Christ and the corpse-devourer: A Norse cross in Kirk Michael

Dating back to the Vikings in the Isle of Man, Grim's cross is one of the most beautifully carved and interesting of all the Manx cross-slabs.

As well as the runes on the side, and the beautiful carved knot-work on the two faces, there are a number of figures on the cross-slab which are shrouded in mystery.
Is it Christ at his crucifixion, with Thomas' cockerel and an angel standing by? If so, it is a rare depiction of Christ clothed and without stigmata.
Is it a dragon on the other side, mirrored perhaps by Hrue-Svelgr, the Corpse Devourer, in the form of a bird? If so, who is the person being devoured?
There is so much to wonder about with this cross which combines Christian and Norse elements, leading to so many more questions about this fascinating period of Manx history...

This film is presented by Mike Clague, author of 'The Michael Crosses' (2021).
Sound recorded by Thomas Wylde.
The film was made with thanks to Michael Parish Church.
Grim's Cross is one of 12 cross-slabs from Michael on public display in the church daily: https://www.michaelparishchurch.com/

This film was produced by Culture Vannin in 2021.
Culture Vannin exists to promote and support all aspects of culture in the Isle of Man. We develop innovative, inclusive and exciting projects that promote and support all aspects of Manx culture.
https://www.culturevannin.im
  / culturevannin  
  / culturevannin