/pol/ - International /Pol/itics & /Bant/er

Odin and White Supremacy: A Modern Misappropriation
There is no evidence in Norse mythology to suggest that Odin, a central god in the Norse pantheon, granted supremacy to white people. The association between Odin and white supremacy is a modern development, originating from the appropriation of Norse imagery and mythology by some white supremacist groups.[1][2][3][4] These groups, often identifying as Odinists or followers of Asatru, are drawn to a distorted and romanticized interpretation of Viking history, envisioning a past of a "pure" and heroic white race.[1][3]
This racist interpretation of Norse beliefs gained traction in the 20th century and continues today.[1][3] It is important to note that not all individuals who practice modern forms of Norse paganism are white supremacists.[3][5][6] Many contemporary followers of Asatru and other heathen faiths actively reject these racist ideologies.
Odin and LGBTQ+ in Norse Mythology
Norse mythology does not contain direct statements from Odin regarding LGBTQ+ individuals. The myths were part of an oral tradition and were later recorded by Christians, which can influence how they are interpreted today.[7][8] However, the mythology and Viking Age culture present a complex view of gender and sexuality.
While there were societal expectations regarding gender roles, and the term "ergi" was used to denote unmanliness, particularly for the passive partner in a male same-sex relationship, this did not equate to a universal condemnation of homosexuality.[7][9][10][11] Evidence suggests that same-sex relationships existed and were not considered inherently unnatural.[7][9]
Interestingly, some key figures in Norse mythology transgressed traditional gender norms:
Loki, the trickster god, is depicted as bisexual and gender-fluid, at one point transforming into a mare and giving birth to Odin's eight-legged steed, Sleipnir.[7]
Odin himself practiced seidr, a form of magic traditionally associated with women.[7][12][13][14] This has led some modern scholars to interpret Odin as a "queer" figure, one who transcended conventional gender boundaries.[12][13][14][15] By engaging in what was considered a female art, Odin demonstrated that his power was not confined by mortal concepts of masculinity.[12][14]
In conclusion, the association of Odin with white supremacy is a modern distortion of Norse mythology. Regarding LGBTQ+ themes, while the historical context differs significantly from contemporary understandings, the myths themselves feature deities who challenge and subvert traditional gender roles, including Odin himself.