Saxo Grammaticus (c. 1150-c. 1220)

Danish historian. His 16-volume Gesta Danorum, written in Latin about 1185-1216, is a history of Denmark down to 1185. It includes both factual and mythological material, and contains the story of Amleth, a source of Shakespeare's Hamlet.

Drawing on the Icelandic sagas, it incorporates descriptions of mythological figures, old customs, legal rulings, and ancient beliefs alongside authenticated history.

Saxo Grammaticus was born on the island of Sjælland. He became secretary to Absalon, archbishop of Lund, who encouraged him to begin the Gesta Danorum.