In Norse mythology, the Valkyries are warrior maidens who serve Odin. They choose which souls will die in battle and which will reside in Valhalla, the hall of the slain. The Valkyries symbolize valor and fate, providing warriors with a connection to the divine and the opportunity for glory after death. Their role reflects the Norse emphasis on honor in battle and the belief that one's actions in life determine their afterlife, intertwining themes of destiny, honor, and benevolence within the mythology.