Elder Edda Chapter Summary & Analysis - Oddrun's Lament Summary

Oddrun's Lament Summary

The speaker has heard ancient tales of a girl who comes to Mornaland and how no one could help Heidrik's daughter. Atli's sister Oddrun learns of the girl's trouble, bridles a horse, and travels until she comes to a high hall. Upon arriving Oddrun asks what is best known in the land of the Huns and learns that Borgny lies in labor pains. Oddrun then inquires as to which prince is responsible for Borgny's pain. Vilmund has kept the girl in coverlets for five winters to conceal her situation from her father.

Oddrun enters the hall and sings spells for Borgny. A girl and boy are born to Hogni's slayer, Vilmund. Borgny then speaks for the first time. She blesses Oddrun for her help and asks that the gods smile on Oddrun. Oddrun replies that she did not help Borgny because she deserved it but because she had promised to...
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