Freya is the goddess of love, lust, and celebrations. She rules over the realm called Folkvang and she is the Queen of the Valkyries. She is often pictured with a golden necklace and she is never without her chariot pulled by cats.
Freya was a member of the Vanir deities, and married to a god named Od, which is sometimes confused with Odin. Her identity and Frigg’s identity were often confused or intertwined in the ancient tales. After Od left her, Freya went a bit wild and became very well-known for her affairs. She was renowned for her beauty, which led the giant Thrym to demand her hand in marriage in exchange for the return of Thor’s hammer which he stole while Thor was sleeping. Thor eventually followed Heimdall’s plan to dress up as Freya for the wedding and then once he got his hands on his hammer, he killed all of the giants in attendance.
In another tale, Freya discovered a beautiful golden and amber necklace of desire in the workshop of four dwarves. She offered them money for the necklace, but they asked that she sleep with them in order to get the necklace. Odin did not like what was happening and ordered Loki to get the necklace and bring it to him. When Freya came to Odin to demand the necklace, he agreed to give it back to her once she made two kings go to battle with each other and restored their soldiers’ health each night, creating an endless battle. Freya agreed and retrieved her necklace from Odin.
Freya was also the Queen of the Valkyries, goddesses who did tasks for Odin. She ushered fallen soldiers who were not taken by Odin to Valhalla to her realm of Folkvang, which means “Field of the People.” It is not clear what the differences between the two realms were, or what the criteria was for which soldier went to which realm.
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Try it for Free!Freya Quick Reference
Parents
Njord and Nerthus
Domain / Power
- Love
- Lust
- Celebrations
- Folkvang
- Queen of the Valkyries
Symbols
- golden necklace named Brísingamen
- chariot pulled by cats
Notable Myths
- Theft of Thor’s hammer
- The Golden Necklace
- Folkvang
How Tos about Freya: Norse Goddess
Plan a Norse Mythology Picture Encyclopedia Activity for Your Class
Engage students by organizing a collaborative project where each student creates a page about a Norse mythological figure, including Freya. This hands-on activity encourages research skills and creativity while deepening understanding of Norse myths.
Introduce Freya Using Visual Storytelling Techniques
Showcase images and illustrations of Freya to help students visualize her attributes and significance. Connecting visuals with facts makes the learning experience memorable and supports diverse learners.
Facilitate a Group Discussion on Freya’s Role in Norse Mythology
Encourage students to share what they know or have learned about Freya’s powers, symbolism, and stories. This promotes critical thinking and helps students connect mythological concepts to broader themes.
Assign Creative Writing Tasks About Freya’s Adventures
Invite students to write short stories or diary entries from Freya’s perspective. This fosters empathy and strengthens literacy skills while exploring Norse mythology.
Incorporate Cross-Curricular Connections With Art and History
Integrate art projects such as drawing Freya's symbols or mapping her role in Viking society. Linking mythology to history and art deepens understanding and makes lessons more engaging.
Frequently Asked Questions about Freya: Norse Goddess
Who is Freya in Norse mythology?
Freya is a major goddess in Norse mythology, known for her association with love, beauty, fertility, and magic. She is a member of the Vanir gods and is often depicted as a powerful and compassionate figure.
What powers and symbols are associated with Freya?
Freya is linked to magic, especially the art of seiðr (Norse sorcery). Her symbols include the Brísingamen necklace, a chariot pulled by cats, and the falcon feather cloak she uses to fly between worlds.
How is Freya different from other Norse goddesses?
Unlike other Norse goddesses, Freya is both a Vanir and an Aesir through marriage, and is unique for her roles as a leader in magic, a chooser of warriors for Valhalla, and her influence over love and fertility.
Why do teachers include Freya in lessons about Norse mythology?
Freya helps students understand Norse beliefs about love, war, and the supernatural. Her stories offer engaging ways to explore cultural values and the roles of women in ancient myths.
What are some famous myths involving Freya?
Popular myths include Freya acquiring the magical Brísingamen necklace, her search for her lost husband Óðr, and her role in choosing fallen warriors for the afterlife in Folkvangr.
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