Famous Icelander Writers

Halldór Kiljan Laxness was an Icelandic writer renowned for his diverse literary works, including novels, poetry, essays, plays, and short stories. Influenced by prominent figures such as August Strindberg, Sigmund Freud, Knut Hamsun, Sinclair Lewis, Upton Sinclair, Bertolt Brecht, and Ernest Hemingway, Laxness crafted a unique and impactful writing style. His contributions to literature earned him the prestigious Nobel Prize in Literature in 1955. Throughout his professional life, Laxness continuously explored varied genres and themes, leaving a lasting legacy in Icelandic and international literary circles.

Egil Skallagrímsson was a Viking Age figure known for his roles as a war poet, sorcerer, berserker, and farmer. He is portrayed as an anti-hero in Egil's Saga, which covers a period from around 850 to 1000 AD. Egil's professional life revolved around his multiple talents and occupations, showcasing his prowess in poetry, his mystical abilities as a sorcerer, his fierceness as a berserker, and his involvement in farming activities. His character in the saga reflects a complex and multifaceted individual deeply embedded in the Viking Age society.

Birgitta Jónsdóttir is an Icelandic politician, anarchist, poet, and activist. She served as a Member of the Althing (MP) for the Southwest Constituency from 2013 to 2017, representing the Pirate Party. Prior to this, she was an MP for Reykjavík Constituency South from 2009 to 2013. Birgitta has a background in poetry and web development. She has been involved in various activist roles, including working with WikiLeaks and founding the International Modern Media Institute. She co-founded the Icelandic Pirate Party and served as its Chairman from 2014 to 2015.

Arnaldur Indriðason is an Icelandic writer acclaimed for his crime fiction works. He is best known for his series centered around the character Detective Erlendur, which has garnered significant popularity among readers. Indriðason's writing style is characterized by its engaging storytelling and intricate plots, which often delve into the complexities of human nature and society. Throughout his career, he has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the genre of crime fiction, solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in the literary world.

Sjón is an Icelandic poet, novelist, lyricist, and screenwriter known for his collaborations with singer Björk and his performances with The Sugarcubes as Johnny Triumph. His works, which encompass a wide range of genres and mediums, have been translated into 30 languages, showcasing his international appeal and acclaim. Sjón's creative output is characterized by a unique and imaginative approach, demonstrating his versatility and skill across various artistic disciplines. He continues to be a prominent figure in the Icelandic cultural scene, captivating audiences worldwide with his storytelling prowess.

Magnús Scheving is a versatile Icelandic professional with a diverse career. He is a writer, television producer, actor, entrepreneur, and former athlete. He is best known as the creator, director, and star of the popular children's television show LazyTown, where he played the character Sportacus. Through his work on LazyTown, Magnús has made a significant impact in the entertainment industry, particularly in the realm of children's television programming. His creativity and talent have garnered him widespread recognition and success in his professional endeavors.

Thordis Elva Thorvaldsdottir is an Icelandic author, speaker, playwright, and activist known for her work in gender equality. She gained global recognition for her book "South of Forgiveness" in 2017. Thordis was named Woman of the Year in 2015 by the Federation of Icelandic Women's Societies in Reykjavik. She specializes in violence prevention and digital rights, contributing to national policies on online abuse and gender-based violence. Thordis is dedicated to advocating for a more equitable and safer society through her professional endeavors.

Yrsa Sigurðardóttir is an Icelandic writer known for her crime novels and children's fiction. She began her writing career in 1998 and gained recognition with her debut crime novel translated into English by Bernard Scudder. Her crime novels typically feature Thóra Gudmundsdóttir, a lawyer, as the central character. In addition to her crime novels, Yrsa has also won the 2003 Icelandic Children's Book Prize for her work in children's fiction. Alongside her writing, she has a professional career as a civil engineer.

Jónína Leósdóttir is an accomplished Icelandic novelist, playwright, and former journalist. She has written a diverse body of work, including plays, novels, biographies, and articles. Her writings have been translated into multiple languages, showcasing her international impact. Leósdóttir's career highlights include her marriage to former Icelandic Prime Minister Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir, making history as one of the first same-sex couples in Iceland to wed. With a background in English and Literature, she has also shared her expertise through academic work at the University of Essex.

Hallgrímur Pétursson was a prominent Icelandic poet and minister during the Age of Orthodoxy. Known for his influential contributions to Lutheran hymnody, he is sometimes referred to as the Icelandic Paul Gerhardt. He served as a minister at Hvalsneskirkja and Saurbær in Hvalfjörður, displaying skillful preaching abilities despite initial doubts. His most notable work, Passion Hymns, is a collection of fifty hymns for Lent. Hallgrímur's professional life also includes works such as Aldarháttur, Rímur af Lykla-Pétri og Magellónu, and Króka-Refs rímur.

