CAROLYNE LARRINGTON

Game of Thrones is a phenomenon. As Carolyne Larrington reveals in this essential companion to George R R Martin''s fantasy novels and the HBO mega-hit series based on them the show is the epitome of water-cooler TV. It is the subject of intense debate in national newspapers; by PhD students asking why Westeros has yet to see an industrial revolution, or whether astronomy explains the continent''s climatic problems and unpredictable solstices (''winter is coming''); and by bloggers and cultural commentators contesting the series'' startling portrayals of power, sex and gender. Yet no book has divulged how George R R Martin constructed his remarkable universe out of the Middle Ages. Discussing novels and TV series alike, Larrington explores among other topics: sigils, giants, dragons and direwolves in medieval texts; ravens, old gods and the Weirwood in Norse myth; and a gothic, exotic orient in the eastern continent, Essos. From the White Walkers to the Red Woman, from Casterley Rock to the Shivering Sea, this is an indispensable guide to the twenty-first century''s most important fantasy creation.

A fresh look at the stories at the heart of Norse mythology, exploring their cultural impact right up to the present day.The heroes and villains of Norse mythology have endured for centuries, infiltrating art, opera, film, television and books, shape-shifting like the trickster Loki to suit the cultures that encountered them. Through careful analysis of the literature and archaeology of the Norse world, Carolyne Larrington takes us deep into the realm described in the Icelandic sagas, from the gloomy halls of Hel to the dazzling heights of Asgard. She expertly examines the myths many modern-day reimaginings, revealing the guises that have been worn by the figures of Norse myth, including Marvels muscled, golden-haired Thor and George R.R Martins White Walkers, who march inexorably southwards, bringing their eternal winter with them.

Illustrated with over 40 art pieces from the British Library s collections An authoritative guide written by a leading scholar in medieval literature and mythology

“Este libro es lo que ocurre cuando una investigadora en literatura y cultura medieval ve la serie de HBO Juego de Tronos y lee la saga de novelas de George R. R. Martin Canción de hielo y fuego.” Co