Description: (Poet)
Matthías Jochumsson was an Icelandic Lutheran clergyman, poet, playwright, and translator. He served as a pastor in various locations in Iceland, worked as a newspaper editor and schoolteacher, and made trips to the continent to further his education. Matthías discovered his passion for languages and literature, moving away from his initial intention to enter the business world. He was recognized for his lyrical poetry, hymns, and translations, particularly from English and Scandinavian languages. His play "Skugga-Sveinn" is considered Iceland's first successful performed play, and he is best known for writing the Icelandic national anthem, "Lofsöngur."