'Round the yule-log: Christmas in Norway

Name: 'Round the yule-log: Christmas in Norway
Author: Peter Christen Asbjørnsen

A convalescent young man spends Christmas away from home and is drawn into household gatherings where storytelling recreates regional yuletide customs. Framed by fireside chat and children's requests, the narrator relates a sequence of folktales and legends—feats of a mountain hunter, mischievous brownies, trolls that invade farms at Christmas, and other supernatural episodes—interwoven with descriptions of domestic rituals, seasonal food, and the cozy atmosphere of hearthside company. The collection alternates a framing memoir and individual tales, preserving oral rhythms and folkloric motifs while conveying community beliefs, humour, and the eerie charm of winter traditions.

By Peter Christen Asbjørnsen

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About This Book

About the Author

Peter Christen Asbjørnsen

Peter Christen Asbjørnsen was a Norwegian author and folklorist, renowned for his collection of traditional Norwegian fairy tales and folk stories. Alongside his collaborator Jørgen Moe, he played a pivotal role in preserving and popularizing Norwegian folklore in the 19th century. His notable works include 'East of the Sun and West of the Moon: Old Tales from the North' and 'Tales from the Fjeld: A Second Series of Popular Tales', which showcase the rich narrative traditions of Norway. Asbjørnsen's storytelling is characterized by its blend of fantasy and realism, reflecting the cultural heritage of his homeland.