Skírnismál

Skírnismál is the sixth poem in the Poetic Edda, a collection of Old Norse heroic and mythological poems. The poem recounts the story of the god Freyr and his courtship of the giantess Gerðr. Freyr, smitten by Gerðr's beauty, falls into a deep melancholy. His father, Njörðr, and his servant, Skírnir, notice his distress. Freyr confides in Skírnir, revealing his love for Gerðr, who lives in the land of Jötunheimr.

Skírnir, in his role as Freyr's emissary, agrees to travel to Jötunheimr and woo Gerðr on Freyr's behalf. He rides Freyr's magical horse, which can traverse the fiery barriers surrounding Gerðr's hall. Upon arrival, Skírnir attempts to persuade Gerðr to accept Freyr's proposal, first through gifts of gold and silver, and then through threats and curses. Gerðr initially resists, but eventually succumbs to Skírnir's threats and agrees to meet Freyr nine nights later in a grove called Barri.

The poem is notable for its vivid descriptions and its exploration of themes such as love, desire, and the power of magic. It provides insight into the Norse perception of the relationship between the gods and giants, and the role of intermediaries in achieving desired outcomes. The ending of the poem, where Gerðr agrees to the union, suggests a resolution to Freyr's initial despair and the successful completion of Skírnir's mission.