Viking Magic

The prologue depicts a somber, ritualistic funeral procession for a deceased woman, where her body is adorned and ceremonially placed in a grave, accompanied by chants, symbolic actions, and offerings of personal items and animals. Large stones are then used to crush and cover the body, ensuring she remains in her grave, reflecting a fear of her potential return.

The "Fragments" chapter contextualizes this imagined scene with archaeological findings and interpretations, suggesting such burials were for women of significant power, possibly sorceresses feared in life and death.

The "Background" chapter sets the stage for exploring the Viking worldview and magic, describing a time when human imagination was deeply intertwined with reality and divine will. The book aims to delve into the everyday magical practices of the Vikings, presenting translated texts from sagas to offer a detailed picture of their extranatural beliefs and life.

Next, we delve into the Viking worldview, where reality intertwines with divine will and magic. Translating texts from manuscripts, we unveil the magical practices of the Vikings. In their world, supernatural beings abound, and possessing a 'sixth sense' was vital for survival. Though diminished, this heightened perception subtly lingers today. We then explain three specific concepts in the Old Norse belief system.

"Hugr" embodies harmonious thoughts and emotions fostering social cohesion, akin to modern political rallies and national pride.
"Hamingja" serves as an intangible protective force crucial in battle, still relevant in today's leadership.
"Fylgja" represents a soul element offering premonitions, reflecting the interconnectedness of Viking society and the lost instinctual knowledge over time.

Exploring interactions with the dead based on Old Norse sagas, we contrast the haugbúinn (mound-dwellers) and draugr (living dead) with modern zombies. We describe "hel," the land of the dead, and the evolving mythology and cultural significance of trolls. Emphasizing magic's role in shaping life, particularly the transition from feminine to masculine dominance, we highlight its enduring power.

Old Norse magical practices are outlined in the "Techniques" chapter, noting the challenge of reconstructing rituals from fragmented evidence. It describes various types of magic found in Norse sagas and compares them to modern equivalents.

Seiðr magic involved altered states of consciousness, similar to shamanic practices, and included spellcasting.
Another practice, called hamr referred to taking animal forms for combat advantages, a concept seen in modern representations.
Illusion magic is discussed, with examples like making objects or people appear or disappear, as well as shape-shifting and teleportation. The chapter also differentiates illusion magic from other abilities like premonitions.

The significance of verbal magic is highlighted, showing how incantations, chants, curses, and hexes were believed to influence reality. This is compared to modern practices like mantras and affirmations, illustrating a long-standing belief in the power of words.
Inverse magic involved performing operations backward, challenging the natural order to manipulate events. Examples include walking backward or moving opposite to the sun's direction.
Ritual exposure, where women exposed their genitals to ward off the enemy, is symbolized extranatural power.
Skins played an important role in Viking rituals, often spun over the head while reciting spells to influence natural phenomena or block magic. Similar rituals using whips are noted in Hungarian traditions.
Finally, runes are described as being used for incantations, divination, and casting spells.

The chapter "Implements of Magic" explores the concepts of amulets, talismans, and charms, highlighting their magical properties and purposes.
Amulets provide protection against external forces, while talismans carry an active force that wards off harm and bestows powers.
Charms attract positive effects like luck and health. Examples of Viking amulets are discussed, showcasing their practical and symbolic significance.

Another section delves into the multifaceted portrayal of the dvergar in Norse mythology, from skilled craftsmen creating objects for gods to fairytale helpers providing enchanted gifts. Various legendary objects like swords and bows crafted by dvergar are explored, each imbued with exceptional abilities and symbolism.
Lastly, the chapter examines the significance of wands and staves in Norse culture. Wands, associated with men, represent active forces and are used for specific goals, while staves, linked with sorceresses, symbolize divine connection and authority, adorned with symbols of lineage and spiritual significance.

The chapter “In Lieu of a Moral” we witness the evolution of magic over time, highlighting its natural integration into ancient societies and its transformation in the face of cultural shifts, particularly with the advent of Christianity.
Magic, once viewed as a natural language conveying living knowledge, underwent changes in meaning and perception, leading to the gradual decline of its practitioners' status from revered guardians of ancient rituals to suspicious figures persecuted for their abilities.
Sorcerers and seers, once regarded as channels between worlds, became marginalized as their practices were increasingly viewed with doubt and suspicion.
The chapter contrasts these ancient practitioners with modern illusionists, noting the enduring human fascination with the supernatural despite the true essence of magic fades from everyday life. It also reflects on the clash between pagan and Christian beliefs, particularly in Northern Europe.

Turning our attention to the "Appendices," we uncover a treasure trove of supplementary information on various intriguing subjects. From deviant burial practices of medieval times to the mystery of the Oseberg Ship's discovery in Norway, readers are treated to a comprehensive exploration of the magical worldview of the Old Norse people. Through original texts and cultural contexts, enigmatic terms like "fylgja," "hamingja," "hugr," and "hamr" are researched, shedding light on their profound meanings. The appendices delve into ancient battles infused with sorcery, the resurgence of shamanic traditions in modern urban settings, and the enduring magical practices of cultures such as the Sami people. Readers also encounter discussions on historical curses spanning civilizations and epochs, from the ancient Curse of Agade to the Greek Binding Spell, along with explorations of religious texts, Norse myths, and the symbolic significance of magical objects. Through these supplementary materials, readers embark on a captivating journey through time and culture, unraveling the mystical and magical facets of humanity's past and present.