

This was one of many ways in which Odin constantly increased his knowledge. By dinnertime, they would return and report back on all that they had seen and heard as they flew over Midgard. They were his two most constant companions.Įach day at dawn, Odin would set the birds out into the world. How Odin used Hugin and MuninĪccording to 13th century writings, Odin had two ravens that he named Hugin (Thought) and Munin (Memory). They were not just practical agents of information, but also representations of the god’s powerful magical abilities. Many historians believe that these birds also served a symbolic purpose in Odin’s iconography.

They reported to Odin over dinner, serving as mythological news reporters. The most iconic source of the god’s knowledge was a pair of ravens named Hugin and Munin.Īccording to legend, the ravens flew over the world each day to gather news of what was happening. While these stories were dramatic, Odin also had ways to get information in day-to-day life.

He was willing to travel to Hel, give up an eye, and even make himself a human sacrifice to learn more about magic and fate. A recurring theme in the mythology of Odin is his constant search for information.
