The old gods of Europe refer to the deities and mythological figures worshipped in various pre-Christian religions across the continent. Here are some notable examples:
1. **Norse Mythology**:
– **Odin**: The chief god, associated with wisdom, war, and death.
– **Thor**: God of thunder, known for his strength and protection of mankind.
– **Freyja**: Goddess of love, beauty, and fertility.
2. **Celtic Mythology**:
– **Dagda**: A father figure and god of fertility, agriculture, and strength.
– **Brigid**: Goddess of healing, poetry, and metalworking.
– **Lugh**: A hero and god associated with skill, crafts, and warfare.
3. **Slavic Mythology**:
– **Perun**: God of thunder and lightning, akin to Thor in Norse mythology.
– **Veles**: God of earth, waters, and the underworld, often in conflict with Perun.
4. **Greek Mythology**:
– **Zeus**: The king of the gods, ruler of Mount Olympus, associated with the sky and thunder.
– **Hera**: Queen of the gods, goddess of marriage and family.
– **Poseidon**: God of the sea, earthquakes, and horses.
5. **Roman Mythology**:
– **Jupiter**: Equivalent to Zeus, king of the gods.
– **Juno**: Equivalent to Hera, protector of the state and women.
– **Mars**: God of war, often associated with agriculture.
These deities were part of rich mythologies that explained natural phenomena, human emotions, and societal norms. Their stories and attributes continue to influence literature, art, and culture in Europe today.
See less
