Drama in East Iceland
Hrafnkell Festival
1/8 2009
Hrafnkelsdalur
Valley is 100 km from Egilsstaðir
and 150 km from Mývatn
   
  
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The Saga of Hrafnkell, set in the East of Iceland, tells of conflict between chieftains and farmers in the 10th century. The main character is Hrafnkell Freysgoði (who worshipped the Norse god Freyr), a powerful chieftain who lived at Aðalból in Hrafnkelsdalur. When Hrafnkell kills one of his shepherds for daring to ride his stallion Freyfaxi, a fine steed which he shares with the god Freyr, it sparks a chain of events that lead to Hrafnkell’s defeat and humiliation. But, learning from his experience, he regains his former power and status, takes revenge upon his enemies, and rules more peacefully than before. The Saga of Hrafnkell takes place mainly in Hrafnkelsdalur, Fljótsdalsheiði and Fljótsdalur. Archaeological excavations have been made in the saga's area. In Hrafnkelsdalur information signs are being installed at various saga sites, including e.g. the burial mound of Hrafnkell, a short distance from the present farmhouse at Aðalból. A ten-kilometre walking route has also been marked out, from Hálsendi near Brú to Aðalból. Tourist services are provided at Aðalból, where further information is available on the sites of the Saga of Hrafnkell. |
