During the early modern era and continuing until the World War II, rapid technological and economic change provoked many thinkers and artists to contemplate the wisdom and speed at which society was evolving. Many felt a yearning for a bi-gone age when the world was shrouded in mystery and myths and heroes filled the gaps in human knowledge that we later filled by scientism and machines.

At this time, a vast reservoir of artistic talent emerged who passionately sought to preserve and sometimes invent what they felt was being lost. In spite of apprehension toward technology, new methods of printing also gave these artists and thinkers new outlets for exploring and sharing their craft through popular publications and magazines.

This art collection, inspired by ancient Norse myths and heroes, features hundreds of the finest pen-and-ink drawings from the so-called Golden Age of illustration. In this edition, the editors have sought to recapture the romance and artistic imagination of the period in this multi-volume series chronicling the rich and varied styles exemplifying the continued impact of ancient myths on modern culture. The compilation also includes an informative and inspiring Introduction by designer and traditional pen-and-ink artist, J.D. Tómasson, tracing the history and development of the medium in its social and political context alongside biographical observances on some of the most prominent illustrators.