Askr and Embla
Askr and Embla, in Norse mythology, the first man and first woman, respectively, parents of the human race. They were created from tree trunks found on the seashore by three gods—Odin and his two brothers, Vili and Ve (some sources name the gods Odin, Hoenir, and Lodur). From each creator Askr and Embla received a gift: Odin gave them breath, or life, Vili gave them understanding, and Ve gave them their senses and outward appearance.
Citation Information
Article Title:
Askr and Embla
Website Name:
Encyclopaedia Britannica
Publisher:
Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
Date Published:
08 May 2020
Access Date:
March 14, 2025