# Snorri Sturluson

## Biography

Snorri Sturluson was a prominent Icelandic historian, poet, and politician, born in 1179 at Hvammur into the powerful Sturlungar clan. From the age of three, he was fostered at Oddi, a significant cultural and intellectual center, which shaped his deep knowledge of Icelandic traditions and a broad outlook. He rose to become a wealthy and influential chieftain, twice elected as lawspeaker of the Althing, Iceland's highest court.

Snorri is best known for his invaluable contributions to Old Norse literature. He authored the Prose Edda, a foundational text for understanding Norse mythology and skaldic poetry, and Heimskringla, a comprehensive history of the Norwegian kings. His works are crucial sources for early medieval Scandinavian history and Norse mythology. His political ambitions, however, led to conflicts with the Norwegian crown, culminating in his assassination in 1241 in Reykholt.

## Books

- [The Elder Eddas of Saemund Sigfusson; and the Younger Eddas of Snorre Sturleson](https://samolit.com/books/96739)
- [The Younger Edda; Also called Snorre's Edda, or The Prose Edda](https://samolit.com/books/96405)