NORSE MYTHOLOGY Flashcards
is the collection of myths and
legends of the North Germanic peoples, particularly the Scandinavians, encompassing their beliefs about gods, goddesses, heroes, and the cosmos.
Norse mythology
It features a rich pantheon, including prominent deities like?
Odin, Thor, and Freyja,
interconnected by the world tree
Yggdrasil.
were seafaring raiders and traders.
Originated from Norway, Sweden,
Denmark, and Iceland.
were skilled shipbuilders and navigators,
which allowed them to travel vast distances.
They are known for their explorations,
trade, and raids across Europe and
beyond, reaching as far as North America,
the Mediterranean, and the Middle East.
Vikings
Content: A collection of Old Norse poems, many of which are anonymous. It
includes mythological narratives, heroic
legends, and wisdom poetry.
Themes: Explores creation myths, the exploits of gods like Odin and Thor, and
tales of heroes.
Poetic Edda
Author: Written by Snorri Sturluson in the 13th century.
Content: Serves as both a guide to the mythology and a manual for poets,
explaining the lore and providing narratives of gods and heroes.
Prose Edda
The Norse creation myth begins with the void known as
Ginnungagap
As the heat from Muspelheim melted
the ice from Niflheim, the first being
Ymir
emerged from the melting ice. From Ymir’s
body, the first gods were born
Odin, Vili, and Ve.
The Norse pantheon is composed of a rich
tapestry of gods, goddesses, and mythical
beings, organized into two main groups:
Aesir and the Vanir
are the principal gods
of the Norse pantheon and are
associated with war, sovereignty,
and order
The Aesir
Odin’s wife, the
goddess of marriage,
motherhood, and
prophecy. She is one of
the foremost
goddesses in the Aesir.
FRIGG
The god of thunder,
strength, and
protection. He wields
Mjölnir, his powerful
hammer, and is the
defender of both gods
and humanity against
the giants.
THOR
The one-handed god of
war and law. Tyr is known
for his courage and for
sacrificing his hand to
bind the wolf Fenrir
TYR
The god of light,
purity, and beauty. His
death is one of the
pivotal events leading
to Ragnarok
BALDUR
