Ragnvald was first to try, for Solvi valued daring.
-- Ragnvald (1 )

Importance: This quote illustrates Ragnvald's capacity for bravery and his desire to be recognized by those who have more power or wealth than him. He wants to please Solvi and win his priase and will do anything to receive that. This quote also shows that Solvi does value daring, which readers see again and again throughout the novel.

It must only be strong, not beautiful, and Svanhild had mastered that much
-- Svanhild (2 )

Importance: This quote illustrates that Svanhild does not quite fit into the gender roles assigned to women during that time. She does not spin well and can only make something strong but struggles to make something beautiful, like dresses. This also shows that Svanhild values strength over beauty and that she has mastered an inner strength that will help her throughout the novel.

You must learn how to survive, and how to...
-- Ascrida (4 )