froðr

Froðr is a figure in Norse mythology, appearing primarily in the Poetic Edda and the Prose Edda. He is known as a king of the Danes and a wise ruler. The name Froðr itself is related to the Old Norse word for "wise" or "prosperous."

In the Eddic poem "Gróttasöngur" (The Song of Grotti), Froðr is depicted as a benevolent king who possesses a magical millstone named Grótti. This millstone has the ability to grind out whatever its operator wishes. Froðr uses Grótti to produce gold, bringing great wealth and prosperity to his kingdom. He is described as being exceptionally generous, sharing his riches with his people.

However, Froðr's reign eventually comes to an end. He is tricked by two enslaved thralls, Fenja and Menja, who operate the millstone. They are forced to grind incessantly, and at their own request, they ask Froðr to let them grind out salt. They continue to grind until they have created a vast amount of salt and eventually sink the millstone into the sea, causing the ocean to become salty. This event marks the end of Froðr's era of prosperity.

The tale of Froðr and the millstone Grótti serves as an etiological myth, explaining the origin of the saltiness of the sea in Norse tradition. It also highlights themes of wisdom, generosity, and the potential consequences of greed or overreach. While Froðr is a significant character in these narratives, his presence is largely confined to this specific story.