thus, women of the time were largely viewed as commodities in a strict hierarchical culture, built on the premises of honor and family linage.
The book’s cover art is by, Jordi Arkö.
