Individuation Myths in Germanic Mythology: A Talk in Two Parts

A sequence of two connected presentations exhibit that Germanic mythology, frequently assumed to be primitive and barbarian, contains fundamental myths of individuation. The first presentation introduces essential elements of modern times that were developed in the Norse culture, but were repressed and demonized by Christianity. An evaluation of Ragnarök follows which is not an end time myth, but bring to mind sustainability and the rebirth of the New Earth. The second talk focuses entirely upon the main god of the Norse pantheon, Odin. It is shown that Odin prepares the future of humanity by integrating the mysteries of the Great Goddess with his self-sacrifice on the World Tree.

Part 2: Odin, a God for Our Times

The Poetic Edda unearths a primary narrative of individuation and self-realization. Extending his wisdom and consciousness, Odin introduced a vivid dialogue between the matri- and patricentric world views. In the poem Rúnatal (“Self-sacrifice on the World Tree”), Odin exemplifies a passionate interaction between the conscious and unconscious Self. Holding the tension of opposites, his self-sacrifice is characterized by independence and stimulation of the ego-Self axis. The hanging god symbolizes a prefiguration for individuation and self-realization. Through constant transformation and dedication to altering fate into destiny and by paving the way for achieving sustainability, Odin embodies a god for our modern times.