The sixth Icelandic Field School from the Department of Icelandic of the University of Manitoba is currently visiting the University Centre of the Westfjords. Like previous years Dr. Birna Bjarnadóttir, Chair of the Icelandic Dept, is in charge, assisted by Peter John Buchan. The Icelandic Dept. is unique being the only one of its kind in North America. Last year the Department celebrated its 60th anniversary with a series of cultural events.

 

The course explores medieval and contemporary culture in Iceland, offering instruction around the country in cooperation with the University of Iceland in Reykjavík and the University Centre of the Westfjords. The field school offers classes on Icelandic culture, with an emphasis on the connection to nature and the environment. The schedule consists of lectures, visits to museums and Icelandic writers and poets give readings. Here in the Westfjords there is a focus on the Saga of Gísli the Outlaw and the group is offered a programme that concists of a sailing trip, hikes as well as a monologue based on the saga.

 

When leaving the Westfjords after a two-week stay in the Westfjords, the group will head north on their way around Iceland. We hope to welcome Birna and Peter John together with a new group next summer.