Carolyne Larrington

In this engaging discussion, Professor Carolyne Larrington, an expert in Old Norse literature, dives deep into the complexities of Odin, the multifaceted god of wisdom and war. She recounts Odin's quest for knowledge, including his self-sacrifice on Yggdrasil to acquire runes. The tragic tale of Baldr unfolds, highlighting Frigg's fatal oversight. Larrington weaves in tales of Loki's shapeshifting antics and the symbolism of Odin's ravens, creating captivating insights into how these myths mirror human nature and societal values.

Carolyne Larrington, a renowned medievalist and expert on Norse literature, dives deep into the myths of Thor and Loki. She explores Thor's dual nature as both a powerful and ridiculed deity and unpacks Loki’s complex identity as more than just a trickster. The discussion unveils their dynamic as a brains and brawn duo, the origins of Thor’s iconic hammer, and the moral ambiguity surrounding Loki's actions. Listeners will enjoy insights on their shifting relationships and contemporary interpretations of these legendary figures.

In this engaging discussion, Carolyne Larrington, a scholar of Old Norse literature, dives into the enchanting world of Norse mythology. She unpacks the role of Valkyries as fierce choosers of the slain and explores Valhalla as Odin's hall for warriors. Larrington contrasts heroic and unheroic deaths, revealing how these beliefs inspired Viking ideals of valor and raiding. She also sheds light on the societal reflections in these myths, including the portrayal of women and the lasting influence of Norse tales in modern culture.