Podcast Summary: The History of Literature Episode: 716 Icelandic Folk Legends (with Dagrun Osk Jonsdottir) | John le Carre at the Bodleian
Host: Jack Wilson
Guest: Dagrun Osk Jonsdottir
Release Date: July 14, 2025

Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of The History of Literature, host Jack Wilson embarks on a journey from Oxford to Iceland, exploring the rich tapestry of Icelandic folk legends. Joined by folklorist Dagrun Osk Jonsdottir, the discussion delves into the intricate world of ghosts, trolls, and hidden people, shedding light on their significance in both historical and contemporary contexts.

Promoting the Literature Tour

[00:09 – 03:05]
Jack initiates the episode by promoting an upcoming literary tour to England scheduled for May 2026. He highlights the experience beyond mere sightseeing, emphasizing immersive discussions with fellow literature enthusiasts and special guests.
Notable Quote:
"This isn't a trip where you march from site to site checking off boxes. Seen it, seen it, seen it."
— Jack Wilson at [00:09]

Overview of the Episode’s Focus

[02:07 – 02:42]
Jack transitions into the episode's main content, introducing the focus on the Bodleian Library's new exhibition dedicated to John le Carre. He shares insights into le Carre's life, his connection to espionage, and how his real-life experiences influenced his literary works.
Notable Quote:
"Le Carre was a writer who once worked as a spy... deceptive was part of his upbringing."
— Jack Wilson at [02:07]

Exploring Icelandic Folk Legends

[02:42 – 14:10]
Jack sets the stage for the discussion by highlighting Iceland's unique landscape and its influence on folklore. He introduces Dagrun Osk Jonsdottir, a renowned folklorist, who specializes in Icelandic folk legends.
Notable Quote:
"What exactly are the hidden people? How do they interact with humans? Where are the trolls?"
— Jack Wilson at [22:00]

Historical Collection of Icelandic Folk Tales

[14:09 – 19:06]
Dagrun discusses the origins of Icelandic folk legends, noting that most were collected in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily by Jon Arneson and his contemporaries. She compares Arneson's efforts to the Brothers Grimm, emphasizing the role of priests in gathering these stories.
Notable Quote:
"Jon Arnesson... was inspired by the Brothers Grimm... he knew a lot of priests all over Iceland that would help him collect these stories."
— Dagrun Osk Jonsdottir at [15:52]

Cultural Significance and Modern Relevance

[19:30 – 25:03]
Dagrun elaborates on the enduring importance of these legends in Icelandic culture. She explains how these stories are integrated into education, media, and everyday life, reinforcing cultural identity and values.
Notable Quote:
"They are very embedded into the culture, I would say."
— Dagrun Osk Jonsdottir at [19:30]

Nature and Characteristics of Trolls and Hidden People

[34:46 – 37:57]
The conversation shifts to the specific beings within Icelandic folklore. Dagrun describes trolls as large, nature-bound creatures that despise Christianity and turn to stone when exposed to sunlight. In contrast, hidden people or elves are akin to humans, embodying Christian values and often assisting humans in various endeavors.
Notable Quote:
"Trolls... cannot stand the sound of church bells and hate priests... they immediately turn into stone."
— Dagrun Osk Jonsdottir at [36:23]
And:
"Hidden people... they are Christian. Very big rocks are often said to be the churches of the hidden people."
— Dagrun Osk Jonsdottir at [37:57]

Interactions Between Humans and the Supernatural

[26:40 – 31:58]
Dagrun shares a poignant family ghost story from her book, illustrating the deep-seated beliefs in supernatural entities and their interactions with humans. She explains how these legends often serve as moral lessons and reflections of societal values.
Notable Quote:
"The ghost... follows the family for nine generations or 300 years, whichever comes first."
— Dagrun Osk Jonsdottir at [30:04]

Impact of Christianity on Folk Legends

[53:37 – 58:19]
The discussion delves into the intricate relationship between Christianity and pagan beliefs in Icelandic folklore. Dagrun highlights how Christian values coexist with traditional legends, often blending seamlessly to offer comfort and moral guidance.
Notable Quote:
"Icelanders never really had a problem with mixing all those things together somehow."
— Dagrun Osk Jonsdottir at [57:27]

Evolving Beliefs and Modern Perceptions

[44:07 – 52:05]
Dagrun presents survey data indicating a decline in the belief in hidden people over the decades, while a significant portion of the population remains uncertain. She discusses how modernization and urbanization have influenced the perception and relevance of these legends today.
Notable Quote:
"Most of the people always say that they are uncertain... they still wouldn't risk it."
— Dagrun Osk Jonsdottir at [52:05]

Conclusion and Reflections

[58:35 – 58:51]
As the episode wraps up, Jack and Emma express their gratitude to Dagrun for her insightful contributions. They hint at future discussions exploring various literary works and authors, maintaining the podcast's engaging and educational tone.

Key Takeaways

• Historical Preservation: The collection and preservation of Icelandic folk legends were significantly influenced by figures like Jon Arneson, drawing parallels to the Brothers Grimm.
• Cultural Integration: These legends remain deeply woven into Icelandic culture, influencing education, media, and societal values.
• Supernatural Beings: Trolls and hidden people play distinct roles in folklore, symbolizing various aspects of human nature and societal norms.
• Christianity’s Role: The seamless blending of Christian values with traditional legends highlights the adaptive nature of Icelandic folklore.
• Modern Relevance: While belief in these legends has diminished, their cultural significance endures, adapting to contemporary contexts and societal changes.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• "This isn't a trip where you march from site to site checking off boxes. Seen it, seen it, seen it."
  — Jack Wilson at [00:09]

• "Le Carre was a writer who once worked as a spy... deceptive was part of his upbringing."
  — Jack Wilson at [02:07]

• "That is what is interesting to a folklorist, not necessarily only preserving the old stories, but watching how new stories are being told and how old stories are changing."
  — Dagrun Osk Jonsdottir at [47:26]

• "Icelanders never really had a problem with mixing all those things together somehow."
  — Dagrun Osk Jonsdottir at [57:27]

Final Thoughts

This episode offers a captivating exploration of Icelandic folk legends, highlighting their historical roots, cultural significance, and evolving perceptions in modern society. Through the expertise of Dagrun Osk Jonsdottir, listeners gain a deeper understanding of how these timeless stories continue to shape and reflect Icelandic identity.

For more insights and to join future literary adventures, visit historyofliterature.com or follow the podcast on Facebook.