THE NORSE MYTHOLOGY ENCYCLOPEDIA

A LIST OF THE ÆSIR AND VANIR GODS & GODDESSES OF NORSE MYTHOLOGY

Below I've listed many of the Giants from the norse Myths. Each one comes with the Old Norse name, Younger Futhark runic translation & a short synopsis. My Norse Mythology Encyclopedia eBook contains the entire Encyclopedia with over 150 pages and 250+ Bindrunes that I created for each name. I think you'll really enjoy reading through it!

THE GIANTS OF NORSE MYTHOLOGY

Aegir | Old Norse Ægir | Runes - ᛅᚴᛁᛦ

Ægir, a significant figure in Norse mythology, a sea god associated with the ocean's power and unpredictability. Ægir is often depicted as one of the Jötnar alongside his wife Rán. Given their involvement with the natural world, this isn’t an unreasonable assumption.

As the ruler of the sea, he often hosts feasts for the gods, symbolising the dual nature of the sea's bounty and danger. His presence highlights the deep respect and acknowledgment of the sea's elemental force in the Norse worldview.

Alvaldi | Old Norse Alvaldi | Runes - ᛅᛚᚢᛅᛚᛏᛁ

Alvaldi is a lesser-known figure in Norse mythology, a Jötunn who plays a pivotal role in the story of the creation of Freyja’s Brísingamen necklace. He is the father of Þjazi, who later becomes a prominent figure in the myths.

Alvaldi's presence contributes to the complex tapestry of Norse cosmology, linking him to both the giants and the gods through his family connections.

Angrboda | Old Norse Angrboða | Runes - ᛅᚴᚱᛒᚢᚦᛅ

Angrboða is a prominent figure in Norse mythology, known as the mother of monstrous beings. She resides in the land of the giants and is often depicted as a giantess herself. Angrboda is most notably the mother of three infamous children: the wolf Fenrir, the serpent Jǫrmungandr, and Hel, the ruler of the realm of the dead.

Her offspring play significant roles in the events leading to Ragnarǫk, the apocalyptic battle in Norse mythology, making Angrboda a key figure in the Norse cosmology's dramatic conclusion.

Aurboda | Old Norse Aurboða | Runes - ᛅᚢᚱᛒᚢᚦᛅ

Aurboða, a significant jötunn in Norse mythology, is known as the "gravel-bidder" or "gravel-offerer." She is the wife of the jötunn Gymir and the mother of Gerðr, who becomes the wife of the fertility god Freyr. Aurboða's presence adds depth to the intricate web of relationships within the Norse pantheon

Baugi | Old Norse Baugi | Runes - ᛒᛅᚢᚴᛁ

Baugi, a jötunn in Norse mythology and the brother of Suttungr, plays a pivotal role in the myth of the mead of poetry. In this tale, when Odin embarks on a quest to acquire the coveted mead, he assumes a disguise and seeks Baugi's assistance.

Baugi, unaware of Odin's true identity, agrees to help, and together they tunnel through a mountain to reach the mead's guardian, Gunnlod. Baugi's involvement underscores the intricate dynamics between gods and giants, ultimately enabling Odin to obtain the mead and embodying the quest for knowledge and power.

Beli | Old Norse Beli | Runes - ᛒᛁᛚᛁ

Beli, a jötunn in Norse mythology, meets his fate at the hands of the Vanir god Freyr, as depicted in various eddic poems.

During their confrontation, Freyr is forced to fight weaponless against Beli as he gave his sword to his Servant Skírnir. He ultimately vanquishes Beli with a stag's antler. This episode is woven into the tapestry of Norse myth, portraying the intricate relationships between gods, giants, and the various conflicts between them.

Bergelmir | Old Norse Bergelmir | Runes - ᛒᛁᚱᚴᛁᛚᛘᛁᛦ

Bergelmir, a jötunn in Norse mythology, survives the primordial flood triggered by the actions of Odin and his brothers in slaying the primordial giant and grandfather to Bergelmir - Aurgelmir (Ymir). He and his family evade the flood's devastation by seeking refuge on an enigmatic "lúðr" (possibly a "coffin," "cradle," or "chest").

