The Valkyries

The Valkyries by E.F. Benson (1908)

The Valkyries, by E.F. Benson, is a novel that explores the themes of death, violence, and the supernatural. The story follows a group of Viking warriors who are chosen by the Valkyries to fight in a great battle. The narrative is written in a descriptive and atmospheric style, with a focus on the sensory details of the battlefield and the emotions of the characters. The novel is known for its dark and intense tone, as well as its exploration of themes such as masculinity, honor, and the nature of heroism. The Valkyries is considered a classic of the horror genre and has been influential in shaping the subgenre of Viking horror. In terms of literary devices, the novel makes use of imagery, symbolism, and foreshadowing to create a sense of tension and unease. The author also employs a non-linear narrative structure, jumping back and forth in time to build suspense and add complexity to the story. Overall, The Valkyries is a thought-provoking and unsettling read that explores the darker aspects of human nature and the supernatural.

By E.F. Benson · First published 1908 · Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Romance · 10 chapters · 36,392 words

First lines

Never before in the memory of man had spring been so late in coming, and into mid-May had lasted the hurricanes and tempests of winter. Not even yet was the armoury of its storms and squalls wholly spent, and men, as they huddled by the fire and heard night by night, and day by day the bugling of the wind, and the hiss of rain and the patter of the hailstones, wondered what this subversion and stay of the wholesome seasons should portend. For now for many years had strange omens and forebodings shadowed and oppressed the earth. Some said that the earth itself and Erda the spirit of earth were growing old; some even had seen the great mother, not as of old she had appeared from time to time, vigorous and young, clad in the fresh green of growing things, but old and heavy-eyed, and her mantle was frosted over with rime, for the chill of the unremitting years had fallen on her.

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fantasy · mythology · adventure · female warriors · Nordic culture · spirituality · self-discovery · journey · sacrifice · courage · friendship · conflict

Contents

More by E.F. Benson