How did Icelandic Romanticism influence 19th-century literature?

Icelandic Romanticism served as the catalyst for a 19th-century literary and linguistic renaissance, shifting the nation's focus from European trends back to its own heritage.1

Influenced by the philosopher Henrik Steffens, Bjarni Thorarensen emerged as the movement's first nationalist poet. By reintroducing simple Eddaic metres and celebrating Iceland’s primitive traditions, isolation, and history of heroism, he successfully redirected the cultural gaze toward the Icelandic past.12

This movement evolved through the work of the Fjölnir group, including Jónas Hallgrímsson, who sought to revolutionize literary theory by rejecting traditional rhyming practices. The influence of Romanticism extended beyond poetry into imaginative prose, most notably in the novels of Jón Thoroddsen. His works, such as Lad and Lass, gained status comparable to medieval sagas through their sharp wit and perceptive observations of local life. Throughout the century, this Romantic foundation supported a diverse array of writers who balanced national identity with lyrical innovation and translation of world literature.1