Why did everyone like Baldur?
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Everyone liked Baldur because of his exceptional beauty, wisdom, and peaceful nature, making him a beloved figure in Norse mythology. His kindness, gentleness, and eloquence also contributed to his popularity, as he was described as the mild and good god, almost too good for this world, and the only myth concerning him is actually the one about his death.
Introduction to Baldur
Who is Baldur?
Baldur, also known as Baldr or Balder, is a god in Norse mythology, primarily associated with light and beauty. He is the son of Odin and Frigg and the brother of Thor, Hodur, and other gods.
What made Baldur special?
Baldur’s attractiveness was so great that light shines all around him, and he was loved by everyone in Asgard. His friendliness, gentleness, and wisdom made him a unique and special individual in the Norse mythology.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was special about Balder?
Baldur is beloved by his fellow gods for his beauty, wisdom, and peaceful nature. He is described as a fair, kind, and handsome god, whose beauty was unparalleled.
Is Baldur the nicest god?
Baldur is Odin’s son, and many speak highly of the beautiful, wise, and eloquent, mild and helpful Baldur. Snorri Sturluson describes Baldur as the mild and good god, almost too good for this world.
Why is the death of Balder so famous?
The death of Balder is one of the most significant events in Viking lore. His death causes the final rift between the Norse gods Loki and Odin. Balder’s death sets into motion the events of Ragnarok and the Viking god’s return from Hel after Ragnarok.
Is Baldur a good guy in Norse mythology?
The second son of Odin is Baldr, and good things are to be said of him. He is best, and all praise him; he is so fair of feature, and so bright, that light shines from him.
Why does Loki hate Balder?
Loki wanted Baldr dead because he was perfect. Absolutely perfect. And Loki didn’t like that. And so Loki manipulated Baldr’s blind brother, Höðr, into throwing a dart of mistletoe, (Baldr’s only weakness), at Baldr and it killed him.
What was Baldur’s weakness?
Baldur is beloved by all. He is cheery and kind. He is still made invulnerable with only a weakness to mistletoe. His death in Norse myth marks the beginning of Ragnarok.
Who didn’t cry for Baldur?
After Balder’s funeral, the giantess Thökk, probably Loki in disguise, refused to weep the tears that would release Balder from death.
What did Odin whisper to Baldur?
The myth itself does not say, but some speculate that Odin told his son that he (Balder) would survive the upcoming Ragnarok. Some say this could have been a prophecy from the Well of Knowledge, where Odin paid the price with the loss of his eye.
Who is Odin’s favorite son?
Balder, Old Norse Baldr, in Norse mythology, the son of the chief god Odin and his wife Frigg. Beautiful and just, he was the favourite of the gods.
What is Balder the Norse god weakness?
Most legends about him concern his death. Icelandic stories tell how the gods amused themselves by throwing objects at him, knowing that he was immune from harm. The blind god Höd, deceived by the evil Loki, killed Balder by hurling mistletoe, the only thing that could hurt him.
Who is the best-looking Norse god?
Balder. Another son of Odin and half-brother to Thor, Balder was the god of light and purity. He was described as a fair, kind, and handsome god, whose beauty was unparalleled.
Who is stronger Baldur vs Thor?
In terms of Norse mythology, both of the Aesir gods, Thor and Baldr, are usually portrayed as equally powerful. However, the historical sources such as the Prose Edda and the Poetic Edda often focus on Balder’s death at the hands of Loki.
Was Loki jealous of Balder?
The cunning Loki was jealous of Balder, and convinced Balder’s blind brother to shoot Balder with the plant, in order to honor him.
Why was Baldur immune to pain?
We find out that Freya is the ex-wife of Odin and the mother of Baldur. Baldur is invincible because Freya, having seen a prophecy that Baldur will one day die a needless death, put a spell on him that makes him impervious to pain, or any other sensation.
Why is Baldur immune to harm?
Thereupon the gods held a council and resolved to make Balder secure against every danger. So the goddess Frigg took an oath from fire and water, iron and all metals, stones and earth, from trees, sicknesses and poisons, and from all four-footed beasts, birds and creeping things, that they would not hurt Balder.
What plant killed Baldr?
Loki put a mistletoe twig in the hands of his blind brother, Hother, and encouraged him to get involved in the excitement. Not able to see the plant Loki had given him, Hother threw the twig at Balder, killing him instantly. The gods stood in stunned silence, then wept fiercely for their loss.
What is the only thing that can hurt Baldur?
The mistletoe struck Balder and pierced him through and through, and he fell down dead. For a while the gods stood speechless, then they lifted up their voices and wept bitterly.” The story goes on to describe the burning of Balder’s body in a funeral pyre on his ship.
Who avenged Balder’s death?
Avenging Balder’s Death. When asked who will avenge Balder, she replied that it would be his other son, Vali, along with a woman named Rind. Furthermore, she added, Vali would avenge Balder when he is only one night old. He will neither comb his hair nor wash his hands till he puts Balder’s killer on the funeral pyre.