TROLD, in Swedish Troll, means an evil demon or goblin in the Scandinavian mythology; they were very fantastic and grotesque in their appearance. The French word drôle (anglicè droll) is probably derived therefrom, and was introduced by the Norsemen when they conquered Neustria.
TROLDKÆMPELAND; the giants’ territory was often so called. Etym.: trold (goblin), kæmpe (warrior), land (land).
TYR, an Asa, renowned for his valour, and younger brother to Thor. His celebrated adventure with the wolf Fenris, who bites off his hand, is related in the 26th canto of this poem. Etym.: tyr (brilliant renown).
ULLER, name of an Asa who presides over archery and duels.
URDA, name of the Norna or destiny of the past. Etym.: Icelandic word urdu (was).
UTGARD is the name of the territory of the giants. It was supposed to be to the north of Midgard, and that mountains of ice formed the barrier between the two regions. It also signifies the world below, and includes Jotunheim, Svartalfheim, Niffelheim, and Nastrond. Etym.: ut signifies exclusion, anglicè out, and the etymology of gard has been already given as meaning enclosure. Utgard-Lok is the ruler of Utgard.
UTGARD-LOK, see LOK.
VAFTRUDNER, name of a giant celebrated for his wisdom, who is consulted by Odin under the name of Gangrôd (weary wanderer.) Vaftrudner does not, it is true, figure in this poem, but I introduce him into my catalogue because I am obliged to quote some passages in a chapter of the Edda bearing his name, in order to elucidate a passage of Œhlenschläger. Etym.: vafi (eminent), drutna (to be proud).
VALA, name of the sibyl or prophetess of the Gothic mythology, who foretells the destruction of the world.
VALASKIALF, name of the palace of Odin, in Asagard, in which he holds his court.