Jónas Hallgrímsson was an Icelandic poet, writer, and naturalist known for his contributions to Icelandic literature and nationalism. He co-founded the influential journal Fjölnir in 1835 to promote Icelandic nationalism and independence. Through his poetry, Jónas celebrated Iceland and its people, becoming one of the country's most beloved poets. His work continues to be celebrated, and his birthday is officially recognized in Iceland as the Day of the Icelandic Language. The Jónas Hallgrímsson Award is given annually to individuals for their exceptional contributions to the Icelandic language.

Gunnar Gunnarsson was an Icelandic author who primarily wrote in Danish. He gained popularity during the first half of the 20th century, becoming a well-known novelist in Denmark and Germany. He is renowned for writing the novel Af Borgslægtens Historie, which was later translated into English as Guest the One-Eyed and adapted into a movie. Another notable work by Gunnarsson is the autobiographical novel The Church on the Mountain. He is considered one of the most significant Icelandic writers of his time.

Matthías Jochumsson was an Icelandic Lutheran clergyman, poet, playwright, and translator. He served as a pastor in various locations in Iceland, worked as a newspaper editor and schoolteacher, and made trips to the continent to further his education. Initially intending to enter the business world, he discovered his passion for languages and literature. Matthías was known for his lyrical poetry, hymns, and translations, particularly from English and Scandinavian languages. His play "Skugga-Sveinn" is considered Iceland's first successful performed play, and he is best known for writing the Icelandic national anthem, "Lofsöngur."

Hannes Hafstein was an Icelandic politician and poet who made history by becoming the first Icelander appointed to the Danish Cabinet in 1904. He served as the minister for Iceland in the Cabinet of Deuntzer, where he was accountable to the Icelandic Althing. Hafstein's tenure marked a significant shift in the governance of Iceland, as he took on responsibilities that were previously held by non-Icelanders. His political career was characterized by a commitment to representing Icelandic interests at the highest levels of government.

Andri Snær Magnason is an accomplished Icelandic writer, director, and producer known for his diverse literary works spanning novels, poetry, plays, and essays. His impactful documentaries have premiered at prestigious film festivals. With recognition from the Icelandic Literary Prize across various categories, Andri's critical acclaim extends internationally with publications and performances in over 40 countries. His thought-provoking book "On Time and Water" delves into climate change through innovative storytelling, reflecting his commitment to environmental advocacy as seen in his poignant obituary for Ok-glacier. Additionally, Andri's engagement in the 2016 Icelandic presidential election showcases his multifaceted professional pursuits.

Jóhannes úr Kötlum was a prominent Icelandic author, poet, and member of parliament known for his beloved verse for children and lyrical proficiency in the Icelandic language. His poems have inspired numerous composers, songwriters, and musicians, leading to the creation of over two hundred songs and compositions based on his work. A leading figure in modern Icelandic poetry, Jóhannes was adept at both traditional and modern forms, often expressing outspoken criticism of political institutions and advocating for peace. He evolved from a neo-romantic poet to a radical voice during the depression era and continued to innovate his poetry post-WWII, emphasizing originality and artistry while opposing foreign occupation.

Einar Benediktsson was an Icelandic poet and lawyer who played a key role in Iceland's nationalistic revival and independence movement. He was active in founding the Landvarnarflokkurinn and served as the editor of Iceland's first daily newspaper, Dagskrá. As a poet, he was considered a Neo-Romantic and advocated for Greenland to become part of an independent Iceland. Einar also promoted inward foreign investment to harness Iceland's natural resources, managing companies involved in building and operating hydroelectric power plants. He made notable translations of English and American poetry and Henrik Ibsen's Peer Gynt into Icelandic.

Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir is a versatile Icelandic professional known for her contributions to the fields of art history, literature, and theater. She holds the esteemed position of a professor of art history, showcasing her expertise in the subject. As a skilled novelist, playwright, and poet, she has garnered critical acclaim for her works, including receiving prestigious awards such as the Nordic Council Literature Prize for "Hotel Silence" and the Médicis Foreign Award for "Miss Iceland." Her artistic talents and literary achievements have solidified her reputation as a prominent figure in the cultural landscape.

Ari Thorgilsson, also known as Ari the Wise, was a prominent medieval chronicler in Iceland. He is recognized for his work as an author, particularly for Íslendingabók, which chronicles the histories of Icelandic families. Ari received a classical education in Haukadalur and was influenced by Latin chronicler traditions. He is believed to have excelled in the Icelandic oral storytelling tradition. Ari later became a Christian priest in Staður. His contributions to Icelandic literature include his authorship of Íslendingabók and his involvement in the writing of Landnámabók.

