Norse & Aborigine Mythology Group 5

Norse  Location & History –The Norse originated in Norway –In the 18 th century, Due to overpopulation and political unrest began expedition in the north Atlantic –Settled in the British Isles, Iceland, Greenland and Vinland (Newfoundland)

Norse  Creation Myth –In the beginning there was a limitless abyss called Ginnungagap –Two regions arose  Muspell – a land ablaze  Nifheim – Ice, snow and freezing fog –Two regions collide creating life

Norse  Religion –Vikings’ influenced by gods living in Asgard –made animal sacrifices to ensure happy gods –Later converted to Christianity  Icelandic  Sweden  Danish  Norwegian

Norse  Culture –Farms and Churches were central places –Domestic and Sea animals used for meat, clothing and oil –Long woolen shirts and trousers –In battle the wore Iron helmets and mail chain –“a-Viking” raids cause them to be feared throughout Europe

Aborigine  Location & History –Aborigines are indigenous to Australia –They migrated form Asia at least 30,000 years ago –Continue to make up 2% of Australia’s population

Aborigine  Creation Myth –The beginning of the world referred to as Dreamtime –Ancestors rose from below the earth to form various parts of nature including rocks, rivers, mountains, etc.

Aborigine  Religion –Do not place human species apart from or above nature. –Because their ancestors make up formations in nature, nature remains spiritually alive.

Aborigine  Culture –Learned to live with the land. They are great conservationists. –Nomadic hunters and gatherers –Storytelling, song and dance

Compare and Contrast  Similarities –Deeply influenced by religion –A great stillness in the beginning –Migrated long distances

Compare and Contrast  Differences –Climate –Aborigines conducted peaceful exploration while the Norse dominated the sea