The Golden Age of the Gods

What did the gods do during their golden age?

In “The Deluding of Gylfi,” the gods built Asgard at the center of the world. From his high seat, Hlidskjalf, Odin could look out over all the worlds. He could also see what people were doing.

In “The Seeress’s Prophecy,” the gods gathered at Idavoll. They built towering temples and set up a forge. They also made their own tools, including tongs for gripping metal. In the courtyard, they enjoyed board games and never lacked gold.

In “The Deluding of Gylfi,” the gods worked metal, stone, and wood. They used gold freely, too. They made even their everyday utensils and their horses’ gear from gold, so this time was called the golden age.

In “The Seeress’s Prophecy,” the gods’ happy life lasted until 3 immensely powerful maidens arrived from the land of the giants. In “The Deluding of Gylfi,” too, women from the land of the giants spoiled the golden age.

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