by Derek Murphy | Myth & Folklore
In the heart of ancient Europe, amidst the chilling winds and snowy landscapes of Scandinavia, a tapestry of myths and legends was woven, one that would resonate throughout the ages and influence cultures far and wide. Norse mythology, with its pantheon of powerful gods, legendary creatures, and epic narratives, is not only a reflection of the values, beliefs, and fears of the Vikings but also a testament to humanity’s innate desire to understand the cosmos and its place within it.
The Cosmos and Creation
The Norse cosmos is a complex web of realms, connected by the great World Tree, Yggdrasil. At its beginning, there was only the gaping void of Ginnungagap, flanked by the realms of fire (Muspelheim) and ice (Niflheim). From their collision emerged Ymir, the first giant, and Audhumla, the primeval cow. The godly triad of Odin, Vili, and Vé, descendants of giants themselves, eventually slew Ymir and crafted the universe from his corpse.
The Aesir and Vanir: The Principal Gods
- Odin – The Allfather and chief god, associated with war, poetry, and wisdom. He sacrificed an eye at Mímir’s well for knowledge and hung from Yggdrasil to gain the secrets of the runes.Excerpt from the Poetic Edda’s Hávamál:
“I know that I hung on a windy tree
nine long nights,
wounded with a spear, dedicated to Odin,
myself to myself,
on that tree of which no man knows
from where its roots run.”
- Thor – The god of thunder, protector of Midgard (Earth), wielding his mighty hammer, Mjölnir. A hero in countless tales, he frequently confronts giants and the world-serpent, Jörmungandr.
- Freyja and Freyr – Twin deities from the Vanir family, associated with love, fertility, and prosperity. Freyja, also linked to war and death, has a chariot drawn by cats, while Freyr wields a ship and boar, symbols of prosperity.
- Loki – The trickster god, whose cunning and mischief bring both entertainment and calamity to the gods. His actions, including the betrayal leading to the death of Balder, the god of light, set the stage for Ragnarök, the apocalypse.
Sagas, Heroes, and Morality
Norse tales aren’t limited to gods. Heroes like Sigurd, who slew the dragon Fafnir, and the Volsungs exemplify values of bravery, honor, and fate, illustrating the Vikings’ beliefs in destiny and the inexorable nature of time.
Ragnarök: The Twilight of the Gods
Foretold in ancient prophecies, Ragnarök is the cataclysmic event wherein gods, giants, and monsters clash in a final battle. Odin faces Fenrir the wolf, Thor confronts Jörmungandr, and the world is submerged in water, paving the way for a rebirth.
Norse Mythology in Modern Popular Culture
The allure of Norse myths has not waned. J.R.R. Tolkien, inspired by the Norse sagas, crafted his Middle-Earth in “The Lord of the Rings.” Marvel Comics revitalized Thor and Loki, leading to their cinematic renditions in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Series like Netflix’s “Vikings” and the PlayStation game “God of War” further showcase the lasting intrigue these myths hold.
Neil Gaiman, in his book “Norse Mythology,” observes:
“The Norse myths are the myths of a chilly place, with long, long winter nights and endless summer days, myths of a people who did not entirely trust or even like their gods, although they respected and feared them.”
The Legends of Norse Mythology
Norse mythology is a vast tapestry of tales that tell of gods, giants, dwarfs, and humans, all interconnected in a complex web of relationships, rivalries, and quests. Let’s delve into some of the most popular and enduring stories:
The Binding of Fenrir
The gods, foreseeing that the wolf Fenrir (Loki’s offspring) would bring about their doom, decided to bind him. After two failed attempts with chains, the gods commissioned the dwarfs to craft a magical ribbon called Gleipnir. Fenrir, sensing deceit, only allowed himself to be bound if one of the gods placed their hand in his mouth as a pledge of good faith. The brave Tyr stepped forward. When Fenrir realized he couldn’t break free, he bit off Tyr’s hand.
The Theft of Thor’s Hammer
Thor’s hammer, Mjölnir, was stolen by the giant Thrym, who demanded Freyja as his bride in exchange. To retrieve the hammer, Thor disguised himself as Freyja and went to Thrym’s abode. During the wedding feast, Thor’s identity was almost revealed multiple times, but quick thinking and explanations kept his secret. When Mjölnir was finally brought forth to bless the union, Thor seized it and unleashed his wrath upon Thrym and his kin.
