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Helheim: For all those who suffer a not-so-glorious death
An icy afterlife awaits those who venture to one of the nine realms of Norse mythology. Like Odin, let us venture there to pick apart the often-overlooked realm of the dead.11 months ago — Culture and religion -
Beyond Valhalla: Forgotten halls of the Norse afterlife
Whilst Valhalla was the desired location for many warriors in Viking societies, there were several other mythical halls where the not-so-brave could while away eternity.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 ravens in Norse mythology
Whilst it has been centuries since the last Viking ship ever sailed, Norse mythology has lived on as a cultural legacy of people from Viking societies. In a mythology filled with animals, ravens are seemingly ever-present in a symbolic role of wisdom, insight, and a connection to death.1 year ago — Culture and religion -
Viking burial rites: An exploration of death and tradition
Popular culture loves a good Viking burial. The recent blockbuster movie The Northmen dedicates over 10 minutes to a Viking funeral. But aside from all the funeral pyres and sacrificial slave deaths, what do we know about Viking burial rites?3 years ago — Culture and religion
