Norse Mythology: Myths, Gods, and the Viking World

Flashcards summarizing key terms and concepts from Norse mythology, gods, and the Viking worldview.

Norse

Scandinavian people from Norway, Sweden, and Denmark active during the Viking Age (c. 800–1100 CE) known for seafaring, warfare, and trade.

Norse mythology

A rich collection of myths featuring gods, goddesses, legendary heroes, and magical creatures, reflecting the cultural heritage of the Norse.

Poetic Edda

An untitled collection of Old Norse narrative poems that preserved Norse mythology.

Prose Edda

A 13th century Norse textbook providing a detailed account of Norse mythology.

Yggdrasil

The world tree in Norse mythology, connecting the nine realms.

Valhalla

The warrior heaven in Norse belief for those who die bravely in battle.

Ragnarök

The prophesied end of the world in Norse mythology involving a final battle between gods and giants.

Freyja

The goddess of love, war, magic, and beauty in Norse mythology.

Tyr

The god of war and justice in Norse mythology, known for his bravery.

Odin

The supreme deity in Norse mythology, associated with wisdom, war, and poetry.

Thor

The god of thunder in Norse mythology, celebrated for his strength and bravery.

Fenrir

A monstrous wolf destined to kill Odin during Ragnarök.

Jörmungandr

The world-serpent in Norse mythology and enemy of Thor.

Valkyries

Warrior women in Norse mythology who choose those who may die or live in battles.

Hel

The goddess of death and ruler of the underworld in Norse mythology.

Kennings

Poetic metaphors used in Norse poetry to convey complex ideas.

Asgard

The realm of the gods in Norse mythology.

Midgard

The realm of humans in Norse mythology, connected to Asgard by Bifrost.

Bifrost

The rainbow bridge in Norse mythology that connects Asgard and Midgard.

Norns

The three goddesses of fate in Norse mythology, responsible for shaping the destiny of gods and men.

Raven

A symbol of wisdom and a companion of Odin in Norse mythology, often associated with prophecy.

Hel

The goddess of death and the underworld in Norse mythology, traditionally seen as a half-dead, half-living figure.

Njord

The god of the sea, wind, and fertility in Norse mythology, often associated with trade and prosperity.

Frost Giants

Mythical beings in Norse mythology, often depicted as adversaries of the gods, dwelling in the icy realm of Jotunheim.

Draugr

The undead creatures in Norse mythology that protect their graves and can rise to attack the living.

Vanaheim

The realm of the Vanir, a group of gods associated with fertility, prosperity, and nature in Norse mythology.

Sigurd

A legendary hero in Norse mythology known for slaying the dragon Fafnir and possessing the treasure of the Nibelungs.

Surtur

A fire giant in Norse mythology, prophesied to lead the forces of chaos during Ragnarök.