Page:History of the Literature of the Scandinavian North.djvu/308

The study of antiquities acquired from the beginning of the present century a grand development, partly from the fact that the national feeling was strengthened, and partly in consequence of the enthusiasm which Oehlenschläger's writings had aroused for the ancient times of the North. Among the men whose activity contributed most to advance this science the following are especially to be mentioned: Peter Erasmus Müller (1776-1834), a compiler and editor of antiquarian works. In his "Sagabibliothek" he gives a critical exposition of the whole saga literature. He made a careful examination of the chronicles of Saxo and Snorre, and edited a fine edition of Saxo. The works of the Icelander Finn Magnusson (1781-1846) present the mythology and early history of the North with great learning. He also edited the Elder Edda in the original text and in a Danish translation. Niels Mathias Petersen (1781-1862) did much excellent work in the field of linguistics and the history of literature, and his "Det Danske, norske og svenske Sprogs Historie" and "Bidrag til den danske Literaturs Historie" are works of great merit. He also made faithful and elegant translations of different sagas, and among his historical writings we would call special attention to his "Danmarks Historie i Hedenold." Christian Thomsen (1788-1865) advanced in a very effective and practical manner the study of archæology, and the care which he bestowed on the great collection of antiquities which he superintended can hardly be overestimated. As a writer he was not remarkable, and still it should be remembered that it was his little work, "Ledetraad til nordisk Oldkyndighed," which laid the foundation of a systematic study of northern antiquities. Jens Worsaae, (born 1821) by his numerous and excellent archæological and historical works has contributed much to the eminence which antiquarian studies have attained in a comparatively short time. Among his historical works the most remarkable is "De Danskes Erobring af England og Nor-