"The Prose Edda," written by the Icelandic poet and politician Snorri Sturluson in the early 13th century, is a cornerstone of Old Norse literature. This text serves as a comprehensive guide to Norse mythology and poetics, providing a rich tapestry of lore that a Skald (poet) of the time would need to know. The Prose Edda includes consistent narratives of many Norse mythological plot lines, offering a quasi-historical backstory for the Norse gods. Despite being a Christian, Snorri treated the ancient Pagan mythology with great respect, making this work a valuable resource for understanding the mythological and legendary events of the Norse tradition.