This choice leads to the emergence of a new jötunn lineage, illustrating the cyclical interplay of creation and destruction inherent in Norse cosmology. His father is Þrúðgelmir.

Bestla | Old Norse Bestla | Runes - ᛒᛁᛋᛏᛚᛅ

Bestla, a notable figure in Norse mythology, is a jötunn, portrayed as the daughter of the giant Bölþorn and the spouse of Borr. She holds the esteemed role of being the mother of Óðinn, Vili, and Vé, pivotal figures in the Æsir pantheon.

Bestla's lineage and maternal role emphasise her integral part in the origins and dynamics of the Norse divine family.

Bölthorn | Old Norse Bǫlþorn | Runes - ᛒᛅᛚᚦᚢᚱᚾ

Bǫlþorn, a jötunn in Norse mythology, is known as the father of Bestla, making him the grandfather of Odin, Vili, and Vé. Although limited details exist about Bǫlþorn's specific roles or actions, his lineage establishes a vital connection to the Aesir pantheon.

As the patriarch of the family line, Bǫlþorn contributes to the intricate web of relationships that shape the Norse mythological narrative. His name translates to “evil-thorn”.

Býleistr | Old Norse Býleistr | Runes - ᛒᚢᛚᛅᛁᛋᛏᛦ

Býleistr, a figure in Norse mythology, is the brother of the god Loki and the son of the jötunn Fárbauti. While not extensively featured in myths, his familial connections tie him closely to the trickster god Loki. Loki is frequently reffered to as bróðir Býleists (Byleist's brother).

His presence adds depth to the complex web of relationships within the Norse pantheon, reflecting the intricate interplay between gods and giants.

Eggthér | Old Norse Eggþér | Runes - ᛁᚴᚦᛁᛦ

Eggþér, a jötunn in Norse mythology known as the "Edge-Servant," plays a role in the poem Völuspá. He is depicted as the caretaker or herder of a female jötunn, likely Angrboða, and her monstrous wolves in Járnviðr (Ironwood). In the poem, Eggþér joyfully plays his harp as the red rooster Fjalarr announces the coming of Ragnarök, symbolizing the impending cosmic battle.

His name, derived from his function as an arousing force in the battle, shares a kinship with the Old English name Ecgþéow, reflecting their roles as catalysts for battles and feuds.

Fárbauti | Old Norse Fárbauti | Runes - ᚠᛅᚱᛒᛅᚢᛏᛁ

Fárbauti, a jötunn in Norse mythology, is known as “Dangerous Striker”, “Anger Stiker” or “Sudden Striker”. In all sources, he is known as the father of the trickster god Loki, through his union with Loki’s mother Laufey (or Nál).

Fárbauti's presence adds layers of complexity to the Norse pantheon, embodying the interplay between gods and giants, and the intricate relationships that shape the mythological narrative.

Fjölvar | Old Norse Fjǫlvar | Runes - ᚠᛁᛅᛚᚢᛅᛦ

Fjǫlvar, possibly a jötunn being in Norse mythology, is a more obscure figure mentioned in one tale where Odin, disguised as Hárbarð, interacts with him on the island of Algrœn ("All-green"). In this narrative from the Hárbardsljód poem, Odin recounts spending five years with Fjǫlvar, during which they engaged in fighting and shared experiences with women.

The episode offers a glimpse into the mythological interactions and adventures of these characters, shedding light on the complexities of Norse storytelling.

Fornjót | Old Norse Fornjótr | Runes - ᚠᚢᚱᚾᛁᚢᛏᛦ

Fornjót, an influential jötunn in Norse mythology, assumes the roles of a significant progenitor and a legendary ruler. He is the father of notable elemental beings - Hlér, Logi, and Kári - symbolizing sea, fire, and wind.

Additionally, Fornjót's name is associated with a legendary reign over "Finnland and Kvenland," showcasing his diverse mythological connections.

Gangr | Old Norse Gangr | Runes - ᚴᛅᚾᚴᛦ

Gangr is a jötunn in Norse mythology, characterised as the son of Alvaldi and the sibling of Þjazi and Iði. The name "Gangr" translates to 'traveller', reflecting his role as a figure on the move.

