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Hélène Adeline Guerber, who also went by H.A. Guerber, was an American author who specialized in creating engaging adaptations of myths, legends, folklore, plays, epic poetry, operas, and historical accounts. In addition to her writing, she worked as a teacher.
My interest in mythology was sparked by Greek mythology, leading me to explore Norse mythology as well. Like most around me I had only been introduced to the more commercially known characters from Norse mythology, Zeus, Thor, Pegasus, etc. Even with my brief knowledge of these characters, they were always depicted in some childlike fashion or palatable for more younger audiences. I had never really looked into their over all lore.
I had come across several stories telling the more original stories, and these were far more mature in nature. As I delved deeper into the more mature and complex original stories I discovered that these stories revolved around themes such as greed, honor, valor, deception, and more. This was far more in my interest.
I was amazed at how far from the depictions that I was used to that the actual characters were. I found the portrayal of gods, titans, and mythical creatures in these stories to be multifaceted, showcasing traits like cruelty, love, compassion, jealousy, and vindictiveness. This to me made a more compelling story. These immersive tales resonated with me, prompting me to seek out complete versions of these narratives.
But like my last introduction to Greek Mythology, these versions that I would come to read were only mere snippets or condensed versions. I would still want to experience these stories in their entirety. Helen Gruber’s Tales of Norse Mythology became a valuable addition to my collection, allowing me to fully experience the richness and depth of these captivating stories in their original form.
"At home let a man be cheerful,
And towards a guest liberal;
Of wise conduct he should be,
Of good memory and ready speech;
If much knowledge he desires,
He must often talk on what is good."
"Thrice pronounc’d, in accents dread,
The thrilling verse that wakes the dead:
Till from out the hollow ground
Slowly breath’d a sullen sound."
"From that great world-fire, purified at last,
To a life far higher, better, nobler than the last."
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