The afterlife according to Vikings: Valhalla and Ragnarok | Lars Brownworth and Lex Fridman

“This discussion delves into the polytheistic religion of the Vikings, highlighting their pantheon of gods such as Odin, Thor, and Freya, each with distinct domains. The Viking cosmology envisioned an eternal struggle between chaos and order, culminating in Ragnarok, the cataclysmic final battle where even the gods would perish. The afterlife included Valhalla, a warrior's paradise of endless fighting and resurrection, and Hel, a neutral underworld for most, emphasizing a culture that prized bravery. The conversation also explored how religious beliefs, like the importance of hospitality, functioned as a social technology to guide and stabilize Viking society in harsh environments.”