Visions of The Gods

timelessmyths

Norse Mythology is an interesting contrast between our complex modern world and man's simplier distant past. I find comfort in reading tales of simpler times when man and nature were one. When man struggled for survival, with the help or hindrance of the Gods and his own natural abilities. Man could survive in the wilderness through self-reliance, physical strength, and his keen intellect. The common man could solve his problems and everything had a simple explanation. Through oral tradition, the Gods spread their stories and lessons to live by. The world and all its problems had answers and God's ruled that mystical place.

"Norse or Scandinavian Mythology comprises the pre-Christian legends and religious beliefs of the Scandinavian people and Northern Germanic tribes" ("Norse Mythology" 1). I discovered my cultural heritage through the words printed on ancient texts. My imagination takes me back to a time where I can find my roots. The Aesir were "The Collective name for the Principal Race of Norse Gods" ("Aesir" 1). who ruled over mortal men ("Aesir" 1). The Gods and Godesses possessed personal attributes men and women find appealing: Intelligence, beauty, strength, courage, honor, knowledge of right and wrong, and want of the best things in life. And, at the same time, they connect us to our past. Their adventures create anticipation and excitement and their vulnerabilities make them all too real. Their feet of clay resonate with us in our own struggles with survival in this complex modern world.

"Aesir." Encyclopedia Mythica. 2010. Encyclopedia Mythica Online.
29 Oct. 2010 <http://www.pantheon.org/articles/a/aesir.html>.

http://www.timelessmyths.com/norse/gallery/helm1.gif

"Norse Mythology." New World Encyclopedia. Retrieve 21:37, October 30, 2010 from http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/norse-mythology?oldid=687165>.