Saga of Harald Fairhair

[1] The saga tells us about Harald's proposal to the princess Gyda Eiriksdatter who refused to marry someone who was king of a small kingdom.

Snorri cites from poet en Þorbjörn Hornklofi's poem Glymdråpa and a little later in the saga from scald Eyvindr skáldaspillir.

Þorbjörn Hornklofi was quoted on this:[5] Hafnaði Holmrýgjum ok Hǫrða meyjum hverri enni heinversku ok Hǫlga ættar konungr enn kynstóri, es tók konu danska.

Snorri tells us that Harald had his hair cut off by Ragnvald, Earl of Moer after 10 years, and he was named Hårfagre (Finehair).

[7] While Heimskringla, the Harald Fairhair saga, is still recognized as some of the best in Old Norse literature from this period as "due primarily to Snorri uniting historical criticism and thinking with ingenious storytelling.

He composes meticulously; prepares and creates excitement, regression and expectation until the decision falls in an intense, dramatic scene.

"[8] The other sources, Ágrip af Nóregskonungasögum and Fagrskinna, are more concise and sober in style, while Snorri elaborates and enlivens the action and people.