Animals hold significant importance in Norse mythology, symbolizing strength, wisdom, and the forces of nature. Many gods and goddesses are closely associated with animals, which serve as their companions or symbols of their power. Odin, the Allfather, has two ravens, Huginn and Muninn, representing thought and memory. They fly across the world to bring him information. Thor, the god of thunder, rides a chariot pulled by two goats, Tanngrisnir and Tanngnjóstr, which he can eat and resurrect. Wolves also play a vital role, with Fenrir, a monstrous wolf, prophesied to bring chaos during Ragnarök. Serpents, such as Jörmungandr, the Midgard Serpent, represent destructive and uncontrollable natural forces. Animals in Norse mythology embody the deep connection between humans and nature, as well as the balance between life, death, and the spiritual realm, making them essential figures in the myths and sagas.
Geri and Freki are Odin’s two loyal wolves, accompanying him in all his journeys. Their names mean “The Ravenous” or “Greedy,” highlighting their fierce nature. These wolves play an essential […]
Geri and Freki (Gere and Freke): Odin’s Loyal Companions Read Post »
Garmr, also spelled Garm, is a monstrous wolf-like creature who guards the gates of Helheim. Helheim is the realm of the dead, ruled by the goddess Hel. Garmr ensures that
Garmr (Garm): The Fierce Guardian of Helheim Read Post »
Saehrímnir, also spelled Sæhrímnir, stands as the great boar served daily to the gods and warriors in Valhalla. This magical creature ensures an unending feast for those chosen by Odin,
Saehrímnir (Sæhrímnir): The Eternal Feast of the Gods Read Post »
Jörmungandr, also known as the Midgard Serpent, is a massive sea serpent that encircles Midgard, the world inhabited by humans. His name means “huge monster,” and he’s the middle child
Jörmungandr (Jormungand, Jörmungand): The Midgard Serpent Read Post »
Sköll and Hati are two powerful wolves who endlessly chase the sun and moon across the sky. Their pursuit drives the cycles of day and night. Sköll, whose name means
Sköll and Hati: The Wolves of the Sky Read Post »
Fenrir, also known as Fenrisúlfr, is one of the most powerful and feared beings in existence. Born to Loki, the trickster god, and the giantess Angrboða, Fenrir has the might
Fenrir (Fenrisúlfr): The Great Wolf Read Post »
Huginn and Muninn, the two ravens that accompany Odin, serve as his eyes and ears across the Nine Realms. Their names translate to “Thought” (Huginn) and “Memory” (Muninn), which reflects
Huginn and Muninn: Odin’s Ravens of Thought and Memory Read Post »
Fafnir, sometimes spelled “Fafner,” began life as a dwarf before transforming into a powerful dragon. His greed drove him to kill his father, Hreiðmarr, and take possession of a cursed
Fafnir (Fafner): The Greedy Dragon Read Post »
Auðhumla (pronounced “OWD-hoom-la”), a sacred and ancient cow, plays a key role in creation. Her name can also appear as Audhumbla or Auðhumbla. Auðhumla emerges from the frozen depths of
Auðhumla (Audhumbla, Audhumla): The Primordial Cow of Creation Read Post »
