The Danish History

An epic chronicle of Denmark’s mythic past and emerging medieval power, The Danish History by Saxo Grammaticus weaves together legend, saga, and historical record in a sweeping narrative from the earliest kings through to the late 12th century. Drawing on Norse myths, Icelandic tales, and oral tradition, this work preserves lost stories of gods, heroes, and founding dynasties. Readers encounter the myth of Dan and Angul, the origin of Amleth (the prototype for Hamlet), and vivid depictions of battles, marriages, betrayals and heroic quests that shaped the soul of early Scandinavia. More than just mythology, the book is one of the foundational sources for Danish and broader Scandinavian history. It reflects the cultural tensions of its time — pagan past colliding with Christian present, rivalries among kings, and Denmark’s relations with neighbouring powers. Its influence extends beyond medieval scholarship: it inspired later historians and has a lasting legacy in literature (not least for its role in inspiring Shakespeare’s Hamlet). For anyone fascinated by Viking Age sagas, Norse mythology, medieval history or Scandinavian literature, this work offers a powerful, compelling gateway into the world of early Denmark. This translation by Oliver Elton was first published in 1905.