Odin is a prominent figure in Norse mythology and a revered god in Nordic lore. He is referred to as the All Father, or the Alfather, and is the leader of Asgard.
Odin is known for his many sacrifices, including sacrificing one of his eyes for wisdom as he drank from the well of Mimir to gain knowledge and power. He also made the sacrifice to leave his son Baldur in the underworld.
Odin carries the spear, Gungnir which was made by the dwarves, Sons of Ivaldi from Svartalfheim. Although it looks like an ordinary spear, this weapon would sway and move, but always hit its target.
Odin is married to Frigga and has many children, although Baldur is Odin and Frigga's only child together. Odin has many other children, which include Thor, Vali, Vidar, Hodur, and more.
Odin is a god of wisdom and war. He is also known for having two companion animals - wolves Geri and Freki (ravenous and gluttonous). These wolves are said to guard Odin's seat in Asgard, the realm of the gods. They are also believed to accompany him on his journeys throughout the nine realms. Geri and Freki are usually depicted in art as large wolves with grey markings on their faces and backs. They represent loyalty, strength, and protection - qualities that Odin encourages in his kingdom.
His other companions are two ravens, Hugin and Munin (thought and memory). These ravens fly all over Midgard each day, gathering information and bringing it back to Odin. They help Odin stay informed about what is happening in the world.
Sleipnir is Odin's eight-legged horse. He was a gift from Loki to Odin after a deal between them during the building of the wall for Asgard. Sleipnir was said to be the fastest and greatest horse in all of Midgard. According to legend, he could even gallop through air and water with ease. He also helped carry Odin into battle during Ragnarök. Sleipnir's legacy lives on today as one of the most iconic symbols in Norse mythology.
Odin remains an important figure in Norse mythology today, and he has been featured prominently in various works of literature, film, television series, video games and other media. His legacy lives on as a symbol of strength, courage and wisdom.
Odin, Frigga, Geri and Freki, Hugin and Munin are attested in the Poetic Edda, Prose Edda and Odin appears as a prominent god throughout the recorded history of Northern Europe.
At Norhalla.com, Odin, Frigga, Sleipnir, Geri & Freki, and Hugin and Munin are featured as characters in our illustrated kid's books to introduce young children to the Norse gods and goddesses, Nordic and Scandinavian lore, and Norse mythology.
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