Gerðr - Goddess of Norse Mythology

Image of Gerðr, the Norse goddess of the earth.
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Depiction of Gerðr, the Norse goddess associated with the earth.

Gerðr (pronounced: "Gair-thur") also spelled Gerd or Gerth, is a goddess and jötunn in Norse mythology. Her name means "enclosed," and she is associated with the earth and fertility. Gerðr is most famously known as the wife of the god Freyr and is attested in various sources, including the Poetic Edda, Prose Edda, and Heimskringla.

Gerðr's name is derived from the Old Norse word gerða, which means to enclose or surround. This name suggests that Gerðr is associated with enclosed spaces, such as gardens or fields, and the idea of fertility. Her union with Freyr is similar to that of the giantess Skaði and the fertility god Njördr, pointing to a way of reconciling the forces of death and darkness with nature's regenerative powers.

The name "Gerðr" in Old Norse runes is written as:

ᚴᛖᚱᚦᛦ

According to the Poetic Edda, Freyr sees Gerðr from afar and falls in love with her beauty. He sends his servant Skírnir to Jötunheim to win her love, but Gerðr initially refuses. Skírnir then threatens Gerðr with various curses until she agrees to meet with Freyr. In the Prose Edda, there is no mention of threats, and Gerðr agrees to meet with Freyr after Skírnir's persuasive words.

Gerðr is described as the daughter of the jötunn Gymir and Aurboða. In Heimskringla, she is recorded as the wife of the Swedish king Frejo, and the couple is said to have founded the English dynasty. They have a son named Fjölnir, who becomes king after Frejo's death and continues his lineage.

Gerðr's home is described as being surrounded by flames, which suggests a connection to the Valkyries, who were often associated with fire and battle. Some scholars also interpret Gerðr's name as a reference to Valkyrie properties.

In art and literature, Gerðr has inspired numerous works, including the poem "Skírnismál" in the Poetic Edda and the play "Peer Gynt" by Henrik Ibsen. She is often depicted as a beautiful and powerful goddess, with long hair and a commanding presence.


Please note that the information provided about Gerðr and Norse mythology is complex and may be subject to interpretation and debate. The myths and stories of Norse mythology have evolved and been passed down through oral tradition and written accounts, and there may be variations in the way they are told and understood. This information should be used as a general reference and not as a definitive source on the subject.


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Other Norse Gods and Goddesses


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