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The Valkyries as battle maidens, fate weavers, mythic messengers, and... a source of artistic inspiration
The Valkyries have been a source of artistic inspiration for centuries due to their roles as battle maidens, weavers of fate, and mythic messengers.5 months ago — Culture and religion -
The nine worlds of Norse mythology: How many, which ones, and does a list exist?
A key component of Norse mythological and spiritual beliefs was the existence of nine realms. We do a deep dive into the original multiverse, long before any Marvel movie stole the idea.8 months ago — Culture and religion -
How do you get into Valhalla? The Valkyries' rules of admission
Think getting into Berghain, the famous nightclub in Berlin, is hard? Well, try getting into an eternal feast with Odin! We break down exactly how you were granted admission to Valhalla.1 year 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 -
What did the Vikings think of the Northern Lights?
Each year, hordes of tourists travel to northern Scandinavia to see the Northern Lights. A millennium ago, despite limited records, it's certain the Vikings were equally fascinated by this celestial display.1 year ago — Culture and religion -
Who was Hel, the Norse goddess of the underworld?
For people in Viking societies, the Norse mythological being Hel was the ruler of the dead, a figure of quiet reverence and ultimate respect. She played a vital role in their understanding of the afterlife and the natural cycle of life and death.2 years 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 years ago — Culture and religion -
Thunder and trickery: The complex relationship of Thor and Loki, according Norse lore
A relationship between family members can, at times, swing violently between outright hostility and protective love. This was very much representative of the complex relationship between Thor and Loki, two great gods in the Norse pantheon.3 years 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 -
Everything you need to know about Freyja, the Norse goddess of war and love
War and love. Two contradictory states, right? Wrong. For people in Viking societies, these two concepts were embodied by Freyja, a multifaceted Norse goddess.3 years ago — Culture and religion
