Olav Audunssøn

In the third volume of Olav Audunssøn, Olav embarks on a journey of self-discovery amid political turmoil and personal loss.

The third volume of the acclaimed series by Nobel Prize-winning author Sigrid Undset, Olav Audunssøn delves into the tumultuous life of its titular character during the early fourteenth century in Norway. This period is marked by political instability, with internal conflicts and external threats from neighboring countries like Sweden and Denmark. The narrative centers on the tragic love story between Olav and his foster sister, which ignites a chain of events filled with betrayal, murder, and disgrace that reverberates through generations.

In Olav Audunssøn, the protagonist, Olav, is reeling from personal loss and growing estrangement from his son. Seeking solace, he departs from his home in Hestviken to serve on a merchant ship bound for London. This journey becomes more than a mere escape; it transforms into a profound exploration of his inner self. As Olav navigates through themes of love, guilt, sin, and redemption, he is compelled to confront the consequences of his past choices and the path that lies ahead.

With a rich backdrop of medieval life, Olav Audunssøn paints a vivid picture of a world where loyalty, bloodlines, and religious authority dictate the course of human lives. Undset's meticulous research into historical and legal documents lends authenticity to the narrative, while translator Tiina Nunnally captures the lyrical quality of Undset’s prose, bringing to life the emotional and cultural complexities of the era. This volume is a poignant continuation of Olav's saga, resonating with themes of grief and the quest for forgiveness.