Norse Mythology References in 'Harry Potter'

Essay from the year 2016 in the subject English Language and Literature Studies - Literature, grade: 1,3, University of Leipzig (Anglistik), course: Anglo-Saxon Literature, language: English, abstract: The word Mythology is derived from mythos, which means 'myth' (probably of unknown origin) and from logy meaning 'study'. Although themes of myths may differ, they usually describe basic aspects of existence; they introduce stories about the creation of Earth, mortality of human race, or the division of the year into seasons. From the ancient times people felt the need to explain all the phenomena affecting their lives and that is probably why they created myths and legends; they blamed bad weather conditions on evil forces and when something good affected their lives, they, on the other hand, worshipped those supernatural beings that helped them. The mythology in Rowling´s novels is undoubtedly noticeable at the first sight, at least for the more aware eyes. She makes references to many mythical creatures and even some character names or spells are created according to mythology elements.