By this I mean, there is a definite parallel between Hel and other underworld goddesses, Kore/Persephone in particular, although the concept may be extended to Inanna/Geshtinanna, who Gaiman regards as the same personage in Ishtar/Belili.
In the conception of Hel, she actually embodies the binary, being "half alive, half dead", where in the Greek and Mesopotamian versions, the underworld aspect is distinct from the regenerative aspect.
Related:
We see some reference to regeneration per her presumed ability to resurrect Balder, and also in the idea that "gifts are sent back to Frigg and Fulla by Balder's wife Nanna as from a friendly kingdom" (Davidson?), but is Hel related to Freyja per Frejya's awesome regenerative power? I find it notable that Freyja also presides over a selection of the dead.
