Science Vs Superstition

Norwegian Superstitions

Some believe apples are magical and keep Norse gods young and healthy
A cross or steel placed in a child’s cradle protects against trolls or supernatural beings swapping the child for their own
Huldra, a forest spirit, appears as a beautiful woman but is hollow or has a tail; she lures people into the forest
The kraken, a giant sea monster, is feared by sailors for dragging ships underwater
Draug, undead sailors, are omens of death for fishermen and sailors
The fossegrim, another water spirit, can teach you to play the fiddle if you offer him a goat
The nøkken, a water spirit, lures people to their doom with beautiful music
Nisse (household or barn gnomes) must be treated well, especially at Christmas, or they will play tricks on you
Trolls live in mountains and forests; exposing them to sunlight turns them to stone
White reindeer are considered good luck, and herders should have one in their herd