Astral themes in some Norse myths




Clive Tolley

PublisherMolnar and Kelemen Oriental Publishers

Budapest

2015

Shaman: Journal of the International Society for Shamanistic Research

23

109

139



I analyse the two myths found in the extant part of the Old Norse poem Haustlong, composed by Þjóðólfr of Hvinir around 900, along with later retellings by Snorri Sturluson from the 1220s. These concern the abduction of the goddess Iounn by the giant Þjazi, and the contest of Þórr with the giant Hrungnir. I look at possible seasonal concerns, and make tentative suggestions about possible astral aspects of these myths. I look briefly at potential cultural currents of influence to explain the development of these myths, hinting at links with both the Arab and Sámi worlds.




Last updated on 2024-26-11 at 11:50