The narrative unfolds in early 11th-century Iceland, centering on a farmer named Thorhall, who struggles with a haunting presence on his sheepwalks. Despite his respectable status and wealth, he faces a dire situation as no shepherd will stay at his farm due to the supernatural disturbances. Seeking help, he consults Skapti, a wise lawgiver, who recommends a strong but dull-witted man named Glámr as a shepherd. Glámr arrives during a fierce winter storm, and despite the ominous reputation of the sheepwalks, he confidently accepts the job. However, his presence brings an unsettling atmosphere to the household, particularly affecting the women, who fear him. On Christmas Eve, Glámr demands meat, disregarding the fasting tradition, and later disappears into the storm, prompting a search that reveals his gruesome death in the snow. After Glámr's body is found, it becomes clear that he has returned as a vengeful spirit, haunting the farm and terrorizing the inhabitants. The disturbances escalate, leading to the death of another servant, and Thorhall decides to abandon the farm for safety. The haunting continues until the arrival of Grettir, a renowned hero, who seeks to confront the specter. Grettir's initial nights at the farm are uneventful, but he remains determined to face Glámr. After a series of ominous events, including the death of Grettir's horse, he resolves to confront the ghost. On the final night, a fierce struggle ensues between Grettir and Glámr, culminating in Grettir's victory as he decapitates the undead creature. However, Glámr's curse lingers, ensuring that Grettir will never again find peace in darkness, forever haunted by the specter of his encounter. The tale concludes with the burning of Glámr's remains, symbolizing the end of his terror, yet leaving Grettir with a lasting burden.
By Sabine Baring-Gould · First published 1866 · Genre: Horror, Fantasy, Adventure