Svipdagr (king)

Svipdagr, in Norse mythology, is primarily known as the protagonist of two Old Norse poems from the Poetic Edda, Grógaldr and Fjölsvinnsmál, which are sometimes grouped together as Svipdagsmál.

While the poems do not explicitly identify him as a king, the context and implications of the narrative suggest that he holds a position of nobility, and later interpretations have often referred to him as a king. He is presented as a young hero tasked by his stepmother to win the hand of the beautiful Menglöð, who resides in a fortress guarded by the giant Fjölsviðr and his hounds.

In Grógaldr, Svipdagr raises his deceased mother, the völva (seeress) Gróa, from her grave to seek her counsel and magical aid for his dangerous quest. Gróa bestows upon him nine protective spells.

Fjölsvinnsmál details Svipdagr's arrival at the fortress. Disguised and under an assumed name (possibly "Vindkaldr" or "Vindkalfr"), he engages in a riddle contest with Fjölsviðr, gradually revealing his true identity and the purpose of his visit. Ultimately, Menglöð recognizes Svipdagr, and the gates of the fortress are opened to him, presumably leading to their union.

The narrative of Svipdagr is considered incomplete and leaves many details ambiguous. His lineage prior to his father is not fully explained, nor is the nature of his stepmother's animosity. The significance of Menglöð is also subject to interpretation; some scholars believe she represents the earth or fertility, while others view her simply as a desirable maiden.