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Five ways in which the Vikings altered the course of history
In an era marked by conquest and exploration, the Vikings carved a unique path across the globe. Jonathan Bennet offers an insightful exploration into how these formidable seafarers and warriors made their imprint on the course of world history.6 days ago — History -
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 weeks ago — Culture and religion -
The story of Logi, the Viking god of fire
Given the harsh climatic conditions of the Viking homeland, with long, dark winters, fire was essential for life and spirit. It's no surprise that followers of the Old Norse religion worshipped the personification of fire in Logi, whose origins highlight the fluidness of Norse deities.2 weeks ago — Culture and religion -
Sif, the golden-haired goddess of harvest and beloved wife of Thor
Whilst everyone nowadays seems to know Thor, thanks in part to recent Hollywood depictions of the Norse God of Thunder, few know of his wife, Sif. This Norse goddess of fertility and the harvest was more than just a head of great hair; she played an important role as a homely guardian and protector.1 month ago — Culture and religion -
Book review: Song of the Vikings - Snorri and the Making of Norse Myths
As Norse myths and sagas captivate audiences via Hollywood and Netflix, the man behind them, Snorri Sturluson, remains in the shadows. Nancy Marie Brown shines a light on this "Homer of the North" in a work that's part biography, part saga.1 month ago — Reviews -
The legacy of Tyr: The Norse god of war and justice
Aside from being the origin of no one's favorite day of the week, Tuesday, the Norse God Tyr is one of those Norse gods that the public should know more about.1 month ago — Culture and religion -
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 months ago — Culture and religion -
Hafgufa: The sea monster that bridged Norse legends and scientific observations
In the early medieval period, a host of mythical creatures were said to inhabit the land, air, and seas. Lurking deep beneath the surface, off the coast of Iceland, was the Hafgufa, a giant sea creature.2 months ago — Culture and religion -
Jörð: Unearthing the legacy of the Norse earth goddess
In this era of unpredictable climate change, where a horrific bushfire or flood seems to occur daily, many people are rethinking their relationship with the environment. A philosophy of less harm, less abuse, and perhaps a little more worship of nature seems to be growing in popularity.2 months ago — Culture and religion -
Modi and Magni: The forgotten sons of Thor
Whilst recent Hollywood depictions have seen Thor play very much a single man looking for love, this is not a totally accurate portrayal of the Norse God of Thunder.3 months ago — Culture and religion