In Skáldskaparmál, Gangr's origin is linked to his wealthy father Alvaldi, and his unique division of inheritance, making gold the "mouth-tale" of the giants in Norse traditions.

Geirröd | Old Norse Geirrǫðr | Runes - ᚴᛅᛁᚱᛅᚦᛦ

Geirröðr, a jötunn in Norse mythology, holds significance as the father of the giantesses Gjálp and Greip, both of whom meet their end at the hands of the thunder-god Thor. His role is detailed in the skaldic poem Þórsdrápa and recounted by Snorri Sturluson in Skáldskaparmál, as well as in Gesta Danorum by Saxo Grammaticus.

This jötunn's influence extends even to the celestial realm, with Saturn's moon Geirrod being named in his honour. Geirröðr is slain by thor after tricking and challenging him to a game in Skáldskaparmál.

Gilling | Old Norse Gillingr | Runes - ᚴᛁᛚᛁᚴᛦ

Gillingr (also Gilling) is a jötunn in Norse mythology, recognised as the father of Suttungr. He meets a tragic fate at the hands of the dwarfs Fjalar and Galar, who overturn his boat, leading to his drowning.

Seeking vengeance, his son Suttungr forces the dwarfs to provide him with the mead of poetry. Gillingr's story is intertwined with themes of retribution and the quest for mystical knowledge.

Gjálp & Greip | Old Norse Gjálp & Greip | Runes - ᚴᛁᛅᛚᛒ & ᚴᚱᛅᛁᛒ

Gjálp and Greip, two Jötnar daughters of Geirröðr in Norse mythology, come to the fore in Skáldskaparmál's account of Thor's encounters. Gjálp stands astride the Vimur River, compelling its rise by means that suggest bodily fluids. Thor reacts swiftly, hurling a massive stone to counter her influence and safely navigate the waters.

Subsequently, at the residence of the jötunn Geirröðr, Thor confronts Gjálp and her sister Greip as they attempt to trap him in a perilous chair-lifting manoeuvre. Thor's ingenious resistance results in the deaths of the two sisters, cementing their place in the Norse mythos.

Gríd | Old Norse Gríðr | Runes - ᚴᚱᛁᚦᛦ

Gríðr, a prominent figure in Norse mythology, holds the dual roles of aiding the god Thor and being the mother of Víðarr. She assists Thor by providing him with essential magical items, such as the iron gloves, staff, and belt, during his expedition to confront the giant Geirröðr.

Gríðr's significance extends to her role as Víðarr's mother, emphasizing her connections both to powerful deities and to important aspects of the mythological narrative.

Gunnlöd | Old Norse Gunnlǫð | Runes - ᚴᚢᚾᛚᛅᚦ

Gunnlǫð, a jötunn in Norse mythology, stands as the guardian of the mead of poetry, a role entrusted to her by her father Suttungr. Her name, derived from Old Norse roots meaning 'war-invitation' or 'battle-invitation,' carries the essence of her protective duty.

This potent mythological figure's connections extend even to celestial bodies, with Saturn's moon Gunnlod named in her honour, and there is speculation about her possible role as the mother of the skaldic god Bragi.

Gymir | Old Norse Gymir | Runes - ᚴᚢᛘᛁᛦ

Gymir, a notable character in Norse mythology, is a jötunn recognised as the father of the giantess Gerðr and the husband of Aurboða. It’s possible that he may be identified with Ægir, or potentially a distinct entity sharing the same name.

This, however, is something debated among scholars, so take it with a heavy grain of salt. Gymir's significance extends to the narrative of Freyr's pursuit of Gerðr, underscoring the intricate relationships between gods and giants in Norse mythology.

Harthgrepa - Old Norse Harðgreipr | Runes - ᚼᛅᚱᚦᚴᚱᛅᛁᛒᛦ

Harðgreipr ('Hard-grip') stands as a formidable jötunn in Norse mythology. Her presence is vividly portrayed in Gesta Danorum, where she emerges as the daughter of the jötunn Vagnophtus and takes on the role of nurse, lover, and travel companion to the Danish hero Hadingus.

