In the early 11th century, the events of Sigrid Undset's novel, Gunnar's Daughter, unfold a story of passion, vengefulness, and hatred. Out of it comes the character Viga-Ljot, or Ljot the killer. Ljot "came early to manhood" and quickly got praise for his "bravery and skill in arms." He was thought of as one who would achieve great things and was "fit for leadership." Ljot was trusty, loyal, was a man of few words and was slow to make friends, and kept to himself for the most part.

Ljot's character changes very much throughout the novel. He is most certainly not a static character. He goes from being a good man trying to win the hand of a fair maid to a brash unthinking barbarian, and then to a regretful, controlled person. Ljot is a very interesting character and, although not the main focus...