In the realm of Norse mythology, Hermod is recognized as the divine figure dispatched by the Aesir to Helheim, with the objective of negotiating with Hel, the ruler of the underworld, to retrieve Baldr and bring him back to Asgard. He is noted to be the offspring of Odin and Frigg, with his name translating to “fiery in battle.” Riding on Odin’s steed, Sleipnir, Hermod embarks on this critical journey.
Hermod’s Role in the Prose Edda
The character of Hermod is elaborated upon in section 49 of the Prose Edda, specifically in the Gylfaginning. This passage describes the overwhelming sorrow experienced by the gods following Baldr’s demise, which left them in a state of shock and immobilized by grief. Once the gods regained composure from their despair, Frigg inquired among them who might seek to “earn their esteem and affection” through a quest to Helheim, the mythical underworld. Those willing would need to offer some form of ransom to facilitate Baldr’s return to Asgard. Hermod stepped forward, ready to undertake this perilous journey alongside Sleipnir.
Hermod traversed the treacherous landscape for nine days and nine nights, void of light, until he approached the gilded bridge known as Gjöll, which was guarded by the maiden Móðguðr. She informed him that Baldr had already made his way across the bridge and instructed Hermod to proceed downwards and towards the north. Upon reaching the entrance to Helheim, Hermod dismounted, adjusted the saddle, and with a skillful maneuver, urged Sleipnir to leap across the threshold. Thus, Hermod reached Helheim, where he found Baldr seated in a position of honor.
In his plea to Hel, Hermod implored her to release Baldr, citing the deep sorrow of the Aesir. Hel responded that Baldr’s release was contingent upon the condition that all beings, both mortal and divine, mourned for him. In a gesture of loyalty, Baldr gifted Hermod the Draupnir ring, which had been incinerated with him, instructing him to return it to Odin. Additionally, Nanna presented Hermod with a beautiful robe for Frigg, alongside other tokens meant for Fulla. After gathering these messages and gifts, Hermod began his return journey.
Throughout the manuscripts, Hermod is often referred to as Odin’s “son.” In the Codex Regius—the most esteemed of these texts—he is addressed as sveinn Óðins, translating to “boy of Odin” or more accurately, signifying a “servant of Odin.” Regardless, Hermod is recognized as a brother by Baldr in various narratives, underscoring his significance in the lineage of Odin’s progeny.
