Hel vs. Hela: The Norse Goddess of the Underworld Explained

I. Introduction

Norse mythology, rich with tales of gods, giants, and heroes, offers a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs and values of the Viking age. Central to these myths is the concept of the underworld, a realm where souls journey after death. This article aims to clarify the distinctions between Hel, the ancient Norse goddess of the underworld, and Hela, a modern interpretation of this mythological figure.

II. Understanding Hel in Norse Mythology

A. Definition and role of Hel as a goddess

In Norse mythology, Hel is the goddess who presides over the realm of the dead, often referred to as Helheim. She is responsible for receiving those who did not die a heroic death in battle, a stark contrast to the warriors who ascend to Valhalla. Hel embodies both the inevitability of death and the somber acceptance of mortality.

B. Description of Hel’s domain: the realm of the dead

Helheim, the realm ruled by Hel, is depicted as a cold and dark place, reflecting the sorrow and isolation of its inhabitants. It is said to be located beneath one of the roots of Yggdrasil, the world tree, adding to its mystical significance. Souls that enter Helheim do so after a natural death, and they remain there until the end of days.

C. Hel’s lineage and relationship with Loki

Hel is a daughter of Loki, the trickster god, and the giantess Angerboda. This lineage positions her within a complex family dynamic among the Norse deities, as Loki himself is often a figure of chaos and change. Hel’s parentage contributes to her ambiguous nature, embodying both fear and acceptance.

III. The Depiction of Hel

A. Physical appearance and symbolism

Hel is often depicted as having a dual nature; her appearance is said to be half beautiful and half decayed, symbolizing life and death. This duality represents the balance between the two states that define existence.

B. Iconography associated with Hel in art and literature

• Common imagery includes her holding a staff or a key, representing her authority over the dead.
• She is frequently accompanied by her hound, Garmr, who guards the entrance to Helheim.

C. Her portrayal in different sources (Poetic Edda, Prose Edda)

Hel is described in various texts, most notably the Poetic Edda and the Prose Edda. In these sources, her character is explored through various myths, illustrating her role and the nature of her realm.

IV. Hela: A Modern Interpretation

A. Introduction to Hela as a character in contemporary culture

Hela has emerged as a character in modern pop culture, particularly in comic books and films. She is often portrayed as a powerful villain, drawing on Hel’s mythological roots while adapting her character for contemporary narratives.

B. Differences between the mythological Hel and the modern Hela

While Hel is a complex figure embodying the acceptance of death, modern portrayals of Hela often emphasize her as an antagonist with grand ambitions of power and revenge. This shift highlights the evolution of her character through cultural reinterpretation.

C. Hela’s role in popular media, including comics and films

• Hela appears in the Marvel Comics universe, where she is depicted as the goddess of death and ruler of Hel.
• In the film “Thor: Ragnarok,” Hela is portrayed as a formidable force seeking to reclaim her power, showcasing a dramatic reinterpretation of her character.

V. Theological and Cultural Significance of Hel

A. Hel’s influence on Viking beliefs about death and the afterlife

Hel’s character played a crucial role in shaping Viking attitudes towards death. Unlike the glorification of warriors dying in battle, Hel represented the acceptance of death as a natural part of life, influencing societal views on mortality.

B. Rituals and practices associated with honoring Hel

While specific rituals dedicated to Hel may not be extensively documented, it is believed that Norse people engaged in practices to honor the dead, reflecting their respect for Hel’s domain. This included offerings and memorials for those who had passed.

C. The moral implications of Hel’s character in Norse mythology

Hel’s role as the guardian of the dead carries moral weight in Norse mythology. She serves as a reminder of the inevitability of death and the importance of living a life that, while not necessarily heroic, is honorable and meaningful.

VI. Comparing Hel and Hela

A. Key similarities between Hel and Hela

• Both figures are associated with death and the underworld.
• Each embodies significant power within their respective narratives.

B. Major differences in representation and narrative

Hel’s representation is deeply rooted in ancient beliefs about the afterlife, while Hela represents a modern interpretation that often emphasizes villainy and ambition. This shift reflects broader changes in how mythology is adapted for contemporary audiences.

C. The impact of cultural evolution on the perception of Hel/Hela

The evolution from Hel to Hela illustrates how mythological figures can be reinterpreted to fit new cultural contexts. This evolution highlights the fluidity of mythology and its ability to resonate with different generations.

VII. Legacy and Influence of Hel in Modern Culture

A. Hel’s role in literature, art, and music today

Hel continues to inspire artists, writers, and musicians today, appearing in various forms of media that explore themes of death, the afterlife, and the human condition.

B. The resurgence of interest in Norse mythology

With the rise of popular media adaptations, there has been a renewed interest in Norse mythology, leading to a broader exploration of its characters, including Hel. This resurgence has sparked interest in the cultural and historical significance of these ancient beliefs.

C. How Hel’s character continues to inspire contemporary narratives

Hel’s character, with her complex nature and symbolism, serves as a rich source of inspiration for contemporary narratives that explore themes of mortality, power, and the afterlife. Her legacy endures as a testament to the timeless nature of myth.

VIII. Conclusion

In summary, Hel and Hela represent two facets of the same mythological figure, reflecting the evolution of cultural perceptions of death and the afterlife. Hel’s significance in Norse mythology offers profound insights into Viking beliefs, while Hela’s modern reinterpretation highlights the adaptability of myth. As interest in Norse mythology continues to grow, the enduring legacy of Hel, the Norse goddess of the underworld, invites further exploration and understanding.