Woden: A Historical Companion

by Stephen Pollington

All-father, warlord, runemaster, kingmaker, healer-manifold aspects, numerous stories. This book brings together the written and physical evidence for the god called Woden or Óðinn (Odin) in his many guises spanning more than a thousand years. Drawing on the latest interpretations of literary evidence and recent archaeological discoveries, Pollington assembles an impressive array of data to cast a fresh light on the origins and later history of the enigmatic god of war, magic, death, and secret wisdom.




Sources discussed range from Greco-Roman works to early runic inscriptions, Lombard origin tales to conversion narratives, genealogies to charms to Eddic poems, runestones and picture stones to armor and funerary furniture. With source texts provided in their original languages and in English translations, this book serves as an invaluable guide to a dynamic religious tradition practiced across large parts of northern Europe in the Iron Age and for centuries after.

Genres: Mythology, Research, Religion, Paganism, History

588 pages, Hardcover

Published February 1, 2024

Reviews

[Reordberend · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a rich hoard of materials ranging from Old Norse texts, Old English poems, to visual arts, burial goods, etc.! All the materials and discussions point at the former centrality of this Germanic god. It's always good to have this companion at hand.

[Grace Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not just a book, but a rich source of information. Each page is replete with facts and insights drawn from extensive research, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of early Germanic Europe! It's intriguing for anyone curious about history, culture, and mythology!

[Deorwynnnnnnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whether you're a scholar of Norse mythology, a history enthusiast, or simply someone intrigued by ancient gods and their legacies, Woden: A Historical Companion is an invaluable resource that both informs and entertains.

[Connor · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic review of the majority of thr historical and archaeological material that we have available pertaining to Woden, accompanied by Pollington's insightful theories. A must-read for anyone interested in Germanic mythology.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book provides lots of information about Germanic Mythology. Fantastic!

[Rick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Comprehensive. An invaluable resource for researching Woden/Odin in the historical record.