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The Prose Edda: Snorri Sturluson's guide to Norse mythology
Do you often find it hard to tell the difference between Thor and Tyr? Unsure of the relationship between Baldr and Bragi? Well, thanks in part to a 13th-century CE poet and politician, there is a textbook that serves as an ultimate guide to the rich complexities of Norse mythology.5 months ago — Culture and religion -
Debunking the myth of a Viking cult of death
Whilst Viking warriors were feared everywhere from the Iberian Peninsula to the Caspian Sea for their battlefield bravery and ferocity, there is no evidence for a single, society-wide "cult of death."6 months ago — Culture and religion -
Want to join a Norse heathen group? Here’s what to consider...
Christianity once snuffed out the old beliefs of people in Viking societies over a millennium ago. However, over the past half-century, there has been a revivalist spiritual movement rooted in pre-Christian Norse traditions.1 year ago — Legacy -
Ēostre: Is the pagan origin of Easter a complete fabrication?
The explanation offered by an 8th-century monk has been disputed for centuries.1 year 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 -
Ritual offerings: The role of animal sacrifice in Viking religion and society
Animal sacrifices played a bloody but vital role in the cultural, religious, and societal cohesion of Viking societies. We look at why the ritualistic murder of animals was not only sanctioned but encouraged throughout the early medieval period.1 year ago — Culture and religion -
The eerie tale of Thorolf, the Norse zombie warrior
People in Viking societies had a rich appreciation of death as it was part of everyday life. This admiration, respect, and reverence for the inevitable permeated the tales they told each other to while away a cold winter's night. Lying deep in the Eyrbyggja Saga is a supernatural tale of the undead.1 year ago — Culture and religion -
The role and symbolism of wolves in Viking societies
Wolves were a revered part of Viking society, renowned for their fierce and noble nature. These predators were seen as part of the delicate balance of nature, which led to their appearance not only on the pages of the sagas but also in the Old Norse religion.1 year ago — Culture and religion -
How a Viking chieftain and a modern dentist shaped the story of Garmo Stave Church
The next on our list of deep dives into those medieval wonders that are stave churches is the one in Garmo. Or is it in Garmo? Despite its ancient origins, it is now part of one of the most visited tourist attractions in Norway.2 years ago — Culture and religion -
From Jerusalem to Uppsala: Why Sweden rejected paganism for Christianity
The reign of Swedish King Olof Skötkonung was a historical pivot for the nascent Scandinavian kingdom that saw the transition from pagan beliefs to the worship of the new Christian religion. Why did Sweden reject the old gods for Jesus, and who benefitted from this spiritual paradigm shift?2 years ago — Partner content
