Heimskringla

The Chronicle of The Kings of Norway

by Snorri Sturlson | c.1179-1241 | 320,198 words

The "Heimskringla" of Snorri Sturlason is a collection of sagas concerning the various rulers of Norway, from about A.D. 850 to the year A.D. 1177....

Part 68 - Meeting Of Olaf And Sigrid

Early in spring (A.D. 998) King Olaf went eastwards to Konungahella to the meeting with Queen Sigrid; and when they met the business was considered about which the winter before they had held communication, namely, their marriage; and the business seemed likely to be concluded.

But when Olaf insisted that Sigrid should let herself be baptized, she answered thus: —

"I must not part from the faith which I have held, and my forefathers before me; and, on the other hand, I shall make no objection to your believing in the god that pleases you best."

Then King Olaf was enraged, and answered in a passion,

"Why should I care to have thee, an old faded woman, and a heathen jade?"

and therewith struck her in the face with his glove which he held in his hands, rose up, and they parted. Sigrid said,

"This may some day be thy death."

The king set off to Viken, the queen to Svithjod.

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