Edda (The Prose Edda) by Snorri Sturluson Translated Faulkes, Anthony - 1987/92

This is the first complete and literal English translation of the Edda - also referred to as The Prose Edda - which was written by the Icelander Snorri Sturluson about 1220-30. It was primarily intended as a textbook on the traditional poetry of the Vikings, but it also includes the most complete survey extant of the mythology of pagan Scandinavia, and a wealth of skilfully told stories about the heathen gods of the north. Although the author was a Christian, he relates these stories with great detachment, as well as with cultivated humour and irony.