drægni

Drægni is a term that appears in Old English literature, notably in the epic poem Beowulf. Its exact meaning and etymology are subject to scholarly debate, but it is generally understood to refer to a type of creature or entity, often depicted as monstrous or terrifying. The word itself is believed to be derived from the Old English verb "drægan," meaning to drag, pull, or endure. This suggests a connection to something that is dragged along or that causes suffering.

In the context of Beowulf, drægni are sometimes associated with the lineage of Cain, a figure from the Book of Genesis known for committing the first murder. This association imbues them with a sense of ancient evil and a connection to primal sin. Descriptions of drægni are often vague, contributing to their mysterious and fearsome nature. They are not consistently defined as a specific species but rather as a category of malevolent beings that inhabit dark or desolate places.

Scholars have proposed various interpretations for drægni, ranging from demons and monsters to allegorical representations of destructive forces or abstract concepts like dread or despair. The ambiguity of the term allows for a broad understanding of its function within the poem, serving to enhance the atmosphere of peril and the heroic struggle against overwhelming odds. The rarity of the term outside of specific poetic contexts further emphasizes its specialized usage within Old English literary tradition.