Two Words: Primary Source

This is the Penguin Classics edition of two Icelandic sagas concerning the exploration and attempted settlement of the northeastern coast of North America. Rather than an isolated event, the introduction makes clear that knowledge of the existence of these lands and the visits of Icelandic adventurers to them was fairly common knowledge through the 15th century. Why it took Columbus so long to come along and "rediscover" the continent is a fascinating mystery. Good texts with a useful introduction, but perhaps dated in terms of more recent archaeological evidence. 3/03

Graelendinga Saga and Eirik's Saga ( )