matsmál

Matsmál is a poem from the Poetic Edda, a collection of Old Norse poems compiled in the 13th century. It is one of the most famous and well-known poems in the Edda, and is often referred to as the "Lay of the Sword." The poem is attributed to the god Odin, and it tells the story of how Odin obtained the sword Gram, which was forged by the dwarf Brokkr and his brother Eitri.

The poem begins with Odin's wife, Frigg, warning him not to go to the giants' hall, Utgard, as he has done before. Despite her warning, Odin sets out for Utgard, accompanied by his ravens Huginn and Muninn. Upon arriving at Utgard, Odin is challenged to a contest by the giant Utgard-Loki. Odin agrees to the contest, and the two engage in a series of riddles and challenges.

During the contest, Odin is given a golden cup by Utgard-Loki, which he drinks from. The cup is filled with mead, but Odin is not aware of this. As he drinks, he becomes drunk and falls asleep. While Odin is asleep, Utgard-Loki takes his sword, Gram, and hides it in a cave. Odin awakens and searches for his sword, but he is unable to find it.

Odin then sets out to find the dwarfs Brokkr and Eitri, who are known for their skill in forging weapons. Odin challenges the dwarfs to forge him a new sword, and they agree to do so. The dwarfs forge a new sword for Odin, but they are unable to forge a new handle for it. Odin then challenges the dwarfs to forge him a new handle, and they agree to do so.

The dwarfs forge a new handle for the sword, and Odin takes the sword and returns to Asgard. The poem ends with Odin praising the dwarfs for their skill and the sword for its sharpness.

Matsmál is an important poem in Norse mythology, as it tells the story of how Odin obtained his most famous weapon, Gram. The poem is also notable for its use of riddles and challenges, which are common themes in Norse mythology. The poem is often cited as an example of the skill and cunning of the Norse gods and heroes.