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24.09.2019

Farbauti

Farbauti, whose name translates to "cruel striker" in Old Norse, is a jotunn (giant) in Norse mythology. He is primarily known as the husband of Laufey and the father of Loki, although there are also suggestions that he might be the father of other figures, such as Helblindi and Byleistr.

Farbauti's character and name are believed to be inspired by natural phenomena related to the appearance of wildfire, which aligns with the tradition of naming giants and other mythological beings based on observable natural events.

In the Prose Edda, specifically in the book Gylfaginning, it is stated that Loki is the son of the jotunn Fárbauti and that his mother is Laufey or Nál. This reference establishes Farbauti as Loki's father.

Additional mentions of Farbauti and his relationship to Loki can be found in Skaldskaparmal, a section of the Prose Edda. In this context:

1. Lokakenningar, or "ways of referring to Loki," include the description of Loki as the son of Farbauti and Laufey (or Nal).

2. Skald Ulfr Uggason, from the 10th century, is quoted as referring to Loki as "Farbauti's terribly sly son."

3. In the Haustlong by the 10th-century skald Þjóðólfr of Hvinir, Loki is again described as "Farbauti's son."

Farbauti's role in Norse mythology is relatively minor compared to that of his son Loki, who plays a more significant part in the myths and stories of the Norse pantheon. Nonetheless, Farbauti's presence adds depth to the genealogy and relationships within the mythology.

Farbauti

If, as according to Axel Kock, Farbauti as "dangerous striker" refers to "lightning", the figure would appear to be part of an early nature myth alluding to wildfire (Loki) being produced by lightning (Farbauti) striking dry tinder such as leaves (Laufey) or pine needles (Nal). Though not directly attested in any original source, scholars have considered Loki's brothers Helblindi and Byleistr to also be sons of Farbauti. However, their exact role in the presumably ancient mythic complex surrounding Loki's family remains largely unclear.

 

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