There is a common notion that mythologies are boring. It would even sound stupid if someone asks about choosing between going to a movie or reading about some mythology. But what if you came to know that your favourite movie is based on some mythology? Definitely it will draw your attention towards that mythology. Who won’t dig into the mythological stories from where your favourite movie kick started its journey. Asgard ! Does that sound interesting? So let’s get into it, everything you need to know about Asgard from Norse mythology is here.
Before knowing about Asgard you need to know about the Norse mythology. Norse mythology comes from the Old Norse religion, which is a part of the Germanic religion. The Norse are believed to be the northernmost extension of Germanic Mythology. The Germanic religion almost came to an end after the arrival of the Viking age when most of the Germanic were converted into Christians.
However, the Norse have a rich history of mythological stories. Yggdrasil, the Norse World Tree is a collection of stories of the Norse. It’s said that Yggdrasil is a humongous ash tree. The branches of the tree extend to the heavens whereas the roots connect the trunk to the ground. Which depicts 9 realms of existence. Which includes Asgard, Valhalla and Midgard. Where Asgard is the home of Gods. Valhalla refers to the hall of warriors and Midgard is the land of mortals(humans).
According to the myths Asgard is located in the sky where the Gods live. But Asgard is connected to Midgard by a rainbow bridge named ‘Bifrost’. According to the legends Bifrost is guarded by the vigilant God Heimdall. It is said that during Ragnarok, the giants will breach the defence of Heimdall and slay all the Gods. Now let’s take a look at some of the most prominent Gods and Goddesses of Norse mythology.
Gods and Goddesses of Norse mythology
Odin
Odin is the King of the Gods of Asgard. This makes him the most prominent figure and the supreme god of the Aesir.
Frigg
She is the goddess of sky and Queen of Aesir Gods. The Queen also had the powers of foreknowledge.
Thor
He is the son of Odin. Thor is the God of Thunder and also the loyal defender of Asgard.
Balder
Balder was the half brother of Thor. He was the younger son of Odin and Frigg. He was regarded as the God of light and purity.
Vidar
Vidar is also the son of Odin and is also regarded as the silent god of vengeance.
Tyr
Tyr is one of the bravest gods in Norse Mythology. He is referred to as the God of War.
Bragi
He is considered as the God of Poetry in Norse mythology. Bragi is also termed as the ‘bard’ god of Asgard.
Idun
She is the eternal goddess of youthfulness in the Norse Mythology. She is often depicted as a young lady with long golden hairs.
Loki
Loki is the Trickster God of Norse mythology. He is also referred to as the God of Mischief. He is not evil but has taken the life of Balder, accidentally.
Hel
She is the daughter of Loki and the Ruler of the Underworld. She is also referred to as ‘Helheim’.
