Andvari

U 1163, Dr%C3%A4vle (Andvari)

Andvari is a figure from Norse mythology, known primarily for his role in the Völsunga saga and related mythological texts. He is a dwarf (or, in some accounts, an elf) who possesses the ability to change shape and is renowned for his wealth, particularly in gold and treasures. Andvari's most famous tale involves his encounter with the god Loki and the subsequent curse he lays upon his treasured ring, Andvaranaut.

Mythology

Andvari lives beneath a waterfall and guards his treasure with zeal. He is often depicted as a wise and cunning figure, capable of outsmarting most who would try to take his wealth. However, his encounter with Loki marks a turning point in his story. According to the myth, Loki, in order to fulfill a blood debt to the giant Hreidmar, captures Andvari in the form of a fish. Loki then forces Andvari to hand over his treasure, including the ring Andvaranaut, which Andvari tries to keep hidden due to its ability to generate gold.

Upon relinquishing his treasure, Andvari curses the ring, proclaiming that it would be the bane of whoever possesses it. This curse plays a significant role in the tragedies that befall the Völsung and Nibelung families, as depicted in the Völsunga saga and the Nibelungenlied, respectively.

Andvaranaut

The ring Andvaranaut is central to Andvari's tale and the larger narrative of the Völsunga saga. It symbolizes not only immense wealth but also the doom that can come from greed and deceit. The curse laid upon it by Andvari brings about the downfall of many heroes and kings, illustrating a common theme in Norse mythology: the perilous nature of fate and the inevitable downfall that comes from trying to avoid it.

Legacy

Andvari's story has influenced various aspects of modern culture, literature, and media. His tale, particularly the cursed ring, has been noted as an inspiration for J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. The themes of greed, curse, and tragic fate resonate in Tolkien's work, showcasing the enduring influence of Norse mythology on contemporary storytelling.

See Also

• Loki
• Dwarves (mythology)
• Völsunga saga
• Nibelungenlied