Norse Mythology: Loki And His Children

Norse Mythology

Mythology is a staple in many different cultures, and holds different meanings for different people. In Northern Europe, many worshipped the gods found in Norse mythology, especially the Viking people. In this mythology these gods created the world and humankind, living in the world tree Yggdrasil. Many important characters play vital roles in these mythologies, but one name appears more often than others, Loki. Loki and his children play many roles in Norse Mythology, such as his daughter serving the dead in Hel. Not falling in battle and going to Hel is a fate many warriors did not wish; yet one which befell one of their most beloved gods. Loki and his children are also destined to bring about the end of all things, called

The exception to this is Loki. Loki is often referred to as the trickster, and is interwoven very finely into Norse Mythology. While Loki is not technically a god, as he was descended from the giants, Loki is the blood brother of Odin. His relation with the other gods varies on situations, as he creates trouble, but in the end also fixes the damage. Loki is also well practiced in Seiðr, which comes into play in many stories. Loki’s children are also famous in many tales. He is the mother of Sleipnir, an eight legged horse, as told in the story The Fortification of Asgard. Loki has another two sons with his wife Sigyn named Vali and Narfi. He also has three children with the giantess Angrboða. His son Fenrir, a giant wolf, was chained by the gods on an island when he grew too fast. His other son Jormangand, a giant serpent, was cast into the sea by Odin. Thor fishes for the world serpent in another popular tale. Then Loki has a daughter named Hel, who is a half corpse half living girl. She was banished by Odin to Niflheim where she serves the dead in

They then brought his two sons Vali and Narfi to the cave. The gods turned Vali into a wolf, which tore apart his brother Narfi. They then used his intestines to bind Loki to the stones of the cave. Next the gods placed a poisonous serpent over his head to drip venom onto his face while he stands. Loki’s loyal wife Sigyn stands by to catch the venom in a bowl, but when she empties the bowl he must endure the agony. Loki’s fate is to suffer in the cave until he can break free during Ragnarök, which is the destruction of the