Norse & Aborigine Mythology

1. Norse & Aborigine Mythology Group 5

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

3. 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

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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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.

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

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

10. Compare and Contrast • Similarities • Deeply influenced by religion • A great stillness in the beginning • Migrated long distances

11. Compare and Contrast • Differences • Climate • Aborigines conducted peaceful exploration while the Norse dominated the sea