Loki and the Master Builder (and his horse)
The story of Loki and the Master Builder.
This story makes us wonder… are the Aesir really the good guys in Norse Mythology? This story may suggest otherwise, and what is the role of the Trickster in Scandinavian (and world) folklore - and in all our lives?
In this story from the Viking sagas, a Master Builder (really a Frost Giant in disguise) proposes to build an indestructible wall around Asgard to keep the Jötunn, trolls and other enemies of the gods at bay.
His price just is the sun, the moon, and the fertility goddess Freyja... and with the help of his magic horse Svadilfari, he looks like he might just win them.
Luckily Loki has a trick up his sleeve.
This myth is the origin story of Odin's steed, the 8 legged horse Sleipnir.
This tale is also an example of how the Trickster - a universal archetype in world mythology and folklore - can at times be a creative and useful force in world events - and human psychology.
For more information read 'Trickster Makes this World' by Lewis Hyde
Told by Anglo Irish storyteller Oliver Lavery