feberens

Feberens is a term that appears in the context of medieval Scandinavian literature, particularly in Norse sagas. It refers to a type of sorcery or magical practice that was believed to cause illness or death. The practitioners of feberens were often depicted as women, known as völur or seiðkonur, who wielded their power through rituals, incantations, and the use of specific tools or substances. This magic was considered dark and dangerous, capable of inflicting harm from a distance.

The concept of feberens is linked to the broader practice of seiðr, a complex form of magic in Norse culture. While seiðr could be used for various purposes, feberens specifically denotes its malevolent application in causing sickness. The effects of feberens were thought to manifest as sudden and inexplicable ailments, often leading to the victim's demise. Sagas sometimes recount instances where characters are accused of practicing feberens, leading to their ostracization or punishment.

Understanding feberens provides insight into the beliefs and fears surrounding magic in medieval Scandinavia. It highlights the perceived dangers of sorcery and the societal anxieties regarding hidden powers that could disrupt the natural order and inflict suffering. The literary depictions of feberens serve as a window into the cultural understanding of illness, mortality, and the supernatural in that historical period.