ABSTRACT
EARLIER I described the obelisks of the heathen, of kings, champions, and giants, by means of which they thought their eminent feats were accorded the highest reputation for all succeeding generations 1 . In such a way Saxo of Sjaelland recalls of his Ragnar, the Danish king, that, after fighting a five years’ war in the North against the Muscovites and Russians, he left a record of his achievements carved on high rocks, so that what he had accomplished for the splendour of his fame amid such straits and hardships might not vanish into oblivion. 2 So is it also with many kings and heroes among the Gotar and Swedes, the greatness of whose deeds can still be distinguished in the most lofty situations throughout the northern regions. Those among them are considered and judged to have led more celebrated lives who so managed their concern for glory in war that they were seen to have advanced the common good of all their people. 3 Such were King Ubbi, founder of the ancient city of Uppsala, Scarinus, Erik, and several others. 4 Their imperishable memory is not only to be viewed inscribed on rocks in the plains and on the mountains, but is perpetuated in songs handed down from father to son, by musical instruments, and by traditional dances at places and on days of greater festivity. 5 For it was a strong concern of these illustrious men, when all was at peace, that the governors of provinces (apart from their supervision of weapon-training), aided by the services of the local inhabitants, should be charged with the task of bringing streams of water, where they tumbled headlong down, to drive mills, or of building fountains for the common benefit wherever they were needed. 6
Saxo Ragnar, the Danish king
Kings of the Gotar are celebrated for distinguished deeds
The kings Ubbi, Scarinus, and Erik
Record is retained in traditional songs
