DVERG, pl. DVERGAR (Dwarf), mythological beings, of short stature, who dwelt in caverns and were skilful in the fabrication of metallic instruments. They are unable to bear the glare of the sun, and prefer to rove about at night. From this circumstance, and from their being at times disposed to mischief, they are considered as related to the giants; but they are employed both by gods and giants to make armour and other instruments for them. They are represented as being of an exceedingly timorous disposition.
DWARFS, see DVERG.
EIKTHYRNIR, name of the mythological stag which stands on the roof of the portal of Valaskialf, and from whose antlers springs a fountain which furnishes water to all the rivers of the earth. Etym.: eikt (vigils), hyrnir (horns).
EINHERIER, name given to mortal warriors deified for their valour, and admitted among the Asar; they are constant guests at the banquets of Valhalla. Their occupations and amusements are thus described in the prosaic Edda: “Every day they dress themselves in their armour, go out on horseback to fight, and cut at one another; thus they pass their time. But when the hour of repast approaches, they ride home to the palace, and take their seats at the banquet.” In the elder or poetic Edda, in the chapter called the Vaftrudnismal, are the following words concerning them:
“All the Einherier
In Odin’s domain,
Fight together daily,
And choose their prey of death:
From the battle they ride afterwards
To drink beer with the Asar,