I know that there are some considerably powerful women in Norse mythology, but also know that a culture's mythology can often almost directly contradict the reality of their society.
So, how were Norse women treated? Were they still thought of as mere housewives like women farther south?
Women were generally quite well respected, however they were afforded no social equality in association with that. Like in many cultures at the time, Viking women could not vote, could not be a chieftain, could not offer witness, and could not speak at assemblies. Once married, they were considered subject and property of their husband.
Interestingly, Viking Women are often respected for their ability to drive men to action. Women were mostly motivators and inciters and could easily hang the threat of divorce over lazy/slovenly husbands in order to get them to do great things or die trying. Contrary to the rest of Europe for most of the Viking's peak, divorce was easy to carry out and was a bad thing for the men.
I'd also note Viking society was one of the earliest to adopt a rule banning "violence against women". I'd also note this rule was lifted during raids, where women were treated exactly as you'd expect from a Viking.
Similar questions have been asked before, here are a couple if you are interested: