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ASSIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS:
In the back of your book, you will find scholarly notes to Myth 2. Discuss one point about the Vanir and the Aesir that Crossley-Holland makes (concerning their conflict, or any distinctions between the two groups. Cite it, and discuss it. (at least 1 point is discussed). Then cite and discuss one point Crossley-Holland makes about Gullveig. (Myth 2: at least 2 points discussed total). In Myth 7, discuss one point Crossley-Holland makes about Tyr and one point that he makes about Hel. Cite and discuss each point: how does this information shed light on the Norse myths? (Myth 7: 2 points discussed: 1 concerning Tyr and 1 concerning Hel) In Myth 10, discuss at least one point Crossley-Holland makes about Odin’s spear Gungnir that you find interesting. Cite the page and discuss your findings. (Myth 10: 1 point discussed) In the notes to Myth 29, what information does the author give us concerning Balder as a fertility figure? He links Balder to the gods of the near east. What are some common characteristics of these gods, according to the note? Discuss two points you found interesting. Cite as needed. (Myth 29: 2 points discussed) In the notes to the last myth (Ragnarok), cite one point you find illuminating. Discuss one point and consider how the information sheds light on the myth itself. (1 point discussed) total number of points from Crossley-Holland for items 1-5= 8 points total
HOW TO WORK ON THIS ASSIGNMENT (EXAMPLE ESSAY / DRAFT)
In this essay, I will be exploring Norse mythology through the scholarly notes provided by Crossley-Holland in his book. The author provides insights and interpretations on various myths and characters, shedding light on their significance and how they fit into the larger Norse pantheon. In this essay, I will be discussing 8 key points from Crossley-Holland regarding the myths of Vanir and Aesir, Gullveig, Tyr and Hel, Odin’s spear Gungnir, Balder as a fertility figure, and Ragnarok.
Myth 2: Vanir and Aesir
One of the key points that Crossley-Holland makes about the Vanir and Aesir is that they are two different groups of gods with different origins and characteristics (p. 24). According to the author, the Vanir are associated with fertility, magic, and the earth, while the Aesir are associated with war, order, and the sky (p. 24). This distinction helps to understand the conflict between the two groups and how they eventually come together in a peaceful alliance.
Another point made by Crossley-Holland regarding Myth 2 is about the character of Gullveig. According to the author, Gullveig is a mysterious figure who is burned three times but continues to return, representing the cyclical nature of life and death (p. 25). This interpretation adds depth to the character of Gullveig and highlights the idea of rebirth and renewal in Norse mythology.
Myth 7: Tyr and Hel
In Myth 7, Crossley-Holland sheds light on two important characters: Tyr and Hel. Regarding Tyr, the author points out that he is known as the god of justice and law (p. 50). This information helps to understand the role that Tyr plays in Norse mythology and the importance placed on justice and order.
Regarding Hel, Crossley-Holland notes that she is the goddess of the underworld and is associated with death and decay (p. 50). This interpretation adds depth to the character of Hel and highlights the idea of death and the afterlife in Norse mythology.
Myth 10: Odin’s Spear Gungnir
One interesting point that Crossley-Holland makes about Odin’s spear Gungnir is that it is said to never miss its mark (p. 64). This idea adds to the mythology surrounding Odin as a powerful and skilled warrior, as well as the power of his weapon.
Myth 29: Balder as a Fertility Figure
In the notes to Myth 29, Crossley-Holland provides information about Balder as a fertility figure. The author links Balder to the gods of the near east and notes that they are often associated with the cycles of the seasons and agricultural fertility (p. 123). This interpretation highlights the idea of fertility and the cyclical nature of life in Norse mythology.
Two points that I found particularly interesting about Balder as a fertility figure were the links to the near eastern gods and the idea of agricultural fertility. This information sheds light on the interconnectedness of different mythologies and the importance placed on agriculture and fertility in Norse society.
Myth: Ragnarok
In the notes to the last myth, Ragnarok, one illuminating point that Crossley-Holland makes is that Ragnarok is not just the end of the world, but a resetting of the world, allowing for a new beginning (p. 150). This interpretation highlights the idea of renewal and the cyclical nature of life and death in Norse mythology.
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