Last Updated on October 19, 2024
The Nafnaþulur is a collection of lists found at the end of Skáldskaparmál, a section of Snorri Sturluson’s Prose Edda. Nafnaþulur translates to “the enumeration of names” in Old Norse and features numerous lists of names tied to various mythological figures, natural elements, animals, and objects. It functions as a valuable resource for skalds (poets) who sought to enrich their verse with alternate names, or heiti, for gods, heroes, and other significant entities in Norse mythology.
The lists include names of gods, dwarves, giants, and sea kings. They also contain references to natural phenomena like rivers, the sea, and mountains. The Nafnaþulur continues the tradition of poetic kennings and serves as an extensive vocabulary list for crafting Norse poetry. Scholars believe that these lists may predate Snorri’s Prose Edda and were perhaps part of older oral traditions, compiled to ensure their preservation.
Though often overlooked, the Nafnaþulur remains an essential part of Norse mythological literature. It preserves names and terms that would otherwise be lost. This section has played a crucial role in the interpretation of the mythological context of Skáldskaparmál, giving deeper insights into the poetic traditions of the time.
The Rune Associated with the Nafnaþulur
No single Elder Futhark rune directly associates with Nafnaþulur. However, the rune Ansuz holds significance in this context. Ansuz represents Odin, the god of poetry, wisdom, and communication. Since the Nafnaþulur serves skalds as a tool to enhance their poetry, Ansuz makes a fitting association. This rune embodies the divine inspiration and knowledge passed down from Odin to poets and storytellers.
The shape of Ansuz resembles a mouth or a sound being spoken, symbolizing the importance of spoken words and their influence. In the world of the skalds, where words held great power, Ansuz reminds poets of their connection to Odin’s wisdom. By invoking this rune, skalds could enhance their poetic compositions and channel their creativity into well-crafted verse. Ansuz also emphasizes the significance of names and titles, reflecting the purpose of the Nafnaþulur.