The new chapter

Ancient heroes for modern times – how would they fare?

If they were alive today, what roles would the leading characters of the Sagas have in society – the poets, the warriors and Vikings?

We put the question to one of Iceland’s most prominent writers, to a highly respected psychiatrist and a renowned caricaturist. Lively, inventive and amusing, these unique perspectives are definitely worth investigating.

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The Experts

Einar Kárason
Author
A renowned storyteller, Einar Kárason received popular acclaim for his trilogy about life in the post-war ‘barracks’ neighbourhoods of Reykjavík. His trilogy was successfully adapted for the stage and screen and the movie, Djöflaeyjan (Devil's Island), premiered in 1996. Einar is famous also for his biographies, short stories and children’s stories.

Óttar Guðlaugsson
Psychiatrist
An eminent psychiatrist, Dr Óttar Guðmundsson is also a published author, tackling subjects such as the history and ethics of sexuality. Here he explores the likely personality disorders and mental health problems which, when you read between the lines, seemingly beset the leading figures of the ancient Sagas.

Halldór Baldursson
Illustrator
An outstanding caricaturist
and illustrator, Halldór Baldursson has focused mainly on his popular and award-winning satirical cartoons for Icelandic newspapers since 2005. Tackling diverse projects throughout his career, he has illustrated dozens of children’s books.