The Helm of Awe

By Crusader1307

Mentioned in numerous Sagas of both Icelandic and Norse Cultures, The ''Helm of Awe'', was not a Helmet at all. Rather it was a form of Talisman known as a Sigil. These were magical incantations written on some article (a wooden or steel amulet or Shield). Rarely were weapons such as Swords and Spears were thus marked. Akin to Runes, The ''Helm of Awe'' (also known as The ''Helm of Terror'') was bore by The Hero Sigurd (aka Siegfried), to kill a Dragon. The Amulet was said to ''confound'' an Enemy – thus allowing him to be slay in a more traditional vein. Roughly translated, The Sigil reads ''The Bearer Shall Dwell in The Halls of Vallhala'', referencing The Norse belief of Eternal reward in a ''Fallen Heroes Paradise''.