The Wreath: Kristin Lavransdatter #1

After Kristin celebrates her 15th birthday, Lavrans—who by this time has become very wealthy—and his friend Sir Andres Gudmundsøn agree that Kristin should be betrothed to Sir Andres’ second son, Simon. Lavrans throws a celebratory banquet in the couple’s honor when he returns to Jørundgaard with Simon and Sir Andres. Though disappointed with the match at first, Kristin becomes accustomed to Simon’s demeanor and eventually feels “entirely satisfied” (62) with the arrangement. By this time, Ulvhild has grown, and while still permanently injured by the accident, she can walk using a crutch. Lavrans and Ragnfrid welcome one more child into the world, a daughter whom they name Ramborg.

That summer, Kristin’s childhood friend Arne Gyrdsøn leaves for the city of Hamar. Kristin does not reciprocate Arne’s feelings toward her, but Arne nevertheless crafts a sewing chest for Kristin so that she will have something to remember him by after he has left. Arne attempts to confess his love for Kristin, but she rebuffs him by stating that it would be useless for them to fall in love with one another. At this point, Kristin has become tired of Simon, saying in the end that she “would rather not have any man at all” (66).