Additional information
by Ian Cumpstey (Author)
The Saga of Didrik of Bern tells the epic story of the legendary King Didrik (also known as Dietrich, Thidrek, or Theoderic).
The early part of the saga tells how the young Didrik assembles a formidable group of warriors, and how they go on a journey to challenge a powerful king. These warriors include Wideke, whose father, Weland the smith, forged his unbeatable sword Mymming, and Heym, who was raised on a stud farm with magnificent black and grey horses. Later, we hear about Didrik's feud with his father's brother Ermentrik, and his long exile at the court of Attilia, King of the Huns.
The saga is driven by human drama, but giants, dwarfs, dragons, and other mythical and magical creatures also appear. Tales of other legendary figures and heroes from northern Europe are interwoven with the story of Didrik: The saga tells about Weland, and the many ways he used his smithing skills, and also tells the story of Sigurd the dragon slayer and the Nyfflings.
The saga was probably first compiled in Norway, and a Swedish version was produced later. Presented here is a translation of the medieval Swedish version of the saga. Also included in this edition is a prose translation of the medieval Danish poem The Dwarf King Laurin, which tells one more story about Didrik of Bern.
