Sigrid Undset Poetry Reading in Bethesda,MD

Virtually unknown in the non-Norwegian world, and little known in Norway, is her small book of poetry, Ungdom (Youth). The book was published when she was 28, but it is claimed that the bulk of the work was produced between her ages of 16 and 20.

This event will feature readings, in both English and Norwegian, of Sigrid Undset's work by translator Harold P. Hanson and actress Michelle Alexandra. Norwegian ambassador to the United States, the Honorable Wegger Christian Strommen, will greet guests to the event.

Following the event will be a catered reception sponsored by the Royal Norwegian Embassy.

Sigrid Undset (1882-1949) is best known for Kristin Lavransdatter, which portrays the life of a woman in medieval Scandinavia in three volumes. She was a hugely prolific author, penning more than 40 books, and ranks as one of the most important in Norwegian literature. During the 1930s she was a fierce critic of Adolph Hitler and Nazi Germany. Later, after Germany invaded Norway, she was forced to flee. She settled for a time in Brooklyn, NY, where she advocated on behalf of her native country and European Jews. After the war she returned to Norway and continued to write.

Dr. Harold Hanson is a retired professor of Physics, a one-time Staff Director of the Committee of Science and Technology of the U.S. House of Representatives, and an ex-Provost of three universities, including the University of Florida. He has been a Fulbright scholar in Norway. He is the primary translator of the Undset poems.

Michelle Alexandra studied theatre at The George Washington University in Washington, DC. Michelle has also studied acting in London, at The New York Film Academy and in Oxford at The British American Drama Academy. She is a duel citizen of both the US and Norway. She has spent a great deal of time in Norway and speaks the language like a native. Since graduating from college, Michelle has been living and working as an actress in New York City.