Norse mythology

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Tjängvide

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Rökstenen

Edda

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Thor wades while the æsir ride by Frølich

Norse mythology is the body of mythology of the North Germanic peoples stemming from Norse paganism and continuing after the Christianization of Scandinavia, and into the Scandinavian folklore of the modern period. The northernmost extension of Germanic mythology, Norse mythology consists of tales of various deities, beings, and heroes derived from numerous sources from both before and after the pagan period, including medieval manuscripts, archaeological representations, and folk tradition.

Origins and Sources

The primary sources of Norse mythology are the Icelandic sagas, the Eddas. The older Edda, known as the Poetic Edda, is a collection of poetic texts that contain the myths of the Norse gods and heroes. The younger Edda, or Prose Edda, written by Snorri Sturluson in the 13th century, is a prose work that includes not only mythological tales but also a guide to poetic meter. Other important sources include the Heimskringla, also by Snorri Sturluson, which narrates the history of the Norse kings and includes mythological episodes.

Pantheon and Cosmology

Norse mythology is polytheistic, with a pantheon consisting of numerous gods and goddesses, each associated with specific aspects of life and the universe. The chief of the gods is Odin, the god of wisdom, poetry, and war. Other important deities include Thor, the god of thunder; Freyja, the goddess of love and fertility; and Loki, the trickster god.

The Norse cosmos is divided into nine worlds, connected by Yggdrasil, the world tree. These worlds include Asgard, the home of the gods; Midgard, the world of humans; Jotunheim, the land of the giants; and Hel, the underworld.

Myths and Legends

Norse mythology encompasses a vast array of myths and legends, ranging from the creation of the world to its end, known as Ragnarok. The myths include stories of the gods' adventures, battles with giants, and the quests of human heroes such as Sigurd the dragon slayer.

One of the most famous tales is the story of the Volsungs, a saga that includes the hero Sigurd, his love for the valkyrie Brynhildr, and the cursed treasure of the dragon Fafnir. Another key myth is the death of Baldur, Odin's son, which is seen as a precursor to Ragnarok.

Legacy

Norse mythology has had a profound impact on Western culture, particularly in literature and art, from the Viking Age to the modern period. It has inspired works by composers like Richard Wagner, who based his opera cycle Der Ring des Nibelungen on Norse legends, and authors such as J.R.R. Tolkien, whose Middle-earth lore draws heavily on Norse mythology.

In contemporary times, Norse mythology continues to influence popular culture, evident in literature, movies, and video games. Its themes of heroism, the power of fate, and the exploration of the supernatural world continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.

See Also

• Viking Age
• Runes
• Old Norse
• Scandinavian folklore