“[These are the stories] of the Norse gods and goddesses, their many
adventures in the lands of men, dwarfs, and giants; their magic weapons
and enchantments; their battles with their enemies and finally their doom
in the last battle of all – Ragnarok” (Harrison & Humphries, 1985).
Many of the Norse narratives tell of conflicts between gods and monsters.
The gods gradually bring order to the chaos that the monsters and giants
constantly try to create.
As you listen to and read these stories consider the motives or reasons for
the characters’ actions.
 Why do the characters behave as they do?
 What do their actions reveal about human nature?
Stories of
Norse Gods
and Goddesses
“The Norse gods and
Read ONE of:
“Odins’ Three Quests” by Mary Pope Osbourne
“How Freya Gained Her Necklace” retold by Padraic Colum
“The Magic Stallion” by Mary Pope Osbourne
“Loki’s Children and the Binding of Fenrir” by Kevin Crossley-Holland
“Sif’sGolden Hair” retold by Padraic Colum
“The Death of Balder” by Mary Pope Osbourne
Before Reading
You will be split up into groups to read one of the stories above. Each group
member must complete the During Reading and After Reading activities.
goddesses were very
like the Norsemen. They
fought, married, and
loved adventures. They
felt human emotions
such as jealousy and
could behave in a most
Read the story out loud, taking turns after each paragraph.
During Reading
As you read, consider personality traits of the main character (protagonist)
in your story. Highlight or underline words, sentences, or sections that
reveal personality traits.
After Reading
With your group, make a list of the main character’s personality traits.
Think about motives (reasons) for the characters actions.
Divide your lists into positive and negative traits. Include at least five traits
in each part.
ungodlike way” (Evans
& Millard, 1986).
Title of Narrative:
Positive Traits
Character:
Negative Traits