Áfangavörur

Áfangavörur is a concept in medieval Icelandic literature, specifically in the Poetic Edda and the Prose Edda. It can be translated to English as "forms of things" or "aspects of the world".

In the Prose Edda, áfangavörur are described as the different types of beings and objects in the world, such as gods, giants, humans, and natural phenomena like mountains and rivers. These forms are seen as having their own distinct characteristics and powers, influencing the world and shaping the lives of the inhabitants.

According to the Prose Edda, the god Heimdall is said to know all áfangavörur, signifying his all-encompassing knowledge and awareness. This emphasizes the importance of áfangavörur in the medieval Icelandic worldview, which saw the world as a complex web of interconnected and hierarchical entities.

The concept of áfangavörur is also related to the concept of skil inn alfregist (" skill of the wise"), which refers to the ability to understand and interpret the underlying order of the world. Áfangavörur, by extension, require a deep understanding of the workings of the world and its many aspects.

In medieval Icelandic literature, áfangavörur play a significant role, serving as a framework for describing the world and its many forms. The concept is often explored through lyrical descriptions of natural beauty, mythological beings, and the intricate connections between them. Through áfangavörur, the world is seen as a multifaceted and dynamic reality, with each aspect influencing and reflecting others.