Description
A Valkyrie (from Old Norse valkyrja, meaning “chooser of the slain”) is a mythological female figure in Norse mythology who serves the god Odin.
Role:
- Valkyries ride over battlefields, choosing the bravest fallen warriors.
- They bring these warriors to Valhalla, Odin’s majestic hall, where they prepare for Ragnarök (the final apocalyptic battle).
Appearance:
- Depicted as beautiful, armored warrior women
- Often ride winged horses
- Wield spears, swords, and shields
- Some stories give them swan-like cloaks that allow them to fly
- Associated with storm clouds, fate, and death in battle
Symbolism:
- Control the fate of warriors in battle.
- Symbolize death, honor, fate, and the divine feminine warrior spirit.
- Can bring victory, but also doom.
Famous Valkyries:
- Brunhilde — a central figure in Norse sagas and Wagner’s Ring Cycle.
- Others: Sigrún, Göndul, Skuld, Hrist, Mist, Róta — named in the Poetic Edda.