In this tale of revenge following the murder of King Gram, Harthgrepa's name, reflecting her exceptional strength, becomes synonymous with her gripping prowess, evident when she contends with a colossal hand seeking entry into her shelter.

Helblindi | Old Norse Helblindi | Runes - ᚼᛅᛚᛒᛚᛁᚾᛏᛁ

In Norse mythology, Helblindi, a jötunn whose name translates to 'Helblind,' is a lesser-known figure in Norse Mythology. According to Snorri Sturluson, Helblindi is recognised as the brother of Loki and Býleistr.

Interestingly, Helblindi also appears as one of the epithets used by Odin, highlighting the intricate connections between these divine entities.

Helreginn | Old Norse Helreginn | Runes - ᚼᛅᛚᚱᛁᚴᛁᚾ

In Norse mythology, Helreginn, often translated as "Ruler over Hel" or "Hell-power," is a jötunn associated with the realm of Hel. While the name is unusual due to its direct connection with "the underworld," its meaning and significance remain a mystery.

Mentioned in Skáldskaparmál's þulur section, Helreginn's presence is noted, yet detailed information about this figure remains scarce within the surviving texts.

Hljod | Old Norse Hljóð | Runes - ᚼᛚᛁᚢᚦ

Hljóð, also known as Hljod or Ljod, a jötunn in Norse mythology, holds a significant role in the tales of Völsunga saga. She is depicted as the spouse of Völsung, mother of Sigmund and Signy, and daughter of the jötunn Hrímnir. Her name, Hljóð, translates to 'howling,' and her complex character is interwoven with divine connections, including being a 'wish-maiden' of Odin, possibly signifying her role as a Valkyrie.

The saga portrays her intriguing transformation into a crow, offering the apple of fertility to Rerir, which eventually shapes the destiny of her lineage.

Hræsvelgr | Old Norse Hræsvelgr | Runes - ᚼᚱᛅᛋᚢᛁᛚᚴᛦ

In Norse mythology, Hræsvelgr is a significant figure associated with the cosmos and natural phenomena. Often depicted as a jötunn in the form of a giant eagle, Hræsvelgr occupies the northernmost reaches of the world and plays a pivotal role in the shaping of the winds that influence sea currents and tides.

As a symbol of the interconnectedness of nature and mythology, Hræsvelgr's presence underscores the intricate web woven throughout Norse cosmology.

Hrimgerdr | Old Norse Hrímgerðr | Old Norse - ᚼᚱᛁᛘᚴᛁᚱᚦᛦ

Hrímgerðr, a lesser-known figure in Norse mythology, emerges as a frost giantess with connections to the natural world. Often depicted as a guardian of the wilderness, Hrímgerðr's name translates to "Frost Gerðr," indicating her association with wintry elements.

Found in Helgakviða Hjörvarðssonar, Hrímgerðr introduces herself as the daughter of the jötunn Hati and plays a role in the fate of the hero Helgi Hundingsbane through a contest of flyting, ultimately transforming into stone with the sunrise.

Hrímgrímnir | Old Norse Hrímgrímnir | Runes - ᚼᚱᛁᛘᚴᚱᛁᛘᚾᛁᛦ

Hrímgrímnir, often known as "frost-masked," emerges as a jötunn in Norse mythology, his role extending beyond mere description. Skírnir, Freyr's servant, invokes Hrímgrímnir in the context of a coerced marriage proposal to Gerðr, another jötunn.

This figure's significance lies in the Lay of Skírnir, where the threat of a union with Hrímgrímnir in Hel is utilised to influence the course of events, illustrating the intricate interactions between gods and jötnar within Norse narratives.

Hrímnir | Old Norse Hrímnir | Runes - ᚼᚱᛁᛘᚾᛁᛦ

Hrímnir, an enigmatic jötunn in Norse mythology, bears a name evoking his frosty essence as "the one covered with hoarfrost" or "the sooty one."

Reverberating throughout various sources, Hrímnir's role extends to familial connections, notably as the father of Hljóð. Found in the
Völsunga saga and Prose Edda's þulur, Hrímnir's presence bridges the realms of giants and gods, underscoring the significance of even the more obscure figures in the complex Norse mythos.

