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Feathers and fire: Freyja's cloak in Norse myth
With a cloak that allowed a magical transformation into a bird and enabled flight across the nine realms of the Norse cosmos, Freyja was surely the best-dressed deity in Norse mythology.1 year ago — Culture and religion -
The giant of stone and the Norse God of Thunder: Thor's fight with Hrungnir
The epic tale of the clash of these two Norse titans involves horse racing, betting, a drunk party guest overstaying his welcome, and the curious origin of flint.1 year ago — Culture and religion -
The horse, the builder, and the trickster: How Asgard got its walls
Blue-collared construction work meets mythological fantasy in this ripping and raunchy tale from the Norse sagas.1 year ago — Culture and religion -
Forging legends: Dwarves as master craftsmen in Norse mythology
Whilst no Norse god was devoted to artisanal skill and handiwork, people in Viking societies held several mythical characters in reverence for their crafty labor.2 years ago — Culture and religion -
Exploring the magical world of Viking symbols for protection
Despite their fearsome reputation on the battlefield, people from Viking societies lived in an era of high superstition and belief. Protection was sought from the gods through a series of runic symbols against misfortune, evil, and bad luck.2 years ago — Culture and religion -
Unveiling the secrets of Thor's belt, Megingjörð
There is no more powerful and popular deity in the Norse pantheon than Thor, the Norse God of Thunder. Much of this popularity lies in the stories and sagas about his superhuman strength, in which an item of fashion plays a surprising role.2 years ago — Culture and religion -
Thor's hammer discovered in Norfolk, England, declared a treasure
After a seven-year wait, a pendant found in Norfolk believed to depict the hammer of Thor has officially been declared a treasure. The pendant is one of a number of examples found in the north and east of England that clearly indicate the spread of Viking activity.2 years ago — News -
Norse gods of war: A primer
At the heart of Viking society was a warrior culture forged in battles everywhere, from the British Isles to Baghdad. This culture was shaped by its relationship with the Old Norse religion, which blended a desire for glory and honor on the battlefield along with reverence for the Norse gods of war.2 years ago — Culture and religion -
Thor's arsenal explained: Three possessions that define his might
Whilst many a Hollywood poster shows a reimagined Thor brandishing his mighty hammer, Mjöllnir, this was not the only magical aid that the Norse God of Thunder possessed. To understand how and why people in Viking societies revered Thor, it's essential to acknowledge his three crucial possessions.3 years ago — Culture and religion -
Norse mythology: What you need to know about Gungnir, Odin's spear
Odin, the chief god in the Norse pantheon, was known for his majestic wisdom and might. Known as the "All-Father," he ruled over Asgard and was as mysterious as he was majestic. This majesty is also symbolized in his spear, Gungnir.3 years ago — Culture and religion
