Slow Havamal: 107

In verse 107, Odin brags that he made skillful use of a disguise in bringing Oderrir to the rim of Midgard,, but that few things are too difficult for the wise.

The circumstances of Odin’s visit to Suttung’s hall, as described in Havamal at least, become even more perplexing when we learn that he used a disguise. Was he disguised the entire time, including when he made his speech earlier, or was it just to fool Gunnlod? To escape? I do recall in another version that he turned himself into an eagle, I believe, to get away, and he may he referring to this. Presumably the listener of the poem is expected to know this and other details—like the reference behind Rati’s tusk—so well that no explanation is required.( Read more... )