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Gerðr: An earth goddess at the edge of the Norse pantheon
Gerðr, a rather obscure earth goddess, speaks not only to the ancient agrarian traditions of Viking societies but also to their need for the powerful to have divine legitimacy.8 months ago — Culture and religion -
What Snorri Sturluson didn't like and left out of the Norse sagas
Why did the 13th-century Icelandic poet, politician, and saga spinner extraordinaire leave some sagas out of his famous compilations?1 year ago — Culture and religion -
From Freyja to Idunn: The legendary goddesses of Norse mythology
Though Viking societies were embedded with a patriarchal structure and a testosterone-fueled warrior ethos, the feminine ideal was worshiped through a series of Norse deities – goddesses that were celebrated as much in Norse literature as spirituality.1 year ago — Culture and religion -
Bragi: The divine poet of Norse mythology
The rich tapestry of sagas and poems that Viking societies left behind extends well beyond their reputation as fierce warriors. In fact, in the world of early medieval Scandinavia, poetry was held in such high regard that it was worshipped in the form of a god, Bragi.2 years ago — Culture and religion -
Shedding light on Sól, the Norse goddess of the sun
Despite the harsh and seemingly never-ending winters, many Scandinavians love getting a bit of sun on their faces and bodies in the warmer months. This love affair can partly be traced back to the early medieval period when the sun was revered as Sól, a goddess of the sun.2 years ago — Culture and religion -
Book review: Norse Mythology - A Guide to the Gods, Heroes, Rituals, and Beliefs
Rather than writing a narrative account of Norse mythology, John Lindow, a distinguished scholar in Nordic studies, offers up an encyclopedia of Norse mythological deities and concepts. The result falls a little flat.2 years ago — Reviews -
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 -
Everything you need to know about Njörðr, the Norse god of the sea
Given the vital importance of the sea to people in Viking societies, it should be no surprise that there was a God of the Sea nestled in their pantheon, Njörðr.3 years ago — Culture and religion -
Seasonal rhythms of Viking culture: The Wheel of the Year
In an era before we had the entire knowledge of humanity within the palm of our hand, time was a concept that had yet to develop fully. People in Viking societies used the seasonal rhythm of the year to note the time as well as celebrate important dates and festivals.3 years ago — Culture and religion
