Woden

The chief god of the Anglo-Saxons who invaded Britain in Arthurian times.

As Anglo-Saxon dynasties claimed descent from him, it has been suggested he was a leader who was later deified. According to Bede, the Saxons Hengist and Horsa were descended from him. Most commentators, however, echo J. Grimm in saying that he was always mythical.

In Scandinavian mythology he is called Odin or Oden. His name was given to the third day of the week - Woden's day, or Wednesday.