A to Z Challenge – N for Norse Mythology

Hi all,

We’re heading back to a bit of mythology today, in particular the Vikings and Norse myths.

viking wolfThe Vikings wore wolf skins and drank wolf blood to take on the wolf’s spirit in battle. They also viewed real wolves as battle companions or hrægifr (corpse trolls).

Norse mythology is rich with depictions of wolves. Fenrir, one of the sons of Loki, was a great wolf. The other gods became afraid of Fenrir because the prophecies said he would cause great harm to them and would be the death of their leader Odin. They wanted to trick him into being bound in magical fetters, however Fenrir suspected it was a deception and refused to try them on on unless one of the god put their hand in his mouth as a sign of trust. The god Tyr agreed to do this, and when the shackles tightened and bound the wolf he bit off Tyr’s hand. Fenrir was trapped deep underground and it is said that he will remain there until Ragnarök (the Norse version of the Apocalypse, a great battle where many of their main gods will die).

loki sons

I’ve always been fascinated by mythology, and the Norse legends provide a rich library of gods, heroes and monsters (though it’s not always clear which is which). They also provide an endless source of inspiration and influence for my stories, though usually with an updated twist:)

Scarlett Legacy is on sale at Amazon now.

Amazon link

Take care x

 

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