The First Dwarfs

Where did the dwarfs come from?

In “The Seeress’s Prophecy,” the gods sat down together to discuss who should create the race of dwarfs. These dwarfs were to be made from Brimir’s blood and Blain’s legs.

Motsognir became the mightiest of the dwarfs, with Durin next. Following Durin’s words, the dwarfs beneath the earth made many humanlike figures. The poem then goes on to list many dwarfs by name.

“The Deluding of Gylfi” tells of a different beginning. The dwarfs were originally maggots born in Ymir’s flesh. The gods took their seats and recalled how the dwarfs had first come to life beneath the earth.

By the gods’ decision, the dwarfs gained human understanding. Their bodies also became humanlike. Even so, they continued to live in earth and stone. Here, too, Motsognir is named as the foremost dwarf, followed by Durin.

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