Hroðr | Old Norse Hróðr | Runes - ᚼᚱᚢᚦᛦ

Hróðr, an intriguing female jötunn in Norse mythology, earns her name's meaning of "famed" through her enigmatic role. Featured in the Eddic poem Hymiskviða, where Thor is described as "Hróðr's adversary," her significance is complex.

The poem's ambiguity has led to debates about whether Hróðr is the mother of Týr, associated with the friendly giantess spouse of jötunn Hymir, or potentially an undisclosed adversary of Thor. This uncertainty reflects the intricate narratives that shape Norse mythology, showcasing the nuanced relationships between gods and jötnar.

Hrungnir | Old Norse Hrungnir | Runes - ᚼᚱᚢᚴᚾᛁᛦ

Hrungnir, a prominent jötunn in Norse mythology, captures attention for his imposing stature and confrontational nature towards the gods. Engaging in a daring wager with Odin, Hrungnir challenges the swiftness of Odin's steed, Sleipnir, with his own horse, Gullfaxi, ultimately resulting in a victory for Sleipnir.

This event leads to Hrungnir's drunken and disruptive presence within Ásgard, prompting the gods to summon Thor to confront him. The encounter culminates in a fierce battle, during which Thor employs his mighty hammer, Mjölnir, to vanquish Hrungnir and end his reign of challenge.

Hrym | Old Norse Hrymr | Runes - ᚼᚱᚢᛘᛦ

Hrymr, also known as Hrym or Rym, emerges as a significant jötunn within Norse mythology, particularly in the context of Ragnarǫk, the final battle. In the prophetic accounts of Völuspá, Hrymr leads the legions of jötnar, or giants, from the east to the field of Vígríðr, where they confront the Æsir.

This dire confrontation is epitomised in his role as the captain of Naglfar, the ship that will bear the enemies of the gods during Ragnarǫk, contrasting the version of the story where Loki is traditionally associated with steering the vessel.

Hymir | Old Norse Hymir | Runes - ᚼᚢᛘᛁᛦ

Hymir, a significant jǫtunn in Norse mythology, gains prominence for his ownership of a brewing-cauldron sought by the thunder god Thor on behalf of Ægir. In the narrative of Hymiskviða, Hymir is depicted as the father of the god Týr.

The story unfolds with Thor obtaining the cauldron, and the saga also portrays the extraordinary fishing expedition where Hymir's ox head serves as bait to catch Jǫrmungandr, the Midgard serpent. Thor is unsuccessful in this venture, but this isnt the last time those two fated rivals would meet.

Hyrrokkin | Old Norse Hyrrokkin | Runes - ᚼᚢᚱᚢᚴᛁᚾ

Hyrrokkin, a mysterious and powerful jötunn in Norse mythology, emerges as a key figure during the cremation of the god Baldr. Her might is evident as she propels Baldr's ship into the sea, setting the stage for his funeral pyre. This act showcases Hyrrokkin's significance in the mythological narratives, where her actions contribute to the unfolding of divine events.

Her distinct name, translated variously as 'fire-withered,' 'fire-steamer,' or 'fire-smoked,' adds to her enigmatic persona, while her depiction on the DR 284 stone near Marsvinsholm, Sweden, reflects her lasting influence on Norse lore.

Idi | Old Norse Iði | Runes - ᛁᚦᛁ

Iði, a jötunn within Norse mythology, emerges as a figure with familial ties to some of the well-known giants. As the son of Alvaldi and sibling to Þjazi and Gangr, Iði's lineage connects him to a lineage of notable jötnar.

His name, which translates to the 'active one' or 'hard-working one,' reflects his subtle significance within the mythos, and his presence is documented in the Skáldskaparmál, showcasing his role within the intricate web of Norse lore.

Im | Old Norse Ím | Runes - ᛁᛘ

Ím, a jötunn within Norse mythology, emerges as the son of Vafthrudnir, another prominent figure in the tales. The name Ím has been associated with various meanings, such as 'dust,' 'smell,' 'soot,' 'heat,' or 'steam.'

