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ODIN
Like the other Norse gods, his functions are very complex, and it is difficult to describe precisely his role as a god.
He is often referred to in the sources by other names: frequently the nickname Allfather is used, other times he is called Ygg (the terrible), another name was Jolner, and under that Odin appeared as the god of the Winter Solstice Yuletide.
The many names reflect the many functions and roles Odin had. In myths he is often described as a tall, one-eyed, grey-bearded man, and in depictions he is seen riding the eight-legged horse Sleipnir with the spear Gungnir in one hand, followed by the ravens Huginn and Muninn and the wolves Geri and Freki. Odin was a shapeshifter by nature, he had countless forms and often appeared in disguise, as in one fable from the Old Edda. In the myths he is described as determined to acquire more knowledge and learning, and he often travelled far and wide, either flying like a bird or riding his horse.
Icelandic sources from the Middle Ages describe him as the head of the Aesir. They were the ruling race of gods, and in the Norse world view Odin was the most powerful king. The limited use of his name in place names compared to Thor and Freyr, for example, suggests that his cult was never very widespread, despite the fact that he was the king of the gods. Other sources show that it was mainly the elite who worshipped him.
Ordinary people would not turn to him, and so few places came to bear his name. In the three cases where we encounter the name Odinkar, for example, it was carried by individuals of noble lineage. In Norse mythology, the functions of the gods were not necessarily reserved for one deity, for example, Odin was not the only god of war to be worshipped.
The rather milder figure of Tyr was also worshipped. He was mainly venerated by ordinary warriors, while Odin was the god of chiefs and kings, even in war. Another god of war was Thor. His function, however, was largely linked to his role as protector of mankind against destructive and hostile forces. As a god of war, Odin was not always to be trusted, for even if he had promised victory, he could choose to give it to the opposing side.
