Facts and fancies for the curious from the harvest-fields of literature : $b A melange of excerpta

"Facts and Fancies for the Curious from the Harvest-Fields of Literature" by Charles C. Bombaugh is a collection of literary excerpts and essays compiled in the early 20th century. This work serves as a edifying miscellany, designed to pique the interests of readers with diverse tastes, containing topics ranging from history to language and culture, along with humorous anecdotes. The book aims to present a buffet of literary delights for casual reading, accommodating both knowledgeable scholars and casual literature enthusiasts alike. The opening of the book introduces readers to its purpose, which is to provide a delightful variety of literary insights and curiosities from renowned sources. The compiler reflects on literature's role as a human voice through time and expresses gratitude to those who have contributed to this compilation, resulting in an eclectic and engaging collection. The initial segments delve into subjects such as the Norse discoveries of America, the characteristics of Icelandic sagas, the significance of early European explorers like Leif Erikson, and the foundations of American identity, offering tantalizing glimpses into the rich tapestry of literary history.