What Did Vikings Call Elves in Norse Mythology?

Discover how Vikings referred to elves in Norse mythology and the meanings behind light and dark elves.

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In Norse mythology, Vikings referred to elves as 'álfar'. These beings were considered to be supernatural and had different types, such as the light elves (Ljósálfar), associated with goodness and light, and the dark elves (Dökkálfar), associated with the earth and sometimes seen as more malevolent.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What are the types of elves in Norse mythology? In Norse mythology, elves are generally categorized into light elves (Ljósálfar) and dark elves (Dökkálfar), with distinct characteristics.
  2. Did Vikings believe in elves? Yes, Vikings believed in elves as supernatural beings with magical qualities, often associated with nature and the world around them.
  3. What role did elves play in Viking culture? Elves in Viking culture were often seen as protectors, and their existence was woven into everyday rituals and belief systems.