Snake pit facts for kids
A snake pit is, simply put, a hole filled with snakes. In old stories and legends, snake pits were often described as scary places. They were used for punishment or death. These tales come from European folklore and myths.
Contents
Snake Pits in Legends and Stories
Snake pits appear in many old tales. They are often shown as places of danger.
Ragnar Lodbrok's Story
One famous legend tells of a Viking leader named Ragnar Lodbrok. He was a powerful warlord. The story says that Ragnar's army was defeated in battle. This happened when they fought against King Aelle II of Northumbria. After his defeat, Ragnar Lodbrok was captured. The legend claims he was thrown into a snake pit. This was his terrible end.
The Tale of King Gunnarr
Another old story comes from a poem called Atlakviða. It also appears in Oddrúnargrátr. This legend tells about Attila the Hun, a famous leader. Attila is said to have killed Gunnarr, who was the King of Burgundy. The story describes Gunnarr being murdered in a snake pit.
Dietrich von Bern and the Giant
A medieval German poem features a hero named Dietrich von Bern. In this tale, a huge giant named Sigenot throws Dietrich into a snake pit. But Dietrich is lucky! He had a special, magical jewel. A dwarf had given it to him earlier. This jewel protected Dietrich from the snakes. It helped him survive the dangerous pit.
See also
In Spanish: Pozo de serpientes para niños
- Narcisse Snake Pits
