Infopanel 10

The world of the gods

The religion of the Vikings was polytheistic, meaning it had many gods. The most important ones were Thor, Odin, Freyr, and—in mythological stories—the cunning Loki, as well as the goddesses Frigg and Freyja.

Thor, the giant slayer, corresponded to the Germanic god of thunder, Donar, from whom our Thursday takes its name. Most mythological stories are about him. One of the most important tells of Thor's “fishing trip.” In it, he baits the Midgard Serpent, which encircles the entire world. But the fearful giant in his boat cuts the fishing line, so that the monster sinks back into the sea and on Judgment Day, Ragnarök, will devour the gods along with other monsters such as the giant wolf Fenrir, while the earth perishes in a world fire, Muspell.

Odin, father of the gods

The father of the gods, Odin, is a more complex figure. He was known as Wodan to the Germanic peoples, from which the English word “Wednesday” is derived. He is simultaneously the god of war and the dead, but also of runes, magic, wisdom, and poetry. Important myths about him include the receipt of profound wisdom, for which he had to sacrifice one of his eyes, which is why he was depicted as one-eyed. Odin is also responsible for poetry, because he stole the poet's mead from the giants, which bestows the gift of poetry. Odin's wife is called Frigg. The name Friday is derived from her name, even though Freyja, the goddess responsible for matters of love, was probably more important to humans.