The Norse Myths Chapter Summary & Analysis - Chapter 29, The Death of Balder; Chapter 30, Loki's Flyting; Chapter 31, The Binding of Loki; Chapter 32, Ragnarok Summary

Chapter 29, The Death of Balder; Chapter 30, Loki's Flyting; Chapter 31, The Binding of Loki; Chapter 32, Ragnarok Summary and Analysis

In an effort to protect Balder, his mother, Frigg, travels the world asking all animals, plants, stones and water not to harm Balder. Finally satisfied that Balder is safe the gods and goddesses return to their normal lives. The gods make a sport out of testing Balder's invincibility. Loki does not like the game and seeks to ruin the fun. In disguise Loki visits Frigg and learns that she did not get a vow of no harm from the mistletoe because it is so young. Loki hurries to gather mistletoe from a field near Valhalla. Loki returns to the hall and finds Balder's brother, the blind Hod. Loki offers Hod a mistletoe dart and says he will aid Hod's aim. The dart pierces Balder's chest and the beautiful god falls dead. Frigg asks for someone to volunteer to travel to Hel and ransom Balder from death. Heremod steps forward and...
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