The Birth of Sleipnir
Loki once sabotaged a deal between the gods and a giant builder, who was constructing Asgard’s walls. The builder demanded the sun, moon, and goddess Freyja if he finished on time. With the help of his horse Svadilfari, it seemed the builder would succeed. In desperation, Loki transformed into a mare, distracting Svadilfari and halting the construction. Later, Loki gave birth to an eight-legged horse, Sleipnir, who became Odin’s majestic steed.
The Mead of Poetry
Odin sought the Mead of Poetry, a drink that bestowed the gift of eloquence and wisdom. Guarded by the giantess Gunnlöd, the mead was kept in three containers within a mountain. Odin, through cunning and charm, managed to consume all the mead. Transforming into an eagle, he flew towards Asgard with the giant Suttungr in pursuit. Upon reaching Asgard, he spat out the mead into waiting containers. However, a few drops fell to Midgard, the realm of humans, and from these, bad poets take their inspiration.
The Apples of Idunn
Idunn, the goddess of youth, possessed apples that granted the gods immortality. Loki, coerced by the giant Thiazi, betrayed the gods and led to Idunn’s capture. Without her apples, the gods began to age. Loki, threatened by the gods, transformed into a falcon to rescue Idunn from Thiazi, who pursued them in eagle form. As they neared Asgard, a fire was lit, burning Thiazi’s feathers, causing him to fall, and he was then slain by the gods.
The Death of Balder
Balder, beloved of all gods, dreamt of his death, causing distress in Asgard. His mother, Frigg, secured promises from all things to not harm Balder, except mistletoe, which she deemed harmless. Loki, aware of this oversight, fashioned a dart from mistletoe. He tricked the blind god Höðr into throwing it at Balder, leading to Balder’s death. This event was the beginning of the end, setting the stage for Ragnarök.
Ragnarök: The Fate of the Gods
This prophesied end battle saw gods, giants, and mythical creatures clash. Odin battled Fenrir, Thor faced Jörmungandr, and Freyr confronted the fire giant Surtr. The world was consumed by fire and water, heralding an end but also paving the way for renewal with a new generation of gods and the rebirth of the world.
Norse tales resonate deeply with themes of fate, heroism, deception, and cosmic renewal. Their narratives, rich in symbolism and complexity, have inspired countless adaptations, from Wagner’s operas to modern movies and literature, ensuring that the Viking spirit lives on in the collective consciousness.
Conclusion
Norse mythology, with its intricate tales and multifaceted gods, remains an indelible part of world literature, a mirror to the Viking soul, and a testament to humanity’s eternal quest for understanding and meaning. It reminds us of the transient nature of life, the inevitability of fate, and the timeless tales of valor and sacrifice.
by Derek Murphy | Myth & Folklore
Introduction: The Tragic Backdrop
Antigone is one of my favorite stories from Greek mythology and inspired my PhD Thesis: it’s about one young woman’s rebellion against arbitrary tyranny, and all the drama and pathos that ensues (ending up with her buried alive as a bride of death…)
Antigone is the third play in a trilogy written by Sophocles, coming after “Oedipus Rex” and “Oedipus at Colonus.” It delves into the conflicts of individual duty versus law and personal moral code versus the dictates of society.
The Prelude to Tragedy
Following the deaths of her brothers Eteocles and Polynices, who killed each other in a battle for Thebes, Antigone faces a moral dilemma. Creon, the king of Thebes, decrees that Eteocles will be honored with proper burial rites, but Polynices, deemed a traitor, shall be left unburied. This act is a severe punishment, as it condemns his spirit to unrest.
Antigone’s Act of Defiance
Believing in her familial duty and the unwritten laws of the gods, Antigone decides to bury Polynices, defying King Creon’s decree. When caught, she does not deny her actions, asserting her moral obligation.
Creon’s Inflexibility
Creon, determined to uphold the law and assert his authority, refuses to relent, even when his son Haemon, who is betrothed to Antigone, pleads on her behalf. Creon believes that yielding would undermine his position as king.
The Gripping Climax
As punishment, Antigone is entombed alive in a cave. In the cave, she takes her life. This act leads to a chain of tragic events: Haemon, finding her dead, kills himself, and his mother (and Creon’s wife), Eurydice, takes her life out of grief.
The Deeper Meaning and Interpretation
Antigone raises profound questions about loyalty, honor, and the human duty to stand against injustice. The play forces readers to ponder whether moral duty should override civil law and the consequences of absolute authority.
