The Death of Balder

audiobook

The Death of Balder

by Johannes Ewald

EN·~1 hours

Chapters

Description

In this strikingly lyrical tragedy the ancient Norse world comes alive amid the stark pine‑wooded peaks of Norway, where jagged rocks and lingering snow form a haunting backdrop. The story opens with the god‑like brothers Balder and Thor, each armed and poised on distant stones, their dialogue a blend of heroic boasting and deep, resonant poetry. Their voices echo through the mountains, setting a tone that is both grand and intimately human.

Balder is a tormented soul, haunted by unrequited love for the proud Nanna and plagued by doubts about his own strength and destiny. He confides his anguish to Thor, whose thunderous presence offers stern counsel yet reveals a fragile brotherly bond. Their exchange teeters between mythic grandeur and raw vulnerability, promising a compelling exploration of love, honor, and the weight of divine expectation.

Details

Language

en

Duration

~1 hours (84K characters)

Publisher of text edition

Project Gutenberg

Release date

2004-10-27

Rights

Public domain in the USA.

About the author

Johannes Ewald

Johannes Ewald

1743–1781

A major voice in early Danish literature, he brought new emotional intensity to poetry and drama. He is still remembered in Denmark for work that helped shape the country’s literary identity—and for lyrics that became part of a national anthem.

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