Völundur

Völundur is a name deeply rooted in Old Norse mythology and Germanic legend. It is the Old Norse form of the name Wayland, a legendary master blacksmith and craftsman. The most famous account of Völundur is found in the Poetic Edda, specifically in the poem Völundarkviða, where he is depicted as a prince of the elves (or a skilled human, depending on the interpretation) who is captured and mutilated by King Níðuðr, forcing him to forge treasures. In revenge, Völundur kills the king's sons and rapes his daughter before escaping.

The name's etymology points to a meaning related to skill and craftsmanship, reflecting the character's legendary abilities. While a prominent figure in myth, Völundur has historically been a rare name for actual people, likely due to the tragic and vengeful nature of his story. Its use today is primarily in Iceland and the Faroe Islands, where Old Norse traditions remain strong.