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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Thor asks the other person to tell him about the otherworldly names of which of the following?

2. Who will supposedly be turned into stone at the harbor?

3. What is the name of the tree of life?

4. Which character turns into a bird?

5. Who does Atli blame for barring ships from entering the fjord?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is Fafnir surprised at Sigurd's appearance?

2. According to the Seeress, who will avenge Baldr?

3. Explain the death of Hunding at Helgi's hand and the consequences.

4. How does the conflict begin in The Death of Sinfiotli?

5. How does the accusation against Gudrun occur?

6. How does the relationship form between Lord and Rig?

7. Why is it that Guthorm will not be blames for breaking the blood oath?

8. According to Sigrdrifa how can Sigurd avoid being charmed by another man's wife?

9. Why is Gudrun angry with her sons?

10. How does Gudrun respond to Atli's invitation to her brothers?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There were many important groups of people referred to in the Eddas. They include the gods, Norns, Niflungs, and so forth. Which was most important group? List the groups of people mentioned in the Eddas, put them into order of importance, and list the reasons why each group is important and/or powerful.

Essay Topic 2

Sigurd's and Brynhild's deaths bring about the aspect of Norse life regarding burial rites. Compare and contrast the burial rites of a hero versus a peasant. What is the major difference? Who typically handles the burial rites? Who was in charge of the funerals for Sigurd and Brynhild?

Essay Topic 3

Thievery is a common theme in the Elder Edda. There are many lays and poems that contain tales of thievery among family as well as among enemies. Discuss the theft of treasures from family members versus fallen enemies. Which is the worst crime: stealing from your kin of from a man that you killed? Discuss the moral and practical implications of theft.

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This section contains 581 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample