Imaginary Worlds Seeing Ourselves in Norse Myths
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Nov 8, 2023 
Guests Ada Palmer and Carolyne Larrington discuss the impact of Norse mythology on modern fantasy, the misinterpretation of Norse myths, the portrayal of Thor in pop culture, and the relevance of Viking values in our world. They also explore the depiction of Norse mythology in films and the reflection of fragility in ancient stories.
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Reimagining Hell as Disabled Teen
- The character Hell in modern adaptations is reimagined as a disabled teenager, humanizing death's portrayal in Norse myths.
- Death is often gendered female, and Hell's desire for heroes illustrates complex mythological gender roles.
Complex and Lost Thor Myths
- Mythological Thor is more complex than pop culture's brawny hero; he protects humans and shows comic vulnerabilities.
- Many original Viking tales about Thor are lost, implying his character was richer than current records show.
Odin: Wise, Sacrificing, Dynamic
- Odin is a culture hero embodying wisdom, war, and sacrifice, gaining runic knowledge through self-sacrifice.
- Modern portrayals often show him as older and less dynamic, contrasting his energetic mythological role.