While his presence is limited in the surviving texts, his appearance in both the Poetic Edda's Vafthrudnismal and Snorri Sturluson's Skaldskaparmal adds a subtle layer of complexity to the interconnected stories of gods and giants.

Járnsaxa | Old Norse Járnsaxa | Runes - ᛁᛅᚱᚾᛋᛅᚴᛋᛅ

Járnsaxa is a jötunn in Norse mythology, often linked romantically with Thor, the thunder god. Her name translates to 'Iron Dagger,' reflecting her association with sharp metal objects. Though her appearances in surviving texts are limited, her significance lies in her role as a possible mother to Thor's sons, Magni and Modi.

Interestingly enough, she is mentioned as one of the Nine Mothers of Heimdallr according to Hyndluljóð, further adding to the complexity and variation of details among the surviving sources of Norse Myth.

Laufey/Nal | Old Norse Laufey/Nál | Runes - ᛚᛅᚢᚠᛁ/ᚾᛅᛚ

Laufey is a figure in Norse mythology, often identified as the mother of Loki, the trickster god. Her presence is limited primarily to being mentioned as Loki's parent and not extensively explored in the myths. While Laufey's role as an individual is relatively minor, her significance is large due to being the parent of one of the most influential figures in the entire mythology.

Laufey is listed among the Ásynjar (goddesses) and the meaning of her name is still unclear to this day. Nál, however, means ‘needle’, and that is about all we know of this enigmatic figure.

Leikn | Old Norse Leikn | Runes - ᛚᛅᛁᚴᚾ

Leikn, a female jötunn in Norse mythology, is mentioned in ancient texts as one of the giants slain by Thor. She is listed among many others by the 10th centry Skald Vetrliði Sumarliðason.

The Old Norse name "Leikn" translates to 'trickery', and her significance is embedded in her role as a slain jötunn. Skaldic poems use her name in kennings, contributing to her presence in Norse poetry.

Litr | Old Norse Litr | Runes - ᛚᛁᛏᛦ

Litr, meaning 'colour' or 'appearance' in Old Norse, is a name associated with both a dwarf and a jötunn in Norse mythology. In Snorri Sturluson's accounts, Thor kicks the dwarf Litr into Baldr's funeral pyre, and Litr is also listed as a dwarf in Völuspá.

Additionally, Litr is mentioned in poetic kennings, once referring to Thor's adversary and potentially suggesting a jötunn identity.

Logi | Old Norse Logi | Runes - ᛚᚢᚴᛁ

Logi is a jötunn representing fire and flames in Norse mythology. Born from the jötunn Fornjótr, he's the sibling of Ægir, the embodiment of the sea, and Kári, the personification of wind. The Prose Edda's Gylfaginning recounts a tale where Logi engages in an eating competition with Loki, showcasing his fiery nature as he consumes not only the meat but also the bones and the wooden trencher.

This story highlights Logi's association with the destructive force of fire. This aspect of Thor and Loki’s journey to the castle Útgarða-Loki serves as a standout moment in the Mythology, and a humbling moment for Loki.

Mögthrasir | Old Norse Mǫgþrasir | Runes - ᛘᛅᚴᚦᚱᛅᛋᛁᛦ

Mǫgþrasir, possibly meaning "the one who is striving for sons," is a jǫtunn mentioned in Norse mythology solely in stanza 49 of the poem "Vafþrúðnismál" from the Poetic Edda. During a contest of wisdom between Odin and the giant Vafþrúðnir, Mǫgþrasir is referenced as the progenitor of three maidens who bring luck to the world.

The identities of these maidens are, like many other familial ties in Norse Mythology, unknown, adding yet another subtle layer of complexity and mystery to the Norse Myths.

Narfi (Jǫtunn) | Old Norse Narfi | Runes - ᚾᛅᚱᚠᛁ

Narfi is a jötunn in Norse mythology and is considered the father of Nótt, the personification of night. Narfi is a jötunn that causes confusion due to sharing a name with the son of Loki. Alernative names for this jötunn are Nörfi or Nörr. The name Nörr is associated with meanings like "night" or "narrow," potentially conveying a sense of darkness or confinement.

