George Stephens (priest)

George Stephens (1813-1895) was an English clergyman and philologist, best known for his extensive work on runology and Old Norse literature. Ordained as a priest in the Church of England, his academic pursuits led him to a professorship in English language and literature at the University of Copenhagen, a position he held for many years.

Stephens dedicated much of his scholarly life to deciphering and interpreting runic inscriptions, particularly those found in Scandinavia and the British Isles. His magnum opus, "The Old Northern Runic Monuments of Scandinavia and England," published in multiple volumes, remains a significant resource for runologists. This comprehensive work included drawings, transcriptions, and interpretations of numerous runic stones and artifacts.

Beyond runology, Stephens also contributed significantly to the study of Old Norse sagas and other literature. He published editions of various Norse texts and explored the connections between Norse mythology and Germanic folklore.

Stephens was a proponent of a pan-Germanic approach to understanding the history and culture of Northern Europe. While his work has been valued for its meticulous detail and comprehensive scope, some of his interpretations and theories have been challenged by later scholarship. He was a prolific writer and correspondent, and his work helped to popularize the study of runes and Old Norse culture in the 19th century.