Trollkonan och Oraklet : En jämförande studie av magiska kvinnor i fornnordisk religion och antika Grekland

This thesis aims to compare the religious perceptions of women practicing magic in ancient Greece and Norse mythology. The focus is on how these women are portrayed in mythological sources, with attention to how the authors and their cultural contexts may have influenced these depictions. Additionally, the study reflects on the actual living conditions of these women by examining historical and archaeological sources. The research is based on previous studies, a close reading of the mythological narratives, and an exploration of archaeological findings. The results show that women in both mythologies are often depicted in an overly sexualized, and in Greek traditions a dramatic manner, while in Norse mythology they are portrayed as outcasts. However, historical and archaeological evidence suggests that these portrayals may not accurately reflect their real lives. The conclusion is that further research is needed in this area, with a focus on moving beyond written sources and developing new understandings through a greater emphasis on archaeological discoveries and historical documents.