Who Is Gilling
Gilling is a giant who appears in the tale surrounding the mead of poetry. His fate is central to the chain of events that leads to the creation of this powerful drink. Though not a widely described figure his death sets the story in motion and reveals the dangerous cunning of the dwarfs Fjalar and Galar.
According to the myths the dwarfs take Gilling out to sea. When the boat overturns the giant cannot swim and drowns. The dwarfs then return to their hall and later kill Gillings wife as well deepening the tragedy.
These acts provoke the wrath of Gillings son Suttung whose vengeance results in the dwarfs surrendering the mead of poetry an enchanted drink that grants wisdom and the gift of verse.
Role in the Tale
Death at Sea
Gilling dies when the dwarfs overturn a boat during a trip across open water.
Cause of Vengeance
His son Suttung seeks justice leading to the dwarfs surrender of the mead of poetry.
Link to the Mead
Gilling is directly tied to the origins of one of the most famous magical objects in Norse lore.
The Tale of Gilling and the Mead of Poetry
The story begins with the dwarfs Fjalar and Galar capturing Gilling. They take him out to sea and overturn their boat. Since Gilling cannot swim he drowns. When they return they kill his wife as well showing no remorse for either act.
When Suttung learns of his parents deaths he captures the dwarfs and nearly kills them. To save themselves they offer him the mead of poetry a magical drink created from the blood of the wise being Kvasir.
Thus Gillings death indirectly shapes the entire story of the mead which later passes into the hands of Odin and becomes a symbol of poetic skill and divine inspiration.
Quick Facts
Associated Figures
Symbolism
Gilling symbolises the tragic cost that often lies behind great treasures in myth. His death reveals the dark side of the dwarfs and sets in motion a story that shapes poetry wisdom and magic for gods and humans alike.