Stephan G. Stephansson was a Western Icelander poet and farmer, known for his self-education and hard work ethic. Immigrating to the United States at a young age, he later settled in Alberta, Canada, where he wrote prolifically in Icelandic. Influenced by Ralph Waldo Emerson, Stephansson advocated for equal rights for both men and women. His poems, published in the six-volume collection "Andvökur," showcased his literary talent, while his letters and essays further solidified his legacy as one of Iceland's most prominent literary figures. Stephansson's homestead in Alberta is now a Provincial Historic Site, honoring his contributions to literature.

Davíð Stefánsson was a prominent Icelandic poet and novelist, best recognized for his ten volumes of poetry. He spent a significant portion of his professional life as a librarian in Akureyri, Iceland, from 1925 to 1952. Throughout his career, he demonstrated a deep passion for literature, folklore, and his homeland, showcasing his cultural roots and literary expertise. Despite occasional travels abroad, Stefánsson's primary focus remained on his work as a librarian and his contributions to Icelandic literature.

Eggert Ólafsson was an Icelandic explorer, writer, and language conservator known for his efforts to revive Icelandic culture and economy. He dedicated his professional life to exploring and documenting Iceland's natural landscapes and resources, contributing significantly to the understanding of the island's geography and biodiversity. As a writer, he produced works that celebrated Iceland's heritage and traditions, while his efforts as a conservator focused on preserving the Icelandic language and promoting its use in literature and education to strengthen national identity and pride.

Tómas Guðmundsson was a prominent Icelandic writer, renowned as Reykjavík's poet. He delved into literature and poetry from a young age, drawing inspiration from Icelandic sagas and Jónas Hallgrímsson's works. Tómas began crafting his own poetry early on, establishing himself as a skilled wordsmith. Throughout his professional life, he continued to produce impactful literary works, leaving a lasting legacy in Icelandic literature as a celebrated poet and writer.

Þórarinn Eldjárn is an accomplished Icelandic writer known for his humorous poetry books for children. He studied at Lund University and the University of Iceland, and has written numerous poems, stories, and novels. He is also a translator, having translated several books into Icelandic. Þórarinn is particularly recognized for his children's poetry books and his novel "Brotahöfuð," which was nominated for an International Dublin Literary Award. Locally, he is esteemed for his short stories and witty poetry, with his works often showcasing humorous social satire. In 2008, his poetry collection became a best seller.

Einar Hjörleifsson Kvaran was a versatile Icelandic figure known for his contributions to literature and spirituality. As an editor, he played a significant role in shaping the literary landscape of Iceland through his work on various publications. Kvaran's talent as a novelist, poet, and playwright further showcased his creativity and storytelling abilities. His involvement in spiritualism also added a unique dimension to his professional pursuits, highlighting his interest in exploring aspects beyond the tangible world. Overall, Einar Hjörleifsson Kvaran left a lasting impact on Icelandic culture through his diverse professional endeavors.

Katla M. Þorgeirsdóttir is an Icelandic actress, voice actress, and writer. She gained recognition for her portrayal of Laufey in the popular TV series Trapped. With a versatile career, she has demonstrated her talents across various mediums, showcasing her acting abilities on screen and lending her voice to animated characters. Additionally, her work as a writer further highlights her creative skills and passion for storytelling. Katla has established herself as a multifaceted professional in the entertainment industry, leaving a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.

Jóhann Sigurjónsson was an Icelandic playwright and poet who wrote in both Icelandic and Danish. He abandoned his studies in veterinary medicine to pursue literature, drawing inspiration from writers like Georg Brandes and Friedrich Nietzsche. His most famous work, "Fjalla-Eyvindur," achieved success in Germany, Scandinavia, and the United States, later adapted into a film. Another notable piece is the tragedy "Galdra-Loftur," exploring themes of ambition and sorcery. Jóhann's career was cut short by tuberculosis, but his literary legacy endures.

Bólu-Hjálmar was a 19th-century Icelandic farmer and poet known for his mastery of the short Icelandic poetic narrative style known as Rímur. He had little formal education but was an avid reader of sagas and eddas. Despite constantly engaging in disputes with neighbors, he was found innocent of theft accusations. He was an artistic soul with a style marked by economy and clever use of metaphors. Bólu-Hjálmar was critical and sometimes bitter in his poetry, displaying both sharpness and tenderness in his verses.

Edda Björgvinsdóttir is a versatile Icelandic professional known for her work as an actress, comedian, writer, director, and motivational speaker. She gained fame for her roles in the comedy classic Stella í orlofi and the sitcom Heilsubælið í Gervahverfi. Edda is also recognized for her contributions to the annual comedy special Áramótaskaupið, as well as for numerous comedic performances in film, television, and on stage. With a diverse skill set and a strong presence in the entertainment industry, Edda has established herself as a prominent figure in Icelandic entertainment.

