In Norse mythology, Ragnarök is a series of future events involving various natural disasters, giant combat, and the ultimate destiny of the gods. The prophecies of Ragnarök can be traced back to the ancient Völuspá, or “Prophecy of the Seeress.”

“Vafthrúdnismál: ‘In days to come, when seers foretell wars and wind-drifts, then will I describe to you the origin of the gods.’”
– From the Poetic Edda

The Prophecies Unfold

• Fimbulwinter: A three-year winter so severe that it will cover even the southernmost regions. This catastrophic winter is said to be brought on by wolves howling in the sky.
• Jormungandr’s Rising: The World Serpent, also known as Jormungandr, will rise from the ocean and cause massive tidal waves to ravage the land. This event is said to be a harbinger of the end times.
• Muspellheim’s Fire: The fire giant Surtur will ignite Muspellheim, his home in the south, and the flames will engulf the world, marking the beginning of Ragnarök itself.

The Battles Begin

• Fenrir’s Fury: Fenrir, the monstrous wolf son of Loki, will break free from his chains and attack Odin during Ragnarök. The god Tyr sacrificed one of his hands to bind Fenrir, but it is said that he will die in battle with him.
• The Giants’ Revolt: Jormungandr, along with the other giants and monsters, will wage war against the gods. The giant Hrym will challenge Thor to a duel; Thor will kill Hrym but be slain himself by the giant Magni, who is prophesied to be his son.
• The Twilight of the Gods: The world tree Yggdrasil will shake and shudder as the gods fall in battle. Odin and Thor will die fighting against their foes, but Balder and Tyr will return from Hel (the Norse underworld) to join the battle on the side of the gods.

Ragnarök’s Aftermath

“Vafthrúdnismál: ‘In days to come, I tell you of the fate of men. Fire shall melt the ice and iron be uncovered; a fiery wind blow in the sky.’”
– From the Poetic Edda

After Ragnarök, the world will be engulfed by flames. But from the ashes, a new earth and a new sun will rise. Two survivors—Loki’s son Narfi and Odin’s son Vidar—will repopulate the world with humans.