Introduction

ODINN API is a minimalist HTTP API that exposes Old Norse texts (Hávamál, and later Völuspá, Völsunga saga, Skírnismál, etc.) in a structured, machine-friendly format.


Please note that this API is still in its development and data collection phase. It is a non-profit, long-term project, intended to incorporate both new literary works and new translations over time. Furthermore, the API query modes may be updated and/or new methods introduced, depending on demand and necessity.


In any case, the following ideas are considered core principles and will be maintained at all times, regardless of any future changes:


  • Simple, predictable URLs
  • Clean JSON responses
  • Separation between Legacy Mode and Advanced Mode
  • Extensible data model for authors, editions, and metadata

Goals

  • Provide a stable base for linguistic, literary, and historical exploration
  • Allow programmatic access to stanzas, ranges, and search
  • Support multiple languages and translations

Current Focus

  • Hávamál in multiple languages (Legacy Mode)
  • Hávamál with author-based access (Advanced Mode, e.g. Jackson Crawford)

Contributing & Support


Any help is welcome! Whether you found a typo in a translation or want to add a new language:



How to contribute

  • Reporting Errors: Please Open an Issue describing the bug or the typo.
  • Adding Languages/Features - Fork the repository.
  • Create a new branch (git checkout -b feature/new-language).
  • Commit your changes.
  • Open a Pull Request explaining your contribution.

Translation Support


If you are a linguist or native speaker and want to help us include more texts in your language, please reach out via Issues!


Performance & Tech


  • Zero Cold Starts: Powered by V8 isolates.
  • Edge Computing: Deployed globally via Cloudflare Workers.
  • Lightweight: Minimal overhead for maximum speed.