neiðr

neiðr is a term from Old Norse mythology. It refers to a type of magical being or entity that is often associated with the underworld or the realm of the dead. These beings are sometimes depicted as serpents or dragons, and they are known for their malevolent nature and their association with deceit and treachery.

In some sources, neiðr are considered to be monstrous creatures that guard treasures or torment souls in the afterlife. Their exact nature and role can vary across different sagas and poems, making it difficult to form a singular, definitive understanding. However, the common thread is their connection to darkness and negative forces.

The concept of neiðr likely played a role in the ancient Scandinavian worldview, reflecting anxieties about death, the unknown, and the forces that could oppose the living. While not as prominently featured as some other mythological figures, they represent an important element in the broader tapestry of Norse cosmology, particularly in its darker and more fearsome aspects.