History of Iceland

A Captivating Guide to the History of the Land of Fire and Ice, from the Viking Age to the Present

De: Captivating History

Narrado por: Jason Zenobia

Did you know that Iceland was likely initially settled by Irish monks?

Iceland, the land of fire and ice, has a storied history. After the Norse discovered Iceland, they began to settle it, allying the island nation with Norway. However, as power shifted in Scandinavia, Iceland would come to be governed by Denmark for several centuries.

For much of Iceland’s history, it practiced a subsistence society. The people were dependent on fishing and farming to survive, and because of their isolation, they did not advance at the same rate as the rest of Europe. In addition, they were often subject to forces beyond their control. The often-violent environment not only shaped their daily lives, but also created many of the struggles they faced. Although the Icelanders were isolated, they were impacted by the events in Europe, especially those in the Scandinavian nations.

It took centuries, but the Icelanders were able to become a sovereign nation, doing so in 1944. Thanks to the Icelanders’ connection to their past, they have maintained their rich literary tradition and have developed a distinct national identity.

Iceland is often mentioned in history books, but how much do you actually know about it? In this audiobook, you will learn all about the history of Iceland, from the settlement period to the 20th century.

Here is just a snippet of what you will find inside:

• The Old Covenant with Norway and what that meant for Iceland.
• The development of the Althing, which is the oldest existing legislature in the world today.
• The conversion from paganism to Christianity.
• The spread of literacy and Iceland’s rich history of literature.
• The role of fish in Iceland’s history and economy.
• Iceland’s struggle for independence.

©2022 Captivating History (P)2022 Captivating History

Great story telling

Great book on Iceland. Week done and entertaining. Really developed my understanding of the unique place!

Excellent introduction to the topic. Traveling to Iceland in Nov this year. This made me want to learn more.

No comment at this time. Can’t skip this field. Making me type stuff…and stuff and stuff

Informative and interesting

Read this to learn more about Iceland’s history prior to a trip there and it was a very interesting and informative read. Recommend for anyone interested in a snapshot of Iceland’s history

Learn about the little known history of your favorite island nation

This is a great little book. I’m an American who loves Iceland for all of its fine character, pride, and fierce independence. The book also reinforces the facts about Icelandic history that I thought I knew, specifically the arc of occupation by the Vikings, the Scandinavians, and the English.

These people have a powerful bond with Denmark, but not so powerful that they wouldn’t consider booting them off the island if need be.

While most of the west takes the melting pot concept to heard, the Icelanders take the opposite position.

And that includes not only people, but their legendary horses, their food, and even their language, in which they refuse to allow new words to be imported from any culture or national.

Instead, a governmental department takes up the responsibility to craft a new Icelandic word, usually based in the old Norse language. This is partly why you do not see many signs or businesses with English as the default language, nor do you find directional signage on roads distilled down to a universal character or word. This also makes it tough to “pick up a little” Icelandic the way you might pick up a few useful phrases in French or Italian while on holiday.

For instance, no one is trying to introduce a tourist-friendly new name for the adorable village of Kirkjubaejarklauster, set in the beautiful Dyngjufjoll mountains, and just down the road from the towns of Fagurholsmyri and Kalfafellsstadur. See what I mean?

But if you can appreciate learning more about how some really terrific people have set up a nation that protects its culture, appreciates the arts, and just plain works, you might enjoy this book

Rather pedestrian

The history of Iceland could be exciting. Discovery of a new world, frontier life, blood feuds, triumph of democracy. Little of this comes through in this book; it’s mostly dry facts and plodding pace. Some of the supposed facts don’t sound right, either. For example, it’s stated that a devastating volcanic eruption in 1783 covered 1900 square feet with lava. This is trivial. The actual amount of lava is reported by other sources as 18 billion cubic yards! I also noticed grammatical errors which would grate any English professor.

Overall, a disappointment.