Quotes from “Antigone”
“I was born to join in love, not hate.” A testament to Antigone’s unwavering belief in familial love and duty.
“There is no happiness where there is no wisdom.” A reminder of the importance of understanding and insight in leadership.
Legacy in Literature and Popular Culture
“Antigone” has inspired countless adaptations, including plays, movies, and novels. Its themes of resistance against oppressive authority, the ethics of leadership, and individual morality versus the state have resonated through time, making it relevant even today.
FAQs
- Why does Antigone choose to bury Polynices despite the decree? She believes in the unwritten laws of the gods and feels it’s her moral and familial duty to ensure her brother receives proper burial rites.
- What is the central theme of “Antigone”? The play primarily grapples with the conflict between personal duty and the laws of the state, as well as the consequences of inflexible authority.
- How does the story reflect on the nature of tragedy? “Antigone” exemplifies the essence of Greek tragedy, where characters’ fates are sealed by their inherent flaws, decisions, and the inescapable will of the gods.
Conclusion
“Antigone” remains a timeless work, exploring the boundaries of duty, love, and moral integrity. As readers or viewers witness the unfolding tragedy of steadfast Antigone against the unbending Creon, they are forced to confront their beliefs about justice, leadership, and moral duty.
PS I wrote a short Antigone retelling, as a scifi space story, and it’s pretty great – get it for free on my homepage.
by Derek Murphy | Myth & Folklore
Introduction: The Enigma of Beauty and Love
The story of Eros and Psyche is an age-old tale that explores the transformative power of love. Eros, the god of desire and love, falls deeply in love with a mortal woman named Psyche, whose beauty transcends human understanding.
The Jealousy of Aphrodite
Psyche’s unmatched beauty leads to an unexpected consequence: she draws attention away from Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. The jealous goddess sends her son Eros to make Psyche fall in love with the most despicable of men. However, upon seeing her, Eros is so captivated that he accidentally pricks himself with his own arrow, making him fall in love with Psyche.
The Invisible Lover
Eros keeps his identity secret, meeting Psyche only under the cover of night. He warns her never to attempt to see his face. However, Psyche’s sisters, driven by curiosity and jealousy, persuade her to sneak a glance. Using a lamp and a knife, thinking she might have to defend herself against a monster, Psyche looks upon Eros and is astounded by his beauty. A drop of oil from the lamp falls on Eros, waking him. Feeling betrayed, he flees.
Psyche’s Trials
Desperate to win back Eros’s love, Psyche undertakes a series of impossible tasks set by Aphrodite, including:
- Sorting a huge pile of mixed grains overnight.
- Fetching the golden fleece from aggressive sheep.
- Collecting water from a stream guarded by serpents.
- Journeying to the underworld to fetch a box of beauty cream for Aphrodite.
The Climax: Realization and Redemption
With assistance from ants, reeds, and even the god Pan, Psyche completes the tasks. However, overcome by curiosity again, she opens the box from the underworld and falls into a deathlike sleep. Eros, who has forgiven Psyche and has been secretly helping her all along, awakens her with a kiss.
A Love Eternal: The Divine Union
Zeus, the king of gods, moved by their love story, grants Psyche immortality. She and Eros are married in a grand ceremony attended by all the gods. From their union, a daughter, Hedone (meaning “pleasure”), is born.
7. Significance and Interpretation
This myth is more than a love story. It delves into the human soul’s journey (with “Psyche” meaning “soul” in Greek) towards eternal love and happiness. The trials faced by Psyche are emblematic of the hurdles one might face in life, emphasizing resilience, trust, and the transformative power of love.
Memorable Passages from “Metamorphoses” by Ovid
“Love cannot dwell with Suspicion.” An apt reminder of the trust essential in any relationship.
“The Fire of Love is blown by Movement, and dies away when it sees itself betrayed.” Highlighting the passionate nature of love and the fragility of trust.
Legacy in Literature and Popular Culture
From classical art to Renaissance paintings, the story has inspired countless works over centuries. It has been retold in novels, plays, ballets, and operas. The tale is a testament to the enduring and universal appeal of love stories.
FAQs
- Is Psyche the personification of the human soul? Yes, the name “Psyche” translates to “soul” in Greek, emphasizing the allegorical elements of the myth.
- What can we learn from the tale of Eros and Psyche? The story underlines the importance of trust, resilience, and the transformative power of love. It’s a tale of redemption, self-realization, and the eventual union of the mortal and the divine.
