Wotan meaning

Wotan is a powerful god in Norse mythology, associated with war, wisdom, poetry, and death.


Wotan definitions

Word backwards natoW
Part of speech Proper noun
Syllabic division Wo-tan
Plural The plural of Wotan is Wotans.
Total letters 5
Vogais (2) o,a
Consonants (3) w,t,n

Introduction to Wotan

Wotan is a prominent figure in Germanic mythology, particularly in Norse mythology. Also known as Odin, Wotan is the chief of the gods in the Norse pantheon and is associated with wisdom, war, poetry, and death.

Origins and Attributes of Wotan

Wotan is often depicted as a one-eyed, long-bearded old man with a spear. He is known for his relentless pursuit of knowledge and wisdom, as well as his role as a ruler and judge. Wotan is also associated with shamanism and magic, playing a crucial role in the practice of seiðr, a form of Norse magic.

Wotan in Norse Mythology

In Norse mythology, Wotan is a complex and multifaceted character. He is often portrayed as a wise and benevolent figure, but he also has a darker side. Wotan is a god of war and death, leading the valkyries in battle and presiding over the warriors in Valhalla, the hall of the slain.

Legacy of Wotan

Wotan's influence extends beyond Norse mythology. His name has been invoked in various cultural and artistic works, including the operas of Richard Wagner. The concept of the "Wotan archetype" has also been explored in depth by psychologist Carl Jung, who saw Wotan as a symbol of the collective unconscious.

Overall, Wotan remains a fascinating and enigmatic figure in Germanic mythology, embodying both the light and dark aspects of the human experience.


Wotan Examples

  1. In Norse mythology, Wotan is another name for the god Odin.
  2. The opera "Die Walküre" features Wotan as a central character.
  3. Some heavy metal bands draw inspiration from Wotan for their lyrics and imagery.
  4. Wotan represents war, wisdom, poetry, and death in Norse mythology.
  5. There are many variations of the name Wotan, such as Woden or Wotanaz.
  6. Wotan is often depicted with a spear and wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
  7. The character Wotan appears in Richard Wagner's "Ring Cycle" of operas.
  8. Some historians believe that Wotan was an important deity in early Germanic paganism.
  9. Wotan is sometimes associated with the concept of the Wild Hunt in folklore.
  10. Many modern pagans and heathens honor Wotan in their spiritual practices.


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  • Updated 18/04/2024 - 17:01:15