In the Norse myths there is a legend of war between the Aesir and Vanir pantheon of Gods/Goddesses. The Vanir pantheon are strongly associated with fertility, nature, and certain types of magic. The Vanir features powerful female figures, most notably Freyja, Goddess of love, beauty, and magic.

Many interpret this legend as representing a cultural shift where an older, and more matriarchal agricultural society that worshipped fertility gods was displaced and to some extent absorbed into a more war-like patriarchal society.

Freyja’s name comes from an old Germanic word meaning ‘Lady’ or possibly meaning ‘Lady of the Vanir’. She was often depicted riding a chariot drawn by large cats.

In some ways Freyja could be compared with the Greek Goddess of Love Aphrodite, and the Roman Goddess Venus though she also possesses much magic ...