In Search of Knowledge and Wisdom – A Theme in Old Norse Culture

Susie J Folmer, March 2023

In Old Norse literature a philosophical pattern emerges around the attainment of knowledge and wisdom. This dominant theme in Old Norse literature underpins the cultural philosophy of life and the values and beliefs of society. Under the layered and complex kennings, metaphors, and parables the theme of attainment of knowledge and wisdom as a major life goal is as prevalent as the attainment of material riches and wealth, or the physical position of power and status. In fact, all these goals rely on wise actions, consultation with the wise and a sense of confidence in ‘knowing’. In the literature we see it is never an easy journey and quite comical in some cases. Throughout the literature we learn intrinsic life lessons about what it takes to reach the point of success and what that might cost a person.

Often Old Norse world is dominated by the view of the warrior Viking who in some cases is portrayed as a nothing more than a blood thirsty, fighting machine, however I believe if we look more closely and consider the time frames prior to the Viking Age and afterwards, we can clearly see the search of knowledge and wisdom emerge whether in Eddic or Saga literature was one which was an Old Norse philosophy that people embodied.

It appears that knowledge and wisdom were as highly prized as a fine ship, a hall full of amazing tapestries and fine clothing and goods. Those seen as wise are respected for it and treated with a sense of high positive regard, despite belonging to a warrior culture. Age and ability also were not necessarily barriers to a wise status, and we see that all have a place in society regardless of ability or age. The identification of those viewed as wise emerges when the wise are given the best seat in the home or at the table and fine gifts. Their reputation is a topic of flattering, and envious conversation. People in the community seen as wise in their roles are sought after for advice to resolve conflicts, to find answers and gain insight into a multitude of matters. Their ‘rank’ in society whether it is seen as formal for example, a goði, völva, skald, or chieftain, or as an informal role, is evident in the literature that has been left for us to enjoy and explore.

In Old Norse culture philosophy, independence, self-reliance, loyalty, modesty, hospitality, generosity, courage, compassion, and wisdom are interconnected virtues and attainment of one lead to another. Importantly, the emphasis of wisdom gained by experiences, particularly travelling, stands out as an important aspect. The myriad of experiences gained on this journey enhance knowledge and lead to a wise nature.

The “Wisdom Literature” in Old Norse literature are statements by sages and the wise offer the teachings of valued virtues. An example of this is presented to us in Sigrdrífumál as the advice given by Sigrdrífa to Sigurd and is another example we see regularly throughout the literature.

A widely read and well-known poem in the Poetic Edda, the Hávamál highlights that while wealth can be temporary, wisdom is everlasting and eternal. That behaving wisely leads to an individual’s independence another valued trait and characteristics, whilst isolation and independence were seen as strengths and character-building people are by nature social beings and the experiences of journeying to seek knowledge and wisdom imperative to reaching one’s full potential.

I know that I hung on the wind-swept tree

for nine whole nights stabbed with spears

and given to Óðinn

given self to own self

on that tree few know

whence its roots have run

Then I learned how to become wise

and to be wise

to grow and to find my well-being

Words from words found more words for me

deeds from deeds found more deeds for me.

(Hávamál st. 138 & 141 – trans M Kvilhaug)

Through Óðinn’s hardships, ordeals, and self-sacrifice he attains his knowledge and wisdom.  As the Hávamál shows us Óðinn’s sacrifice for knowledge of the runes to aid his quest for wisdom. In the Völuspá we also learn about Mímir the guardian of the ‘Well of Knowledge and Wisdom’ and we see the willingness of Óðinn to sacrifice his eye for a drink from Mímir’s Well. It is also Mímir whom Óðinn receives secret knowledge and wise counsel from. These are significant events which reflect the value of knowledge and wisdom and those who seek and have it in society. Perhaps these can also be seen as a series of initiations and trials he must face to gain such virtues. This state of illumination is best described in detail by Maria Kvilhaug in The Seeds of Yggdrasill.

This motif occurs in most, if not all, the Eddic, Skaldic and Saga literature and in the Hávamál, Völuspá, Gylfaginning, Sigrdrífumál, Ynglinga Saga to name a few. Each poem and story contains areas of wisdom of nature, human interactions and the attainment of wisdom which tells us something about the value and importance of wisdom in society. Some are clear examples, and some are more hidden and cryptic. Tales in Sagas give profiles of the wise and over time, how different ‘types’ of wisdom seemed to change in value as significant social change was underway.

To wield weapons wisely was both a required skill and an area one required knowledge in, including warring strategies in battle, outwitting opponents, and shrewdness in dealings with others. Whether it was practical knowledge or esoteric wisdom this aspect of life in Old Norse worlds expands the viewpoint of the blood thirsty Viking and brings into view the basic human nature and desire in life. To only think of and see the Old Norse worlds through the lens of the 300-400 year Viking Age would not be as wise as if we are to view it to full extent it really appears to have been.

References

Byock J, 2005, The Prose Edda. Penguin pub.

Kvilhaug M, 2020, The Seed of Yggdrasill. Three Little Sisters pub.

Orchard A, 2011, The Elder Edda: A Book of Viking Lore. Penguin pub.

© Susie J Folmer