Hel translates to something like hidden or concealed place which could be because of her role as ruler of the underworld, similar to Hades name translating to unseen one. In the eddas we have the story of her birth, her being thrown out of Asgard, as well as her being involved with the death of Baldur, and Ragnarök. Her mother is Angraboda. As for the death of Baldur she it is said that she is a gracious host and treats him well. She gives the gods a chance to get him back and says that if everything in existence weeps for Baldur she will let him return but a giantess, who is possibly Loki in disguise, refuses so he stays in Hel. During Ragnarök she assists Loki by giving him an army of the dead. As for her realm, it is the place of the sick and old as well as all the average people who didn’t die under special circumstances and go somewhere else. It is said that in Hel you meet your ancestors and drink and feast with them. Also, She has a Hound named Garm who guards the gates to Hel.