Norse Myth and Heathen Practice
Study another modern Pagan community on its own terms.
Texts and distance
Our knowledge of Norse myth comes through sources including medieval Icelandic literature and material culture. The Poetic Edda and Snorri Sturluson's Prose Edda preserve important stories, but they were recorded in particular historical settings, after the Christianization of the region.
Modern Heathen traditions draw on these sources in different ways. Their community structures and theologies are not merely variants of Wicca, even though an individual practitioner may be interested in both.
Responsible borrowing and dialogue
The symbols and stories of Odin, Freyja and other figures occur in complex cultural traditions. A modern adaptation should be described honestly and should not claim to speak for every Heathen community.
Students should also be alert to extremist misappropriation of northern European symbols, while recognizing that such misuse does not define modern Heathenry as a whole.
Put it into perspective
Compare a Norse literary episode with one contemporary Heathen organization's public description of its practice.
Research: Poetic Edda; Snorri's Prose Edda; scholarship on Norse religion and contemporary Heathenry.
Review your understanding
Choose one answer per question. Feedback explains why each answer is correct.