Eiríksmál

Eiríksmál is a skaldic poem composed in Old Norse, believed to have been written in the late 10th century. It commemorates the death of Erik Bloodaxe, a Norwegian king who ruled briefly in York. The poem is preserved, though incomplete, in Fagrskinna, a 13th-century Old Norse kings' saga.

The poem depicts Erik's arrival in Valhalla, the hall of slain warriors in Norse mythology. Odin, the chief god, is portrayed as expecting Erik and ordering heroes like Sigmund and Sinfjötli to greet the fallen king. The poem's central theme is the glorification of Erik's bravery and his acceptance into the company of legendary warriors.

Eiríksmál is a significant source for understanding Norse beliefs about the afterlife and the values prized in Viking society. It offers insights into the ideology of warrior culture and the role of the skald in memorializing kings and heroes. Its use of kennings and other skaldic devices reflects the sophisticated poetic techniques of the time. The poem also provides valuable information about historical figures, though its primary function is clearly celebratory rather than strictly historical.