Although the völva could hold high status, her work also had a dark side. Magic was often associated with ergi (unmanliness) and chaos. The stories about völva's who after their death had to be "pinned down" in their grave with heavy stones bear witness to the ambivalent attitude of society towards their power.
Quick Facts: The Dark Side
- Ergi: A term for behaviour that deviated from rigid gender roles. Men who practised seiðr (seiðmaðr) were often associated with ergi.
- Fear: Some völva's were beheaded or buried with stones on their bodies to prevent them from returning as draugr (the undead).
- Black magic: There were undoubtedly practitioners of "black magic" who cursed people or ruined marriages.
A society on the margins
Völva's often stood on the margins of society. Their lifestyle — untouched by oath or marriage — clashed with the hierarchical Viking structure. The accusations of manipulation and black magic later formed fertile ground for Christian witch hunts. Yet we also see that they were crucial; the völva could protect a tribe or advise a king. The truth lies in the middle: they were powerful individuals who were both feared and revered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What exactly did 'ergi' mean?
It was a heavily insulting term for a man who was considered "feminine" or "unmanly". Yet the practice of seiðr by men (including Odin) was sometimes practised.
Why were some völva's beheaded in their graves?
This was a ritual precaution. People believed that magicians retained their powers after death, and wanted to prevent their spirit from troubling the living.
Summary
The völva existed on the border between divinity and danger. Her power was undeniable, but the price was often a life on the margins of society. This "dark side" makes their history all the more human and mysterious.
Internal links
- The Power of the Invisible: A Guide to Viking Magic
- Seiðr and the Cosmic Order
- Sound of the Spirits: Music, Gjalder and Magic
Sources
- Mitchell, S. A. (2011). Witchcraft and Magic in the Nordic Middle Ages. University of Pennsylvania Press.
- Price, N. (2019). The Viking Way. Oxbow Books.
- Primary source saga: Eyrbyggja saga (The feud between the sorceresses Katla and Geirríðr).
