'Ash Lad' illustrated by Theodor Kittelsen

Askeladden and the Troll

Askeladden (Norwegian 'The Ash Lad') is the main character
in many Norwegian folktales. In some ways, he represents the
small man who succeeds where all others fail. He always wins
in the end, often winning the princess and half the kingdom.

many folk tales, the Ash Lad is portrayed as the youngest
of three brothers. Early in a typical tale, the older brothers appear
to have much greater chances of success in life. For example, one brother
might be extremely well read in books and newspapers. Another brother
might be extremely competent in another area. In contrast, the Ash Lad
is looked down upon as a seemingly drowsy ne'er do well, perhaps even
as a loner or misunderstood eccentric, who spends too much time
sitting by the fireplace lost in thought as he is poking the ashes.

As the typical story unfolds, the oldest brothers try first to
heroically overcome some major crisis or problem. As an example,
one tale involves rescuing a princess held captive in a land East of the Sun
and West of the Moon. The two older brothers, who are tied to conventional
thinking, typically fall flat on their faces. In contrast, it is the Ash Lad
who comes up with creative solutions. He is smarter, more tactical,
more receptive and more aware of the needs of others. He outwits
trolls, dodges charging unicorns or gets a magic Viking ship to
transport him where he ultimately saves the princess

Read more about Askeladden here


Askeladden postcards, 1910
National Library of Norway