09/28/2022
Who Is Thor?
Today we were lucky enough to take a closer look at the mythology of Scandinavia and dwell on one of the most important Viking god Thor. Well, let’s start with the first question that is most always ask what kind of god is Thor?
Thor god of thunder – occupies an honorable second place in the Scandinavian divine pantheon. Thor is the son of Odin and the earth goddess Erd, he represents strength (either brute physical strength or subtle strength, say, willpower) because strength was the main virtue of the Vikings.
Thor the Thunderer is a strongman with a huge hammer “Melnir”, with its help he can send thunder and lightning, with this weapon in his hands Thor constantly fights with numerous giants, who now and then want to capture the abode of the gods Asgard. The cult of Thor was very popular in Scandinavia, and its symbols – Thor’s hammers are often found in Scandinavian countries during archaeological excavations.
Thor travels in a chariot pulled by goats with his servant and messenger Tjelvar. Edda notes that the scorched earth was left behind the chariot, and the mountains crumbled and cracked behind it. When Thor was hungry, he roasted goats and ate them. To continue his journey, all he had to do was touch the remains of the goats, and they were instantly fully restored, ready to drive the chariot onward.
Thor wields the battle hammer Mjolnir, which, when thrown at its target, magically returns to its owner. To use such a powerful weapon, even a god-like Thor requires special iron gauntlets and a belt, doubling the wielder’s strength.
The blow of the hammer causes thunder; with it, Thor enjoyed the joys of his favorite hobby: killing giants.
It is also very often asked about the god of war Thor. But this question does not have a clear answer, because he either fought because he hated giants, but also was very good.