The remaking of Galdraskræða by Arnar Fells
The
history of magic spells in Iceland is very old and highly influences
the native population. Sources of spells go back to the middle ages in
old Norse sagas, which are a unique part of Icelandic heritage. In
ancient times, the magic spells were as vital to Icelanders as food is
to the body. They existed in every aspect of life and came as second
nature to man, through his desires and fears. An individual’s longing to
understand and control his destiny, as well as the power of nature, is
reflected in the spells.Galdraskræða Skugga was first
published in the year 1940. The book is a collection of the old
Icelandic spells, the first one ever published in Iceland. It is written
by the author Jochum M. Eggertson who is better known under his pen
name “Skuggi”, meaning “shadow”. Galdraskræða, which was illustrated and
handwritten by the author himself, was originally only published in a
limited edition of 150 numbered copies. It is a collection of nearly 200
spells and an ensemble of magic rune letters. Galdraskræða Skugga was
nowhere to be found for about 40 years until Bókvarðan published it
without a formal publishing permit in the year 1982. That edition was
very soon taken off the market. Galdraskræða Skugga is now published
with permission for the first time since the first edition.Respect
to the original work of Skuggi was crucial in the reproduction of the
book. The graphic design was simplified and the representation was made
more clear. The imagery is expressed in red color, which is symbolic of
the ancient ritual of using blood in the making of letters while casting
a spell. The use of blood was necessary to carry the individual’s
intent of the spell, as well as enhancing the outcome of the spell.– Arnar Fells Gunnarsson
The book can be bought online here. I am eagerly awaiting the English version that is soon to be available!