What is Germanic mythology?
Germanic mythology is the body of myths native to the Germanic peoples, including Norse mythology, Anglo-Saxon mythology, and Continental Germanic mythology. It formed a key element of Germanic paganism.
Questions about Germanic mythology
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Where did Germanic mythology come from?
Germanic mythology developed from Proto-Indo-European mythology, since Germanic languages themselves developed from Proto-Indo-European language. Petroglyphs found across Scandinavia suggest a version of the mythology existed since at least the Nordic Bronze Age.
What is the most important source for Germanic mythology?
The most important sources are works of Old Norse literature, most of which were written down in the Icelandic Commonwealth during the Middle Ages. The Poetic Edda is considered the single most important of these sources.
Who are the main gods in Germanic mythology?
The gods of Germanic mythology are divided into the Æsir, led by Odin, and the Vanir, who include Njörðr, Freyja, and Freyr. Odin's son Thor, the thunder god, and the trickster god Loki are also among the Æsir.
How does Germanic mythology say the world will end?
Germanic mythology prophesies the end of the world in a coming event called Ragnarök. In Asgard, warriors called Einherjar who died a heroic death in battle were gathered in Valhalla to prepare to help Odin in this final struggle.
Does Germanic mythology still influence anything today?
Yes, Germanic mythology remains an important part of Germanic philology and is an integral component of Heathenry, the modern revival of Germanic paganism. Elements of the mythology also survive in modern Germanic folklore.