Höðr facts for kids
Höðr (pronounced HOH-thur) is a character in Norse mythology. He is the blind twin brother of Baldr. His parents are Odin, the chief god, and Frigg, the goddess of motherhood. Höðr is often linked to winter and darkness. His brother Baldr, however, is known as the god of light.
Contents
Who is Höðr?
Höðr is a god from the ancient stories of the Norse people. He is unique because he is blind. He is sometimes called the god of cold and darkness. This is a big contrast to his brother, Baldr, who represents light and beauty. Höðr's story is mostly known because of one very important event.
The Tragic Story of Baldr's Death
The most famous story about Höðr involves his brother, Baldr. Baldr was loved by everyone. He had dreams that he would die. His mother, Frigg, made everything in the world promise not to harm him. This included all plants, animals, and even diseases.
Loki's Trick
However, the trickster god Loki found one small plant that Frigg had overlooked. This plant was the mistletoe. It was considered too young and harmless to ask for a promise. Loki then made a dart or arrow from this mistletoe.
Höðr's Unintentional Role
The gods were having fun throwing things at Baldr. Nothing could hurt him because of Frigg's magic. Loki gave the mistletoe dart to Höðr. He knew Höðr was blind and could not see what he was doing. Loki guided Höðr's hand. Höðr then accidentally threw the mistletoe dart at Baldr. The dart pierced Baldr, and he died instantly. This was a very sad day for all the gods.
Höðr's Fate and Future
Höðr did not mean to kill his brother. He was tricked by Loki. But the gods were still very angry.
Váli's Revenge
Odin had another son named Váli. Váli was born specifically to avenge Baldr's death. Váli grew up very quickly. He then killed Höðr to get revenge for Baldr.
After Ragnarök
Norse myths tell of a great battle called Ragnarök. This battle is said to be the end of the world for the gods. However, some stories say that Höðr and Baldr will survive Ragnarök. They will then return to rule together in a new, peaceful world. This shows that even after tragedy, there can be hope and new beginnings.
Images for kids
See also
In Spanish: Höðr para niños
