the norse exercises
norse world
myth culture pantheon download as word document
A-exercises
1. Look at a map of the world. Where is Norway?
 
2.1 Make a map of the countries that the Vikings visited and the routes that they sailed.
2.2 Briefly describe the major events in the history of Norway? Make a time line that lists all the changes that took place.
 
3.1

Trees play an important role in Norse mythology. Where in their mythology do we find trees and why are they so important?

3.2 According to the Norse creation myth, trees come into existence in different ways. List some of these ways.
3.3 What are the characteristics that the Norse gods share?
3.4 What is the difference between Ginnungagap, Midgard and Asgard?
3.5 In most myths there is nothing in the beginning. What did nothing look like according to the Norse creation myth?
3.6 Why did Odin create human beings?
 
4. What similarities do you see between the Norse creation myth and those of other cultures?
B-exercises
Look at a few websites that deal with this culture and choose one or two that have images, sounds or text that you think are useful for preparing your presentation. Make a summary or a sketch of the Norse creation myth on a piece of flip chart paper. As much as possible, try to use the illustrations and images you found on the internet.

Choose one of the following exercises:

1. This Norse creation myth comes from the Vikings. Imagine the year is 1015 and Olaf II returns to Norway proclaiming a different religion and a different creation myth. He tries to convince several important people (who did not join him on the trip), that the new religion he has brought with him is the true religion. Present a discussion between Olaf II and those who stayed behind in which they each try to convince the other that they know what a real and a false religion is. Use arguments and emotions.

or

2. Make a poster of the family tree of the gods and explain during your presentation what the meaning is of this family tree for Norse mythology.
C-exercises
Which god from the pantheon appeals to you most? Find more information about this god. You can probably even find a story about this god.
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