Variations of Narfi's name appear in different Old Norse sources, highlighting his role as the progenitor of Nótt in Norse cosmology.

Rán | Old Norse Rán | Runes - ᚱᛅᚾ

In Norse mythology, Rán is a sea goddess, often associated with plundering and capturing. She is the wife of Ægir, another sea personification, and together they have nine daughters symbolising
waves.

Rán is mentioned in many Old Norse poems, hinting at her significance within the larger world of Norse Mythology. She is often depicted as a jötunn, which isn’t 100% confirmed, but would not be an unreasonable assumption given her ties to the sea and natural world.

Skadi | Old Norse Skaði | Runes - ᛋᚴᛅᚦᛁ

In Norse mythology, Skaði is a formidable jötunn (giantess) associated with winter, skiing, and hunting. She sought revenge for the death of her father Þjazi, a jötunn slain by the gods. In pursuit of justice, she confronted the gods and demanded restitution, leading to a unique marriage arrangement with the god Njörðr.

Though the gods reprimanded her for choosing her husband by his feet rather than his face, Skaði's tale exemplifies the interplay between the jötnar and the Aesir, ultimately finding a balance between their contrasting realms.

Sökkmímir | Old Norse Sǫkkmímir | Runes - ᛋᛅᚴᛘᛁᛘᛁᛦ

Sǫkkmímir, a notable jötunn of Norse mythology, is featured in both Grímnismál and Ynglingatal. In Grímnismál, Odin claims to have deceived and slain this ancient jötunn, while in Ynglingatal, the subterranean dwellings of jötnar are referred to as Sǫkkmímir's halls.

These sources suggest Sǫkkmímir's significance as a well-known figure in the Norse mythological tradition, despite not much else being known about him.

Surtr | Old Norse Surtr | Runes - ᛋᚢᚱᛏᛦ

Surtr, a powerful figure in Norse mythology, is a jötunn associated with fire and chaos. He plays a pivotal role in the cataclysmic event of Ragnarök, leading the legions of fire giants "Múspell's sons" in an apocalyptic battle against the gods.

Surtr will face and defeat the god Freyr in battle. Armed with the fiery sword that engulfs the world in flames, Surtr's appearance marks the ultimate destruction and rebirth of the cosmos.

Suttungr | Old Norse Suttungr | Runes - ᛋᚢᛏᚢᚴᛦ

Suttungr, a notable jötunn in Norse mythology, is best known for being the guardian of the poetic mead of wisdom. He obtained the mead after his father, the giant Gilling, was killed by the dwarves Fjalar and Galar.

When Odin sought the mead, he engaged in a cunning and daring scheme to deceive Suttungr and ultimately managed to acquire the mead of poetry, enhancing the wisdom of the gods.

Thiazi | Old Norse Þjazi | Runes - ᚦᛁᛅᛋᛁ

Þjazi, a powerful jötunn in Norse mythology, is widely recognized for his role in the abduction of the goddess Iðunn and the subsequent events that led to the weakening of the gods. Þjazi, in the form of an eagle, kidnaps Iðunn from Asgard, causing the gods to age without her magical fruits.

With the help of Loki, the gods devise a plan to rescue Iðunn and murder Þjazi, ultimately restoring their vitality and strength. This promoted Skaði to don her war gear and seek regenge on the Æsir.

Thokk | Old Norse Þǫkk | Runes - ᚦᛅᚴ

In Norse mythology, Þǫkk is a mysterious figure who plays a crucial role in the downfall of the god Baldr. When the gods attempt to get everything in existence to weep for Baldr's return from the dead, Þǫkk refuses to mourn, contributing to Baldr's fate. This enigmatic character's true identity remains a subject of speculation and debate among scholars.

One theory suggests that Þǫkk is none other than Loki in disguise, which would make sense in the context of the story, given Loki’s malicious involvement in the death of Baldur.

