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Huldras: Scandinavian Wood Nymphs
The word huldra comes a Scandinavian word “hidden” or “secret.” This word also lies behind the Icelandic term huldufólk, a euphemism used to avoid speaking directly about elves. Huldras are not the same as the bright and benevolent elves of Norse mythology, however. They are, in fact dangerous and seductive woodland sprites.
Huldras appear as stunningly beautiful women who are sometimes dressed in simple peasant garb. They are usually depicted with uncanny or animalistic features when viewed from behind, however. They might have a cow’s tail, for example, and in some stories, they have a hollow or bark-covered back.
In some legends, huldras lure men into the woods for romantic encounters. If a child results, they might reappear to the father to present him with their unearthly child. In other stories, they steal human infants and replace them with their own babies
Sometimes, it seems, a huldra finds true love with a mortal, but the glamour or illusion that conceals her inhuman aspects is broken at her wedding, either when she enters the church or when the priest places his hand on her. At the same time, other stories state that, once married to a Christian man, the huldra will loose her tail but retain her beauty.
Huldras can be fiercly vindictive if they are mistreated or betrayed. They are sometimes depicted with superhuman strength.
Huldras are known by other terms as well. In Norway, she might be called a skogsfru or skovfrue, “lady (or mistress) of the forest.” She might also be called a skogsrå (“forest-guardian”) or Tallemaja (“pine-tree Mary”) in Sweden or, among the Sámi, Ulda. She is likely related to the Germanic myth of Holda, a protectress of agriculture and women’s crafts.
The male counterpart of a huldra is called a huldu or (in Norway) a huldrekarl. By all accounts, the males are often just as seductive—and dangerous—as the females.
Interview: Kindreds
Into the Wonder: Your friend, Danny, thought I would like to interview you, Bryn. I hope that’s all right.
Bryn: Any friend of Danny’s is a friend of mine.
ITW: He speaks very highly of you.
B: Pooka and huldra, field and forest. We make a pretty good team.
ITW: And yet you seem so different. And not just your personalities. The more I learn about Your Kind, the more I’m amazed at how different you all look.
B: Part of that is magic. We can pretty much look however we want. And then, a lot of us are really into body modification.
ITW: You mean like piercings and tattoos?
B: Piercings, tattoos, hooves, antlers… The sky’s the limit, really. And, of course, the different kindreds all have their own particular look, if you know what I mean.
ITW: Kindreds? You mean different types of fae?
B: Presactly. Our Kind live all over the world, and we’re just as diverse as you people. Topsiders, I mean. And most of us value our heritage. Oh, not that I would think any less of Danny, for instance, just because he’s a pooka. But we all have our own ways, our own magics. It’s something to take pride in, you know?
ITW: And somehow, you all manage to get along?
B: Well, I’d say most of us at least try to stay out of each others’ way. There are some of Our Kind who are best left alone. Know what I mean? There’s no need to go asking for trouble.
ITW: So, some fae are more…agreeable…than others?
B: Isn’t it like that among you people?
ITW: Touché.
B: I think I like you, sweetie. You’re real easy to talk to.
ITW: Erm…thanks.
B: Is something the matter?
ITW: No, it’s just…well…
B: It’s the tail, isn’t it?
ITW: I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to stare.
B: Aw, you’re blushing! How cute! But it’s okay. Really. It’s just part of who I am. Nothing to be embarrassed about.
ITW: You’re very kind. I think that’s enough for now, though. This has been very enlightening. Shall I see you to the door?
B: Such a gentleman!
ITW: I’m a married man, Bryn. I’d appreciate if you’d stop batting your eyes at me.
B: Sorry. Force of habit.
ITW: Now you’re blushing.
Darrell J. Pursiful 