in progress
This is adecription of the bridge Bifröst, connecting the worlds of the gods and men.
text
Gylf ch. 13b
13b. Bifröst
Þá mælti Gangleri: "Hver ... | Then spoke Gangleri: 'What wa... |
[status: unverified copy]
commentary
context
Gylfaginning, 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, Skaldskápamáland Háttatal, all functioning together as a greater work and guide for the aspiring medieval poet and storyteller.
commentary
Bifröst is described as being the bridge between Miðgarðr and Ásgarðr, created by the gods and recognised with the image of a rainbow, as seen in Grínmismál 44, Fáfnismál 15 and Gylfaginning 12, 40. It is said to be guarded by Heimdallr at his home in Himinbjörg where the bridge connects the world to the gods dwellings in the sky. It is also known as Ásbrú, the name which indicates its function as the “bridge of the gods,” used by them each day as they ride to Urðarbrunnur to hold their court. Etymologically, the name can be translated to “the swaying road to heaven” (ON bifa: EN shake).
Simek, Rudolf (2007), Transl: Angela Hall. Dictionary of Northern Mythology. Cambridge: D.S. Brewer. pp. 36-37
Steinsland, Gro (2005), Norrøn Religion. Myter, Riter, Samfunn. Oslo: Pax Forlag. pp. 221
(Contributed by Liv Marit Aurdal.)
tags
Main text: Gylfaginning
Attributes: Mythological Battle Horse Landscape Giants River Æsir Creation Cosmology Ragnarök
Named things:
Text sections: SnSt, Gylf ch. 13b