- Where can I read the full story of Eros and Psyche? One of the most detailed versions can be found in “Metamorphoses” by the Roman poet Ovid.
Conclusion
The myth of Eros and Psyche remains a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of love. It embodies the essence of passion, betrayal, challenges, redemption, and ultimately, the union of two souls, making it a tale that resonates with readers even today.
PS – the myth of psyche and eros is the inspiration for my alien-dystopian novel, with a retelling of the crucial elements of the story. It’s like greek myth meets Falling Stars or the 5th Wave.
by Derek Murphy | Myth & Folklore
The tale of Orpheus and Eurydice, rich with emotion and allegory, is one of the most poignant myths from ancient Greece. It speaks to themes of love, tragedy, faith, and the limits of human capability. Its resonance over millennia is testament to its profound insights into the human experience.
The History
The story of Orpheus and Eurydice finds its roots in ancient Greek mythology. Various renditions exist, each offering a slightly different perspective, but the core elements of the narrative remain consistent. The myth was a popular subject for ancient playwrights, poets, and later, Roman authors.
Summary of the Myth
Orpheus, celebrated for his unparalleled skill with the lyre, falls deeply in love with the beautiful nymph, Eurydice. Shortly after their wedding, Eurydice tragically dies from a snakebite. Unable to bear his grief, Orpheus ventures to the Underworld to retrieve her. With his enchanting music, he charms Hades and Persephone, the rulers of the Underworld, who agree to release Eurydice on one condition: Orpheus must not look back at her until they reach the surface. However, just before they emerge, doubt plagues Orpheus. He looks back, only to see Eurydice vanish forever.
Meaning and Interpretation
This myth symbolizes the human struggle with faith, patience, and the boundaries of love. It emphasizes the tragic flaw of doubt and the consequences of impulsive actions.
Existential Interpretation: Some see the story as an exploration of man’s inability to overcome the finality of death, despite his most ardent desires and profound abilities.
Influence in Literature
The story of Orpheus and Eurydice has inspired countless literary works:
- Ovid’s “Metamorphoses”: A detailed retelling of the story, capturing its tragic essence.
- Jean Cocteau’s “Orphée”: A modern interpretation set against the backdrop of the post-WWII era.
Ovid’s “Metamorphoses” offers a rich retelling of many myths, including the tale of Orpheus and Eurydice. Here are some of the most poignant passages related to their story, as translated by Sir Samuel Garth:
- On the power of Orpheus’s music: “His song had influence o’er the Stygian crew, Charon, with wonder, let him pass the flood; The stubborn wheel stood still with listening mood.”
- On the conditions of Eurydice’s release: “All the conditions, by my spouse imposed, Exact to stand by, do not break the bond, And cast a look on your Eurydice; The direful consequence of it you know.”
- The tragic moment of loss: “He gave them way, and, as they passed along, Looked back on Eurydice: his rashness cost Her life a second time…She well deserved of him this last relief, Who, for his love, had twice descended there. The Gods decreed, nor he refused to wed, This equal mistress of his bed and song.”
These passages offer a glimpse into Ovid’s eloquent style, his deep understanding of human emotions, and his ability to bring ancient myths to life. Remember, however, that “Metamorphoses” is an expansive work, so there are many more passages beyond this tale that dive deep into a myriad of stories from Greek and Roman mythology.
Different Versions
While the primary elements of the narrative remain intact, several versions offer slight variations:
- Some versions emphasize Orpheus’s grief leading to his final, tragic mistake.
- Others focus on the enchanting power of his music.
Quotes from Original Texts
References to Orpheus and Eurydice can be found in various ancient texts:
- Ovid’s “Metamorphoses”: “…he looked back in longing for his Eurydice, then back she slipped.”
- Virgil’s “Georgics”: “Even as Orpheus… looked back in the very threshold of light; whereby the whole deed was annulled.”
References in Popular Culture and Media
The myth’s universal themes make it a favorite in contemporary culture:
- Music: Acts like Arcade Fire and Anais Mitchell have written songs inspired by the tale.
- Film: Films like “Black Orpheus” present a modern twist on the story.
- Theatre: “Hadestown,” a Broadway musical, offers a unique adaptation set during the Great Depression.
- Art: Numerous paintings and sculptures depict the poignant moments from the myth.
FAQs
Q: Why did Orpheus look back? A: Doubt and fear overcame Orpheus, leading him to look back, causing the permanent separation from his love.
