Hel: The Enigmatic Goddess of the Underworld
Hel, deriving from Old Norse “Hel,” meaning “Hidden,” is a significant figure in Norse mythology, presiding over the underworld that shares her name. This “hidden” connotation speaks to the nature of death, as it often signifies that which is concealed beneath the earth.
In the accounts of the thirteenth-century Icelandic historian Snorri Sturluson, Hel is recognized as the offspring of Loki, the trickster god, and the giantess Angrboda, whose name translates to “Anguish-boding.” Consequently, she shares familial ties with Fenrir, the formidable wolf, and Jormungand, the daunting world serpent, placing her within a lineage known for peril and treachery.
Despite her integral role, Hel is commonly depicted as possessing traits of greed, cruelty, or at least a stark indifference toward both the living and the deceased. Her character is little fleshed out within existing Old Norse texts, primarily featuring as a side note in most references. Snorri portrays her as having a striking appearance—half of her body appears black while the other half is white, with an expression marked by grim and fierce attributes.
The most prominent myth involving Hel centers on the tragic demise of Baldur, a beloved deity. In this narrative, Baldur’s death is orchestrated by none other than his father, Loki. In desperation, the other gods dispatch an envoy named Hermod to Hel’s domain, hoping to persuade her to release Baldur from her grasp. Hermod appeals to her, expressing the immense sorrow felt throughout the cosmos. However, Hel’s response is as cold as her realm; she agrees to free Baldur only if every entity in the universe mourns him. This quest is nearly successful, with nearly every being shedding tears for Baldur. Yet, one giantess, who is suspected to be Loki disguising herself, withholds her grief. This singular refusal is enough for Hel to maintain her hold on Baldur, illustrating her ruthless nature.
Since Hel’s character is not deeply explored in ancient texts, many academics theorize that she is more a literary representation of death than a deity actively worshiped or revered in her own right. Without definitive evidence, this remains a topic for ongoing scholarly debate.
For those seeking to delve deeper into Norse mythology, a variety of resources are available, alongside literature such as “The Viking Spirit,” which serves as a comprehensive guide to the rich tapestry of Norse mythology and religious practices.
