Ritual and Hierarchy in Old Norse Mythology

Abstract

Within Old Norse mythological narratives, the presence or absence of ritual establishes hierarchy. As exemplified in death ritual, ritual orders the two major classes of mythological beings, placing the Asir (gods) above the jqtnar ("giants"). In addition, the practice of ritual or ritual-like activity, resembling sacrifice, orders the class of the Asir themselves, placing Óoinn above órr.