The Bridal Wreath by Sigrid Undsest
Book Review
It takes a bit of work to begin the first book of Undset’s masterpiece, Kristin Lavransdatter, which won the Nobel prize for literature in 1928. Undset’s copious research is evident on every page, a tribute to her archaeologist father. The diction is true to its setting in medieval Norway, and detailed footnotes help to acquaint the reader with the meaning of some of the more obscure references. A chapter or two later, you’ll be fluent in medieval patter, and eager for the pages to keep turning.
The Bridal Wreath tells the story of young Kristin growing up in the home of a religiously serious father, Lavrans Bjorgulfson, on the estate, Jorundgaard. Her mother, Ragnfrid, is described as “heavy of mood.” Early in the book, Kristin is tempted by an “elf-maiden” to don a circlet of golden flowers while gazing upon her beauty in a local pond. This foreshadows the ending, when Kristin dons the bridal crown and gazes into a barrel of water to admire herself.
Originally promised to a suitor chosen for his strategic ownership of neighboring farmland, Kristin convinces her father to allow her to marry her heart’s choice, Erlend Nikulausson. The details of their meeting, their trysts and their final engagement illuminate the details of medieval life in a way that challenges your appraisal of your own relationships. It’s impossible not to be swept away by the epic insights of Undset’s pen.
A new translation of the full trilogy Kristin Lavransdatter by Tiina Nunnally was released last year by Penguin Classics. It’s an easier read, with a lilt to the language. For myself, I love the obscure words in my 1951 Knopf edition. It reinforces the sense that one has tiptoed back in time to view a lost world. (Some libraries may have Nunnally’s 1997 translation of The Bridal Wreath alone.)
Discussion Questions:
1. Fru (Lady) Aashild, the “witch-wife” becomes a mentor of sorts to Kristin. Although Kristin learns many useful things from the lady, her young heart also learns to chafe at the limits of her country home. The villagers fear Lady Aashild’s wisdom. Is there a relationship between superstition and social norms? Should there be?
2. Erlend shows a bumbling indifference and even contempt at times for the holy things of God, including Kristin’s honor. Meanwhile, Kristin seems naturally drawn to a trusting faith in God’s mercy. How would you describe her attraction to him in terms of her faith?
3. Erlend and Kristin are passionately in love. It affects how Lavrans and Ragnfrid see one another after their daughter’s wedding, prompting surprising honesty. Is passion agood thing in marriage? Why or why not?