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What are Elves?

Fortress of Lugh・23 minutes read

Elves are ancient beings in Norse mythology with origins dating back thousands of years, associated with wisdom and guardianship. They were connected to light, gods like Freyr, and themes of knowledge, craft, immortality, and fertility, differing from later Christian beliefs associating them with evil spirits.

Insights

  • Elves in Norse mythology were powerful and protective beings associated with wisdom and guardianship, distinct from later Christian beliefs portraying them as evil spirits causing sickness.
  • The intricate connections between elves, light, gods, and craftsmanship in Norse mythology highlight their role as knowledgeable and skilled entities, intertwined with themes of immortality, fertility, and the delicate balance between gods and elves.

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Recent questions

  • What is the origin of elves?

    Proto-Germanic entities with ancient Norse mythology roots.

  • How were elves portrayed in Norse mythology?

    As beings of light, knowledge, and guardianship.

  • What is the relationship between elves and dwarves in Norse mythology?

    Initially distinct beings with unique characteristics.

  • What role did elves play in Norse mythology?

    Connected to gods, light, and immortality.

  • How were elves perceived in different cultures?

    Varied from protective beings to potentially dangerous entities.

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Summary

00:00

Elves in Norse Mythology: Ancient Guardians and Craftsmen

  • Elves are ancient Germanic entities present in Norse mythology and all surviving Germanic languages, with their origins dating back at least 2,600 years.
  • The word "elf" has Proto-Germanic origins and is linked to names like Albion, meaning "white land," possibly due to the White Cliffs of Dover.
  • Elves were believed to be powerful and protective beings, as indicated by names like Elfgatar, Elvis, Alford, and Alfred, suggesting they were associated with wisdom and guardianship.
  • In Old English and Old High German, elves were not considered evil spirits, contrary to later Christian beliefs associating them with causing sickness through "elf shot."
  • Dwarves and elves were initially distinct beings, with dwarves being small and elves being human-sized or larger, as evidenced by the negative connotation of "oaf" originally meaning "elf child."
  • Elves were connected with light, with the sun being referred to as "Alfrodil" or "elf beam," and they were closely linked to the gods, particularly Freyr, who dwelled in the realm of Alfheimr.
  • Volund, a prominent elf figure in Norse mythology, was known for his craftsmanship and cunning, as seen in his myth involving King Nithath and his sons.
  • Elves were associated with knowledge and craft, as indicated in the poem "Odin's Raven Chant," where elves are described as understanding beings.
  • Thor's companions, Thalfi and Roskva, were originally understood to be elves, assisting Thor in his battles against the Jotnar, showcasing the elves' role in Norse mythology.
  • Elves were connected to immortality and fertility, with goddess Ithun, a child of elves, possessing apples that kept the gods youthful, hinting at the fine line between the Aesir and elves in Norse mythology.

17:46

Origins and Legends of Elves and Dwarves

  • Gaelic tales feature myths about the duine sidhe, described as bright beings with potential danger.
  • Geoffrey Chaucer likens male elves to incubi, demons from Christian lore.
  • Outcast angels in 13th century South England legends are associated with elves in the woods and towns.
  • The early image of elves was akin to demons in Christian beliefs, possibly influenced by Greek diamonds.
  • Greek diamonds were non-corporeal beings, not considered evil, serving as guardians and guides.
  • Elves may have originated similarly to Greek diamonds, possibly akin to guardian angels.
  • Volund's tale suggests elves may reward good men and punish the bad severely.
  • Elves are sent to dwell in Alfheim and the third heaven, possibly the same place, safe from Ragnarok.
  • Gimle is a dwelling place for honored dead spirits, similar to Vithblain, possibly of Indo-European origin.
  • Elves and dwarves share similarities but have distinct appearances, dwellings, and connections to the sun and gods.
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