Scandinavian Fairy Tales, Folk Tales and Fables

Read Scandinavian fairy tales from famous authors like Hans Christian Andersen. Browse full list of Scandinavian fairy tales.

About: Scandinavian folklore includes tales from Norway, Sweden and Denmark, as well as, to some extent, Iceland and the Faroe Islands. These lands all share a Germanic heritage, and within their folk tales the same races of gods, goddesses, and mythical beings like trolls and giants exist, which bind them together under the banner of Scandinavian folklore as well as Norse Mythology.

Revered Swedish military commander, Gustavus Adolphus did more than establish the country’s military supremacy and power. In the 1630s, he requested priests go out and collect the local folklore in their region. Customs, beliefs and traditions came flooding in and thus much of Scandinavian folklore was preserved thanks to their efforts and Adolphus’ astute request. Scandinavian folklore became the preferred method for introducing new, Christian beliefs in an otherwise pagan land. Folk tales began to take on a new flavor as early as the 11th century, as trolls became scared of church bells and only people of strong faith could defeat dragons and sea monsters.

Within the stories of Hans Christian Andersen are found the most depth of morals and Christian values, yet with no end of the extraordinary and magical. His children’s stories and fairy tales are anchored in Christian piety and belief in goodness, purity and steadfastness.