In Norse mythology, Hermod is recognized as the divine figure dispatched by the Aesir to Helheim in an effort to persuade its ruler, Hel, to return Baldr to Asgard. He is notably the offspring of Odin and Frigg, with a name that translates to ‘fiery in combat.’ Riding the magnificent Sleipnir, Odin’s horse, Hermod makes his arduous journey to the gates of Helheim. His agility and speed allow him to be likened to Hermes from Greek mythology and his Roman counterpart, Mercury, who are both known as swift deities and messengers.
Hermod’s Journey in the Prose Edda
Within the content of the Prose Edda, particularly in the Gylfaginning section, Hermod’s role is highlighted during a time of profound mourning faced by the gods following Baldr’s demise. Overcome with grief, the gods found themselves numb and incapable of action. Once the initial shock subsided, Frigg posed a question to the Aesir about who among them would eagerly undertake the mission to Helheim, a journey that would require a ransom for Baldr’s return. Hermod stepped forward and accepted the challenge, embarking on his quest with Sleipnir.
The journey was not a brief one; Hermod traveled for nine days and nights through dark and treacherous landscapes until finally reaching Gjöll, the bridge adorned in gold, guarded by Móðguðr. Upon arrival, Móðguðr informed him that Baldr had already traversed the bridge and instructed Hermod on how to proceed. When he reached Helheim, Hermod dismounted, adjusted his saddle, then mounted once more before leaping over the portal, thus gaining access to Helheim itself.
Upon entering Helheim, Hermod found Baldr seated in a place of honor. He implored Hel to release Baldr, highlighting the sorrow echoed among the Aesir. In response, Hel declared that Baldr could only be freed if every being, both mortal and divine, shed tears for him. As a token of their bond, Baldr gifted Hermod the Draupnir ring, which had been cremated with him, to present to Odin. Nanna, Baldr’s wife, also entrusted Hermod with a robe for Frigg and additional offerings.
The narrative establishes Hermod as “son” of Odin in numerous texts, but in the esteemed Codex Regius, he is referred to as sveinn Óðins, translating to ‘boy of Odin’ and implying more of a servant role. Nevertheless, in later references, Baldr acknowledges Hermod as his brother, and he is consistently recognized as one of Odin’s sons among the lineage listed in various manuscripts.
