Icelandic insular romance: replication, reflection, and networks of narrative and meaning

Thesis

Critical study of Icelandic insular romances has been limited due to assumptions of poor literary quality and a lack of editions. This thesis constructs a corpus of Icelandic insular riddarasögur from thirty-four texts and explores the ways in which meaning is interwoven into their seemingly simple narratives through widespread repetitions and connections. The study introduces the concepts of “replication” (overt linking of two distinct elements) and “reflection” (the implications of such a comparison). Examples include lexical repetitions, recognisable narrative structures such as tripartite episodes, and broader semiotic features such as names and intertextual references. The aim of this thesis is threefold: to accumulate evidence in support of these conceptual networks; to explain and explore the effects these techniques have across the selected texts; and to interact with existing discussions about medieval Icelandic literature.

The first chapter focuses on a subgenre of romances, maiden-king narratives, to establish the basic principles of replication and reflection, while also considering the influence of exemplary literature. The second chapter uses the models of Continental romance to assess the presentation of knightly characters and demonstrates how replication and reflection can convey the value judgements of a particular composer or redactor. The third chapter contrasts this knightly world with a pool of broadly “Germanic” or “legendary” inherited material, showing how the composers engage in textual debates regarding the significance of Icelandic and Scandinavian heritage. The final chapter considers religious influences upon the romances, and how the narrative structures explored in the previous chapters can be augmented or subverted for spiritual purposes.

This thesis provides groundwork for further work on the genre. The study provides readings of specific texts, carefully situated within detailed analysis of their language and structures, and also introduces methodology and terminology for broader use.

Authors: Strawbridge, J

• DOI: 10.5287/ora-bm0eo29kj
• Type of award: DPhil
• Level of award: Doctoral
• Awarding institution: University of Oxford
• Language: English
• Keywords: riddarasögur; Icelandic literature; narrative studies; medieval romance
• Subjects: Medieval Literature