The Messed Up Origins™ of Baldur, the Beautiful | Norse Mythology Explained - Jon Solo

Jon Solo・2 minutes read

John Solo simplifies complex mythologies worldwide focusing on Norse mythology in this episode, specifically Balder's tragic death caused by Loki. The episode also explores the multifaceted nature of Norse gods, highlighting unique traits, and concludes with the prediction of Balder's return after Ragnarok for a new age of peace influenced by Christianity.

Insights

  • John Solo simplifies complex mythologies worldwide, focusing on Norse mythology in this episode, particularly exploring the lesser-known god Balder and his tragic death caused by Loki, showcasing the multifaceted nature of Norse gods and their intricate relationships.
  • The depiction of Balder varies between violent portrayals in modern media like God of War and traditional myths describing him as kind and radiant, highlighting the nuanced interpretations of mythological figures and the enduring impact of Balder's story, including his potential resurrection after Ragnarok as foretold in the poem "Valuspa."

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Recent questions

  • Who is Balder in Norse mythology?

    Balder is a Norse god associated with love, joy, and peace, known for his tragic death caused by Loki.

  • What led to Balder's tragic death?

    Balder's tragic death was caused by Loki's deceit with mistletoe, as Frigg had extracted promises from all elements to ensure his safety except mistletoe.

  • How did the Norse gods punish Loki?

    The Norse gods punished Loki by transforming his son Vali into a wolf, making him kill his brother Narfy, binding Loki with Narfy's intestines to rocks, and hanging a serpent above him to drip venom on his face.

  • What is the significance of Balder's death in Norse mythology?

    Balder's death in Norse mythology marks a pivotal event that triggers a series of consequential actions, including failed attempts to bring him back from the dead and the punishment of Loki by the gods.

  • How is Balder portrayed in different mythologies?

    Balder is depicted differently in various mythologies, with traditional myths describing him as kind and radiant, while God of War portrays him as violent.

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Summary

00:00

"Decoding Norse Mythology: Balder's Tragic Tale"

  • John Solo presents mythology in an understandable manner by simplifying complex mythologies worldwide.
  • Norse mythology is the focus of this episode, with Loki being the most requested god to learn about.
  • Balder, a lesser-known Norse god, is the main subject of this episode due to his obscurity in popular culture.
  • Balder is depicted differently in mythologies, with God of War portraying him as violent, while traditional myths describe him as kind and radiant.
  • The episode delves into Balder's tragic death caused by Loki, a pivotal event in Norse mythology.
  • NordVPN sponsors the video, emphasizing the importance of protecting personal data online.
  • Norse gods are multifaceted beings with unique traits, not confined to a single domain, unlike Greek gods.
  • Balder, son of Odin and Frigg, is described as wise, beautiful, and associated with love, joy, and peace.
  • Frigg ensures Balder's safety from harm by extracting promises from all elements except mistletoe, leading to his tragic death.
  • Balder's death, caused by Loki's deceit with mistletoe, results in a series of events including a failed attempt to bring him back from the dead.

12:52

Loki's Insults Lead to Divine Punishment

  • Loki attends dinner with the gods, gets drunk, kills a serving boy, and engages in a trading of insults called flighting, common in Norse culture.
  • Highlights of the insult exchange include Loki calling Bragi a coward, Frey a derogatory term, and telling Tyr he could have had his wife.
  • Frigg intervenes, warning Loki that if Balder were present, he would not survive, referencing a traditional, fierce warrior version of Balder.
  • Loki faces punishment for killing Balder and insulting the gods, hiding in a cabin but eventually being caught by Thor.
  • The gods punish Loki by transforming his son Vali into a wolf, making him kill his brother Narfy, binding Loki with Narfy's intestines to rocks, and hanging a serpent above him to drip venom on his face.
  • The poem "Valuspa" in the Poetic Edda mentions Baldur's death by Loki but also predicts his return after Ragnarok, possibly symbolizing a new age of peace influenced by Christianity.
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