seiðkona

Seiðkona is an Old Norse term referring to a female practitioner of seiðr, a form of Norse magic. Seiðr was a complex and often misunderstood practice that involved prophecy, divination, and influencing fate. Seiðkona were typically women, though men could also practice seiðr, albeit with societal stigma attached.

The role of a seiðkona was often one of great respect and influence within Viking Age society. They were consulted for advice on matters of personal and communal importance, including predicting the future, healing, and ensuring good harvests. Their abilities were believed to stem from a deep connection to the divine and the supernatural.

Seiðr was not always viewed positively. It was associated with the *vanir*, a group of gods in Norse mythology, and was sometimes seen as a more feminine or even effeminate practice compared to the martial prowess favored by the *aésir* gods. Despite this, the power of the seiðkona was undeniable, and their pronouncements could shape decisions and influence the lives of many. Archaeological evidence, such as burial sites with specific artifacts, has provided insights into the possible practices and status of those who engaged in seiðr. The surviving sagas and Eddic poetry offer fragmented but valuable accounts of their activities and the mystical realms they navigated.