Q: How did Eurydice die? A: Eurydice died from a snakebite shortly after her marriage to Orpheus.
Q: What happened to Orpheus after Eurydice’s second death? A: Heartbroken, Orpheus roamed, playing sorrowful music. He met a tragic end, being torn apart by Maenads, frenzied female followers of Dionysus.
Q: Why is the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice so popular? A: The story’s profound themes of love, loss, faith, and consequence resonate deeply with human experiences.
Conclusion
The tale of Orpheus and Eurydice transcends time, capturing the essence of love’s power and fragility. Whether explored through ancient texts, modern interpretations, or pop culture, the myth remains a touching reminder of love’s triumphs and tragedies. It beckons readers and audiences to reflect on their actions, the nature of love, and the profound pain of loss.
PS. This legend inspired my music-based dark fantasy novel “Orpheum” – and we even visited Bulgarian and Greek ruins and places where the legends were born thousands of years ago!
by Derek Murphy | Myth & Folklore
The Myth of Sisyphus, a tale from ancient Greek mythology, has reverberated through time, finding relevance in literature, philosophy, and popular culture. Its profound themes of persistence, absurdity, and the human spirit’s indefatigability make it a story worth examining closely.
The History
The story of Sisyphus originates from ancient Greece. As with many myths, it was orally transmitted before being recorded in various literary works, most notably by the ancient Greek playwrights and later, Roman authors.
Summary of the Myth
Sisyphus, the cunning king of Corinth, was infamous for his trickery and deceit. Due to various transgressions, including his audacity to cheat death twice, Sisyphus incurred the wrath of the gods. As a punishment, he was condemned to push a heavy boulder up a steep hill in the Underworld for eternity. Every time he neared the top, the boulder would roll back down, forcing him to begin the task anew.
Meaning and Interpretation
The myth symbolizes the human spirit’s perpetual endeavor against forces that push us down. It’s an allegory of the struggles we face in life, where our efforts often seem in vain.
Existential Interpretation: The French philosopher Albert Camus saw Sisyphus’s endless task as a metaphor for the individual’s persistent search for meaning in an indifferent universe. To Camus, Sisyphus represents the absurd hero, one who finds value in the struggle itself.
Influence in Literature
Albert Camus’s essay, “The Myth of Sisyphus,” is one of the most prominent literary works influenced by the myth. In it, Camus delves into the philosophical implications of Sisyphus’s plight, emphasizing the human need to find meaning in a meaningless universe.
Different Versions
While the core of the story remains consistent, there have been various retellings over millennia. Some versions emphasize Sisyphus’s cunning, while others highlight his punishment’s harshness.
Quotes from Original Texts
While the tale of Sisyphus is ancient and fragmented in its recording, several key references exist:
- Homer’s “Iliad”: “…Sisyphus in torment, pushing his enormous boulder with both hands.”
- Ovid’s “Metamorphoses”: “…and Sisyphus ceaselessly pushing his rock uphill.”
References in Popular Culture and Media
The myth has found its way into many contemporary works:
- Music: Bands such as The Police and Iron Maiden have songs inspired by Sisyphus.
- Film: The idea of repeated, seemingly futile tasks echoes in movies like “Groundhog Day.”
- Television: Shows like “The Simpsons” and “Xena: Warrior Princess” have referenced Sisyphus’s eternal struggle.
- Art: Various artists have portrayed Sisyphus’s plight, emphasizing different aspects of the story.
FAQs
Q: Why was Sisyphus punished? A: Sisyphus was punished for his deceit and trickery, notably for cheating death twice.
Q: What does the boulder symbolize? A: The boulder represents life’s challenges and the often repetitive nature of human endeavors.
Q: How is the myth relevant today? A: It symbolizes resilience, the absurdity of existence, and the continuous human struggle against adversities.
Q: Did Sisyphus ever escape his fate? A: In the original myth, Sisyphus is eternally condemned. However, various retellings and interpretations might offer alternative endings or perspectives.
Conclusion
The Myth of Sisyphus remains a powerful allegory that resonates with the human experience. Its themes of endurance, the search for meaning, and the essence of existence continue to inspire and challenge us, making it a timeless tale. Whether seen through the lens of philosophy, literature, or popular culture, Sisyphus’s story compels us to reflect on the nature of our own journeys.
PS. In my 5 book YA fantasy based on Greek mythology, I cover a ton of gods and goddesses but Sisyphus never makes an appearance as an actual character.
