One of the earliest references to the Helm of Awe seems to refer to it as a physical object. (Dbh2ppa / Public domain ) The Helm of Awe: Physical Object or Spell? The Helm of Awe or Helm of Terror is symbolic of a "vague artifact" described in the ancient pages of Norse mythology that also functioned as a form of magic, spell, or incantation. Few of these containing Viking spells have survived the ages, but in those that have, we find the Helm of Awe. While the spells of the Viking Age were not likely written down during their time, they were eventually collected into books that we now refer to as grimoires. They could also wield powerful magic to put a curse on someone to make them ill or ineffective in battle in myriad ways. The Völva could put themselves into trances, aided by singing and drums, and then walk between this world and the spiritual world to commune with spirits and make prophecies.
![ancient viking glyphs ancient viking glyphs](https://i.pinimg.com/originals/5a/c4/be/5ac4be7f840dfdd56fec1dec2b08fc08.jpg)
However, it must be noted that it was rare for men to practice magic as Völvas because it was considered unmanly or had non-warrior connotations. The Völva were marked by their clothing they wore colorful dresses, gloves, and fur hats, and carried some form of staff or wand with them to aid in the performance of spells. In Norse culture, they were wielders of magic powers and acted as healers or spiritual leaders. In fact, the Völva (Viking age women who practiced magic) predate the Viking Age.
![ancient viking glyphs ancient viking glyphs](https://i.pinimg.com/originals/ac/6c/2d/ac6c2da0de410969ce2fe336bffb96cf.jpg)
The Nordic religion believed in the existence of magic, which they called Seidr. What did it mean to the Icelandic cultures from whence it came, and what does it mean now? The Helm of Awe: For Magical Practitioners and Spells They also grow and change over time, their meaning evolving as society changes, and not always for the better. Symbols are an important, meaningful aspect of culture that can teach historians, archaeologists, and other scholars a great deal about specific groups of people. Every culture contains a plethora of images, animals, foods, etc.