Kristmann Guðmundsson was an Icelandic novelist known for his romantic fiction works. He began his professional career as a journalist before transitioning to a career as a writer. During his time in Norway from 1924 to 1937, he honed his craft and expanded his literary repertoire. Upon returning to Reykjavík in 1938, Kristmann focused on producing over thirty books, some of which were written in Norwegian. His contributions to the genre of romantic fiction solidified his reputation as a notable figure in Icelandic literature.

Jón Thorkelsson Vídalín was a prominent bishop in Skálholt, a learned scholar, a renowned preacher, and a leading Latin poet of his time. He pursued his education in Copenhagen, earning a degree in theology. Returning to Iceland, he became a teacher at Skálholt School, then a cathedral priest, and eventually the bishop of Skálholt. Jón was known for his influential work, Vídalínspostillu, a household reading postil containing sermons for various occasions, shaping Icelandic culture, religious life, and literature for centuries.

Jón Thoroddsen elder was an Icelandic poet and novelist known for his significant contributions to Icelandic literature during the 19th century. He gained recognition for his poetic works and novels, which often reflected themes of nature, society, and Icelandic identity. Thoroddsen's writing style was characterized by its vivid imagery and emotional depth, capturing the essence of Icelandic culture and history. His literary achievements solidified his reputation as one of Iceland's most prominent writers, leaving a lasting impact on the country's literary landscape.

Jón Magnússon þumlungur was an Icelandic Lutheran pastor known for his work as an author and clergyman. He is most notably recognized for writing the Píslarsaga, a narrative that details his perceived experiences of suffering due to witchcraft. As a pastor, Jón Magnússon played a crucial role in the spiritual guidance and pastoral care of his community, sharing his religious teachings and personal experiences through his writings. His contributions to Icelandic literature and religious discourse continue to be studied and appreciated by scholars and readers alike.

Guðmundur Kamban was an influential Icelandic playwright and novelist known for his contributions to literature. He gained recognition for his prolific work in both fields, creating notable plays and novels that explored themes of Icelandic society and culture. Kamban's writing style was characterized by its depth, emotional resonance, and keen observation of human behavior. Throughout his career, he received critical acclaim for his unique storytelling and profound insights, establishing himself as a prominent figure in Icelandic literary circles.

Þorsteinn Erlingsson was an Icelandic poet known for his works that critiqued the ruling classes and the church, reflecting his beliefs as an atheist and a socialist. Despite not completing his law studies in Copenhagen, his poems gained popularity in Iceland during his time there. Upon returning to Iceland, he continued to write poetry, with his volume "Þyrnar" being published in 1897. His poetry often touched on themes of nature in a romantic style, showcasing his versatility as a poet.

Steingrímur Thorsteinsson was an Icelandic poet and writer known for his significant contributions to Icelandic literature. He specialized in translating various works of literature into Icelandic, with notable translations including the Arabian Nights and fairy tales by Hans Christian Andersen. Through his translations, he introduced Icelandic audiences to a diverse range of stories and cultural perspectives. His work helped broaden the literary landscape in Iceland and played a crucial role in the preservation and dissemination of important international literary works within the Icelandic community.

Eysteinn Ásgrímsson was a prominent figure in medieval Iceland, known for his diverse talents and contributions. As a monk, he dedicated himself to religious life and spiritual pursuits. In his role as an ecclesiastical inspector, he ensured the proper functioning of church affairs. Eysteinn was also a skilled skald, or poet, with Lilja being one of his most famous works. Through his various roles, he left a lasting impact on Icelandic literature and Christian poetry during his lifetime.

Guðmundur G. Hagalín was an Icelandic writer who began his career as a fisherman before attending secondary school. He later lectured on Iceland in Norway and became a superintendent of public libraries. His best work focused on portraying the simple sturdy seamen and countryfolk of his native region in a refreshingly arch manner. He excelled in capturing the living speech and mode of expression of his characters, particularly in short stories. He also successfully recorded and edited biographies of various individuals based on their first-hand accounts.

Jakob Thorarensen was an Icelandic writer and poet known for his works that focused on the lives of working-class Icelanders and the history of Iceland. His body of work predominantly consisted of poetry, with one of his short stories, Last Words, gaining significant acclaim in his native country. Thorarensen's professional life was dedicated to capturing the essence of Icelandic society through his literary creations, showcasing a deep understanding and appreciation for the struggles and triumphs of the common people.

Bjarni Vigfússon Thorarensen was an Icelandic poet and official who served as deputy governor of northern and eastern Iceland. Influenced by classicism and romanticism, he aligned himself with the Fjölnismenn politically and advocated for the reestablishment of the Althing at Þingvellir. His notable friendship with Jónas Hallgrímsson, who was inspired by Bjarni's work, highlights his impact on the literary community. Sæmundur Hólm played a significant role in shaping Bjarni's writing style. His most famous work, Íslands minni (Eldgamla Ísafold), remains a lasting legacy of his literary contributions.