þegðir

Þegðir, also spelled "thagðir" or "thagther," is a term used in Old Norse and Old Icelandic literature to refer to a type of mythical or supernatural being. The term is derived from the Old Norse word "þegð," which means "power" or "strength." Þegðir are often described as powerful and sometimes malevolent entities, often associated with the natural world, such as mountains, rivers, or forests. They are not typically human-like in appearance but can take on various forms, including animals or inanimate objects. In some texts, þegðir are depicted as guardians or protectors of certain places or resources, while in others, they are portrayed as malevolent forces that must be appeased or avoided. The exact nature and role of þegðir vary depending on the specific text and cultural context in which they appear. They are a recurring motif in Old Norse and Old Icelandic literature, often serving to explain natural phenomena or to add a layer of mystery and wonder to stories.