Egils Saga: Traditional evidence for Brnanburh compared to Literary, Historic and Archaeological Analyses

Regarded as the secondary source advocated by some scholars for this battle around Brnanburh in AD 937, Egils Saga Skalla-Grmssonar (collated c. AD 1242-3) becomes problematical when compared with literary, historic and archaeological evidence. Thus, this argument places the saga in a rather awkward position. In addressing the general veracity of this saga, allegedly written by Snorri Sturluson in 1240/1 we must draw a comparison to distinguish reality from fiction. For this article highlights not only the questionable traditions of Egil fighting at Brnanburh but whether Snorris interpretation was motivated by self-interest. More importantly, could other people have gathered together Snorris notes and produced Egils Saga? Doubts arise as to its authenticity as many scholars have previously expressed the differing literary anomalies within the narrative. Was the saga written by more than one person? Was it embellished by Snorri or others? Where did the Brnanburh traditions come from? Is it accurate enough to be used as a historic source a factual reference? The author suggests this approach may identify the incongruities within this saga demonstrating a correct analysis.