The word Þǫkk translates to "Thanks"

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Thrívaldi | Old Norse Þrívaldi | Runes - ᚦᚱᛁᚢᛅᛚᛏᛁ

In Norse mythology, Þrívaldi, meaning "thrice mighty," is a jǫtunn defeated by Thor. Snorri Sturluson's Skáldskaparmál notes that "killer of Þrívaldi" is a kenning for Thor.

Bragi Boddason's stanza speaks of Thor cleaving apart Þrívaldi's nine heads, while Vetrliði Sumarliðason praises Thor for battering Þrívaldi. All of this evidence suggests that this jötunn met a brutal demise at the hands of Thor.

Thrudgelmir | Old Norse Þrúðgelmir | Runes - ᚦᚱᚢᚦᚴᛁᛚᛘᛁᛦ

In Norse mythology, Þrúðgelmir is a jǫtunn mentioned in the Prose Edda's Gylfaginning as the father of Bergelmir, the only jötunn to survive the deluge of Ymir's blood after the slaying of Ymir by Odin, Vili, and Vé. Þrúðgelmir's name means "Power Yeller" or "Mighty Yeller," indicating
his strength.

His role in the mythology is primarily associated with the lineage of jötnar and the aftermath of Ymir's death. He is also listed as the son of Aurgelmir, who is none other than the original giant - Ymir.

Thyrm | Old Norse Þrymr | runes - ᚦᚱᚢᛘᛦ

In Norse mythology, Þrymr is a jǫtunn and a central figure in the myth of the theft of Thor's hammer, Mjǫllnir. He is known for his audacious act of stealing the hammer and demanding the goddess Freyja as his bride in exchange for its return.

This myth is recounted in the poetic and prose Eddas, and Þrymr's actions ultimately lead to a humorous and daring rescue mission by Thor, Loki, and other gods to retrieve Mjǫllnir. Like many of the jǫtnar, Þrymr is slain by Thor in a brutal fashion.

Utgard-Loki | Old Norse Útgarða-Loki | Runes - ᚢᛏᚴᛅᚱᚦᛅ ᛚᚢᚴᛁ

Útgarða-Loki is a powerful jǫtunn and a central figure in the tales of Thor's adventures as recounted in the Prose Edda's Gylfaginning. He rules over the castle of Útgarðr, a place of challenges and illusions.

Útgarða-Loki's cunning and magical feats test Thor's strength and abilities, alongside Loki’s, showcasing his trickster nature and providing insight into the complex interactions between gods and giants in Norse mythology.

Vafthrudnir | Old Norse Vafþrúðnir | Runes - ᚢᛅᚠᚦᚱᚢᚦᚾᛁᛦ

Vafþrúðnir is a wise jǫtunn known for his immense knowledge in Norse mythology. He engages in a wisdom contest with Odin, where they trade questions and answers about the cosmos.

Their battle of wits concludes with Odin asking him a question which only he knows the answer to, promoting Vafþrúðnir to claim that Odin is the wisest in the cosmos.

Vafþrúðnir's insights reveal his understanding of the universe's mysteries, highlighting his significant role in the mythology's exploration of wisdom and fate.

Vidblindi | Old Norse Víðblindi | Runes - ᚢᛁᚦᛒᛚᛁᚾᛏᛁ

Víðblindi, a jötunn in Norse mythology, is linked with the kenning "Viðblindi's boar," referencing whales. This jǫtunn, associated with drawing whales from the sea like fish, is listed among the jötnar in the þulur and is reflected in poetic symbolism.

Another similar kenning, "Víðblindi's pig," for whales is also found in an anonymous stanza from the 13th century preserved in Laufás-Edda. Scholar Rudolf Simek notes that the only jǫtunn known for fishing whales is Hymir, but he is never called by another name, adding to the mystery of Víðblindi’s presence in the Mythology and posing the question: are they one and the same?

Ymir | Old Norse Ymir | Runes - ᚢᛘᛁᛦ

Ymir, the primordial giant of Norse mythology, emerged from the icy void and his body became the foundation of the world. From his flesh came the earth, his blood formed the seas, and his bones turned into mountains.

As the ancestor of all giants, Ymir's creation and eventual demise played a pivotal role in shaping the cosmos and setting the stage for the birth of gods and humans.