Hervor

Hervor is a feminine given name of Old Norse origin. It is associated with both mythology and sagas of the Viking Age. The name's meaning is generally interpreted as "sword guardian" or "battle guardian," derived from the Old Norse elements herr meaning "army, host, war" and vǫr meaning "guardian, protector."

The name is most famously connected to two prominent figures in Norse literature:

• Hervör alvitr: A shieldmaiden and Valkyrie in Norse mythology mentioned in the Völundarkviða poem of the Poetic Edda.

• Hervör: The main character in the Hervarar saga ok Heiðreks (The Saga of Hervör and Heidrek), a legendary saga where she retrieves the cursed sword Tyrfing from her father's burial mound. This Hervör is depicted as a strong-willed and independent warrior woman.

The popularity of the name has fluctuated throughout history. While not exceedingly common in modern times, it remains a recognizable name within Scandinavian countries and among those interested in Norse history and mythology. The saga of Hervör is a particularly notable source for understanding the heroic ideals and social roles, both actual and imagined, of women during the Viking Age.