The English language and Viking tongue share a not so distant origin if you can believe it. Roughly 700 CE English began its emergence into the world. Back then it was referred to as Anglo-Saxon, rather than Old English by us modern folk, which was spoken by the Angles and the Saxons. At this time, the Germanic and Anglo-Saxon languages were still similar enough to form a cognitive bridge between these drifting worlds.
Many people, including myself, gravitate to the usage of Elder Futhark runes for a multitude of reasons. Whether it’s because “It’s the oldest”, or seems to have a stronger magical implication, or simply because the Younger Futhark forms seem more complicated or intimidating. Part of the allure may even be that Odin himself was said to have discovered the Elder Futhark and harnessed their power. Whatever the case may be, I have seen people use these runes in many ways, most of which in totally inappropriate and illogical applications. There has always been debate on the true origin and possible influence from outside cultures that manifested the Elder Futhark. Many people believe Greek and Roman literacy was a strong influence on the shapes the runes took on. But with the little evidence I have personally seen or heard of (outside of trade influence), I’m not fully convinced quite yet. The procession of rune evolution goes as followed:
Elder Futhark- (c.200-700 CE), with 24 characters.
Anglo-Frisian Futhark- (c.700-1000 CE), with 12 new characters and sounds added.
Medieval Futhark- (13th century CE)
Younger Futhark- (700-1300 CE), with 16 characters.
As previously stated, the origins of the Futhark is still debatable, but one of the earliest known inscriptions dates to about the 2nd century. Despite the amount of popularity and preference people have for the Elder Futhark its predecessor, the Younger Futhark, was the most frequently used amongst the
Viking age Norse cultures. The word rune has undergone a variety uses, such is the case with most words. Rune: counsel or consultation (about 725); In Old English, rūn/rūne, meaning secret or mystery (about 950); Song or poem (probably 1200); Middle English, rune/roune, meaning utterance, whisper, murmur, message (probably about 1175).
This is such a great look at the evolution of runes and how they connect to history and culture. I love the point about the Elder Futhark’s mystical appeal and how the Younger Futhark was actually the go-to during the Viking Age. It’s amazing how these ancient symbols still resonate today.
Óðinn’s story of discovering the runes really highlights the power of transformation and wisdom.