Literary Groups

Class work in Literary Groups Njal’s Saga

Blog Topics:

1. Vengeance
2. Fame and Glory
3. Friendship
4. Female Power
5. ViolenceExtremely

Interesting Lines:

1. “He was well off for property and handsome to look at, but there was one thing about him: no beard grew on him.” (20)
2. “It will be avenged against him, but the vengeance and the credit will not be ours. It’s likely, in fact, that he will turn too our kin for friendship.” (24)
3. “You have served other better than yourself today-by taking away their thirst.” (30)
4. “You will be tried much more, because many men will envy you.” (32)
5. “And you will often have to defend yourself.” (32)

Essential Questions:

1. During what time period did the events written occur?
2. To what kingdom did Iceland belong to at the time?
3. Why did Gunnar not follow Njal’s advice to not attend the Thing?
4. Why does the saga focus more in Gunnar that Njal at the start?
5. What is the roll of woman during this time in Iceland.