Where Do Normal Vikings Go After Death If Not Valhalla?

Discover the afterlife beliefs of normal Vikings and the realm of Hel, a neutral place for those who died of natural causes.

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Normal Vikings who did not die in battle were believed to go to Hel, a realm overseen by the goddess Hel. Unlike Valhalla, Hel was a place for those who died of natural causes or illness. This realm was seen as a neutral place, neither a reward nor punishment.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is Hel in Norse mythology? Hel is the realm in Norse mythology where those who died of natural causes or illness go, ruled by the goddess Hel.
  2. How did Vikings view death in battle? Vikings who died in battle were believed to go to Valhalla, a reward for their martial prowess and courage.
  3. What distinguishes Hel from Valhalla? Hel is a neutral afterlife for those who died from illness or accidents, while Valhalla is a glorious hall for fallen warriors.
  4. Do Vikings have varying beliefs about the afterlife? Yes, Viking beliefs varied depending on circumstances of death, with different realms in the afterlife for different fates.