Word Pairs and Other Syndetic Constructions in Old Norse Poetry

Germanic languages make frequent use of binary expressions where two elements – often alliterating or rhyming – are joined by a conjunction. We encounter them daily, and new ones continue to emerge, testifying to their lasting appeal. Whether we listen to rock and roll or set off for a weekend getaway at a cosy bed and breakfast to enjoy the hustle and bustle of a new city, these expressions are not only catchy; they also reveal something about our time, the lives we live, and the way we think. The appeal of such expressions is deeply rooted in these languages and their poetic traditions. Phrases such as hjálm ok brynju ‘helmet and byrnie’), gull ok gersímar (‘gold and treasures’), and hringa ok hróðrkvæða (‘rings and poems of praise’) are a hallmark of early alliterative Germanic verse, offering insights into the lives and worldviews of ancient peoples. With a primary focus on the Old Norse tradition, this study explores how skalds wove these constructions into the verses to create haunting sequences and vivid imagery. By examining a corpus of Old Norse poetry, it challenges previous paradigms and offers a unified framework for understanding this phenomenon. Proposing the inclusive term syndetic construction, it shows how these expressions were a highly productive and versatile device, ranging from compact word pairs to more elaborate structures spanning multiple verses. Mastery of their expressive power was a key part of a poet’s craft, shaping some of the most memorable lines in the Old Norse tradition, and providing us with a window into their creative process. This is a doctoral thesis in Scandinavian Languages at Stockholm University, Sweden 2025