Völuspá (Prophecy of the Seeress / The Prophecy of Ragnarok) is the opening poem of the Poetic Edda, a foundational collection of Old Norse myths, legends, and heroic tales. It is one of the most important sources of Norse mythology, offering a vivid portrayal of the cosmos’ creation, the history of the gods, and the prophesied end of the world, Ragnarök.
Structure and Themes
The poem is narrated by a völva (seeress), who reveals her visions to Odin, the chief of the Norse gods. She recounts:
The world’s beginnings from chaos.
The creation of gods, humans, and giants and the creation of the worlds. Midgard and humans.
Key events in Norse mythology, including the death of Baldr and Loki’s betrayal.
The apocalyptic battle of Ragnarök and the subsequent rebirth of the world.
Why is Völuspá Important?
Völuspá provides a comprehensive framework for understanding Norse cosmology. Its poetic form, filled with vivid imagery and mystical symbolism, makes it one of the most celebrated works of Norse literature. It connects ancient beliefs with themes of cyclical time, destruction, and renewal, which remain relevant today.
