42 pages 1 hour read

Sigrid Undset

The Wreath: Kristin Lavransdatter #1

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1920

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In The Wreath by Sigrid Undset, the story follows Kristin Lavransdatter from her youth to her marriage at age 17 to Erlend Nikulausson, a disgraced aristocrat. She struggles with family expectations, societal pressures, and her own rebellious nature while experiencing love, betrayal, and loss. The setting is meticulously researched to authentically represent 14th-century Norway. The book references sexual assault and death by suicide.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Sigrid Undset's The Wreath captivates readers with its rich historical detail and compelling protagonist. Undset's portrayal of medieval Norway is vivid and immersive, though some critics find the pacing slow. The depth of character development and exploration of moral complexities are praised, making it a rewarding read for historical fiction enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Wreath?

Readers who enjoy historical fiction with strong, nuanced characters and rich descriptions of medieval settings will appreciate The Wreath by Sigrid Undset. Fans of Kristin Lavransdatter and readers of Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall or Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth will find this novel compelling.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Scandinavian Literature

Romance

Period

Medieval Literature / Middle Ages

Themes

Values/Ideas: Truth & Lies

Emotions/Behavior: Love

Life/Time: Coming of Age

Topics

History: World