Friday was called "Frīgedæg," which translates to "Frigg's day."

 

HERA | JUNO | FRIGG

"Queen of the Gods"

Origin and Backstory

• Name: Hera (Greek: Ἥρα)
• Family: Hera is the daughter of the Titans Cronus and Rhea, making her a sibling to several major Olympian gods, including Zeus, Poseidon, Hestia, Demeter, and Hades.
• Marriage: She is primarily known as the wife of Zeus, the king of the gods. Their marriage is often depicted as tumultuous, marked by Zeus's numerous infidelities, which incite Hera's jealousy and wrath.
• Goddess of Marriage: Hera is the goddess of marriage and family, symbolizing fidelity and the sanctity of marital bonds. She is often invoked in wedding ceremonies and is seen as a protector of women.
• Symbols: Common symbols associated with Hera include the peacock (symbolizing beauty and pride), the pomegranate (representing fertility), and the diadem (indicating her status as queen of the gods).
• Cult and Worship: Hera was worshipped throughout ancient Greece, with major temples dedicated to her, such as the Heraion of Argos. Festivals like the Heraia celebrated her and emphasized her role in marriage and fertility.
• Mythological Tales: Many myths depict her as a powerful figure who often retaliates against Zeus’s lovers and their offspring. Notable stories include her role in the Trojan War, where she actively supported the Greeks against the Trojans due to her grudge against Paris, who had judged Aphrodite to be more beautiful.

Transition to Roman Mythology

JUNO

• Roman Equivalent: Juno is the Roman adaptation of Hera, embodying similar attributes as the goddess of marriage and women. The Romans retained many of Hera’s characteristics while incorporating their own cultural elements.
• Name and Worship: In Latin, she is called "Iuno," and like Hera, she was revered as the protector of marriage. The month of June is named after her, signifying a time for weddings.
• Cultural Integration: As the Romans expanded their empire, they adopted and adapted deities from other cultures, including the Greek pantheon. Juno retained aspects of Hera’s personality but also absorbed Roman values related to governance and the state. She was often depicted as more focused on societal stability and the welfare of the Roman people.

Transition to Norse Mythology

FRIGG

Frigg is often regarded as the queen of the gods and is associated with motherhood, marriage, and the home. Known for her wisdom and foresight, often depicted as a protective and nurturing figure. She is also associated with fertility and the domestic sphere. Frigg is the mother of Baldr, the god of light and purity. Her love for Baldr is a central theme in many myths, particularly the story of his death, which is deeply affecting for both her and the other gods. She is sometimes depicted as having the ability to see the future, although she can't change fate.

Day of Rest and Celebration:

Friday was often considered a day for feasting and celebration, particularly in relation to marriage and family, reflecting Frigg's associations. Fridays were sometimes seen as auspicious for weddings and romantic endeavors. Couples might choose to marry on this day, believing it would bring good fortune to their unions. In some Norse traditions, there were beliefs about avoiding certain activities on Fridays, such as starting new ventures or making significant decisions, as it was a day dedicated to Frigg and domestic matters.