Ragnarök

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Ragnarök is a series of events in Norse mythology that leads to the end of the world and the death of many gods, including Odin, Thor, Loki, Freyja, and Heimdallr. The term "Ragnarök" is often translated as "Twilight of the Gods" and signifies a cataclysmic destruction followed by a rebirth of the world.

Etymology

The word "Ragnarök" comes from Old Norse, where "ragna" means "gods" and "rök" means "fate" or "destiny." It is sometimes referred to as "Ragnarøkkr," which means "Twilight of the Gods."

Sources

The primary sources of information about Ragnarök are the Poetic Edda and the Prose Edda, both of which are collections of Old Norse poems and stories compiled in the 13th century.

Events Leading to Ragnarök

Several signs and events precede Ragnarök, including:

• The Fimbulwinter, a harsh winter lasting three years without summer.
• The breakdown of social order, where kin slay kin.
• The sun and moon being swallowed by the wolves Sköll and Hati.

The Final Battle

During Ragnarök, a great battle takes place on the plains of Vigrid. Key events include:

• Odin fighting the wolf Fenrir and being devoured.
• Thor battling the serpent Jörmungandr and killing it, but succumbing to its venom.
• Loki and Heimdallr killing each other.
• The fire giant Surtr setting the world ablaze.

Aftermath

After the destruction, the world is submerged in water. However, it eventually resurfaces, fertile and green. A few gods survive, including Víðarr and Váli, and they rebuild the world. Two human survivors, Líf and Lífþrasir, repopulate the earth.

Significance

Ragnarök represents the cyclical nature of time in Norse mythology, where destruction is followed by renewal. It also reflects themes of fate and inevitability, as the gods are aware of their impending doom but are powerless to prevent it.

Related Pages

• Norse mythology
• Odin
• Thor
• Loki
• Heimdallr
• Freyja
• Fenrir
• Jörmungandr
• Surtr
• Poetic Edda
• Prose Edda