in progress

text

Skm ch. 43b

43b. Creations of the Dwarves

[status: unverified copy]

commentary

context

Skáldskaparmál, which is part of Snorra Edda, was composed in Iceland in the 13th century, and holds the stories of many of the Pre-Christian myths of northern Europe. It is believed to have been composed by the Icelander Snorri Sturlusson. Snorra Edda consists of three separate parts, Gylfaginning, Skaldskápamál and Háttatal, all functioning together as a greater work and guide for the aspiring medieval poet and storyteller.

commentary

In Völuspá the Dwarves are listed as the world is created, in close relation to the creation of humans. They are a group of beings described as male and exceptional craftsmen and creators aiding the gods. They dwell underground, in caves, mountains and stone. According to Snorri (Gylgaginning 7), Dvarwes also have their place in the cosmological structures and maintains balance, as four dwarves carry the four corners of the sky, shaped by the skull of Ymir, and therefore named ON: Austri (EN: East), Vestri (EN: West), Norðri (EN: North) and Suðri (EN: South). In correspondence with surviving folk believes throughout the Nordics, Dwarves seems to be associated with beings who help, have abilities of creation and are relatable to humankind, not as beings of veneration but rather aid.

For more, see:

Terry Gunnell. (2004). Hof, halls, Goðar and dwarves : An examination of the ritual space in the pagan Icelandic hall. Hof, Halls, Goðar and Dwarves : An Examination of the Ritual Space in the Pagan Icelandic Hall., 3-36.

Steinsland, G. (2005), Norrøn Religion. Myter, Riter, Samfunn. Oslo: Pax Forlag. pp 115, 250-251.

Simek, R. (2007), Transl: Angela Hall. Dictionary of Northern Mythology. Cambridge: D.S. Brewer. pp. 67-69.

(Contributed by Liv Marit Aurdal.)

tags

Main text: Skáldskaparmál

Attributes: Hammer Spear Ritual Ship Gold Silver Vanir Loki causing trouble Fire Pig Ring Æsir Creation

Named things:

Text sections: SnSt, Skm ch. 43b