Messenger of the gods.

Name(s): The word her-maðr is Old Norse/Old Icelandic for “warrior.” Properly, Hermod’s name in Old Norse would be Hermóðr.

Parents: Hermod’s father is Odin; his mother is unknown.

Spouse: Unknown.

Children: Unknown.

Affiliations: Hermod is one of the Aesir.

Tales: Hermod has an important role in the story of Baldr’s death. In Gylfaginning, after Baldr has made his way to the halls of Hel, Frigg asks for someone to ride to her and see if she can be convinced to release him. Hermod volunteers and makes the journey; once there, Hel tells him that she will release Baldr if every being on earth will weep for his loss. He then returns to the Aesir with gifts for Odin, Frigg and Fulla.

Other details: Hermod is the brother (or perhaps half-brother) of Baldr.