Thor in Norse Mythology: The Protector of Asgard and Midgard

Thor, the god of thunder in Norse mythology, is known for his strength, protection, and sense of justice. He is famous for his mighty hammer, Mjölnir, and his stories often revolve around his battles against chaos. As a result, he is a central figure among the gods and highly respected by his worshippers.

Who is Thor

Thor is an important figure in Norse mythology. He is known for protecting Asgard and Midgard and is often depicted battling giants to maintain balance in the cosmos.

Importance of Thor Among the Gods and to the People Who Worshipped Him

Thor was more than just a god of thunder; he was also a symbol of the values of courage, power, and safety in Norse mythology. The Vikings revered him, emphasizing his importance to their culture through the many offerings and protective talismans they made in his honor.

Origins of Thor

Etymology of Thor’s Name and Its Meaning

Thor comes from the Old Norse word Þórr, meaning “thunder,” reflecting his rule over storms and lightning.

Thor’s Lineage: Son of Odin and the Earth Goddess Jord

Thor’s parentage, with Odin as his father and Jord, the personification of the earth, as his mother, positions him as a god of both the heavens and the earth. Thor’s ancestry designates him as a connection between the supernatural and the natural world, personifying the forces of creation and destruction.

Thor’s Iconic Attributes

Mjölnir: The Hammer of Thor

Description and Powers of Mjölnir

Thor’s hammer, Mjölnir, is a potent symbol of his role as the protector. Not only is it a weapon of unparalleled destruction against his enemies, but it is also a tool of blessing and consecration. Mjölnir is used to hallow marriages, births, and funerals, signifying Thor’s role in all aspects of life and death, order and chaos. The hammer embodies the idea that destruction is a necessary precursor to creation. This cycle is central to Norse mythology. Mjölnir is also renowned for its ability to level mountains, symbolizing the god’s power over the natural elements. It was said to return to Thor’s hand after being thrown, a feature that made it unique among mythical weapons.

Symbolism of the Hammer in Norse Culture

Mjölnir represented protection and consecration, and it was used in various ceremonies to bless marriages, births, and funerals, highlighting its deep cultural significance.

Thor’s Belt and Iron Gloves

Thor’s belt, Megingjörð, and his iron gloves, Járngreipr, are among the most fascinating artifacts of Norse mythology. They are crucial enhancements to Thor’s already formidable strength and his ability to wield Mjölnir, his enchanted hammer. These items are not merely accessories but are imbued with significant power and symbolism, reflecting Thor’s status as the god of thunder and strength.

Megingjörð: The Belt of Strength

Megingjörð, Thor’s belt of strength, is a powerful magical item that doubles his godly strength when fastened around Thor’s waist. The name Megingjörð itself can be translated from Old Norse as “Power Belt” or “Belt of Might.” This belt is a testament to Thor’s physical prowess and role as Asgard and Midgard’s protector. In the sagas and myths, the moments when Thor girds himself with Megingjörð are often preludes to battles of great significance, underscoring the belt’s role in amplifying Thor’s power to face formidable foes, particularly the giants.

Járngreipr: The Iron Gloves

Járngreipr, the iron gloves worn by Thor, are equally essential to his arsenal. These gloves are necessary for Thor to grip Mjölnir’s handle properly, allowing him to wield the hammer with unmatched skill and power. The gloves symbolize the connection between Thor and his weapon, signifying the control and mastery over the forces of thunder and lightning that Mjölnir represents. Without Járngreipr, Thor’s ability to harness the full potential of Mjölnir would be compromised, highlighting the gloves’ importance in Thor’s mythological narrative.

Thor’s Chariot and Goats

Thor’s chariot, drawn by the magical goats Tanngrisnir (Teeth-Barer) and Tanngnjóstr (Teeth-Grinder), is a vivid symbol of his might and mobility, embodying his role as the protector of the cosmos. This unique mode of transportation highlights Thor’s connection to the natural world and his duty to swiftly defend the realms of gods and humans alike from threats.

The Chariot

The chariot, capable of traversing the skies, reflects Thor’s dominion over the elements, particularly storms and thunder. As he rides, the rumble of his chariot is said to mimic the sound of thunder, announcing his presence and reinforcing his identity as the god of thunder. This celestial vehicle is a tangible manifestation of Thor’s power to move between the worlds, emphasizing his role as a guardian against chaos and destruction.

Tanngrisnir and Tanngnjóstr

The goats that pull Thor’s chariot are no ordinary animals; they possess magical qualities that allow them to be slain and eaten but resurrected the next day, provided their bones are kept intact. This remarkable ability symbolizes regeneration and resilience, echoing the cycles of nature and the enduring strength of Thor’s protection. The goats’ names, Tanngrisnir and Tanngnjóstr, further enhance Thor’s fearsome and formidable image, with their associations with bearing teeth and grinding in aggression or determination.

Thor’s Role in Norse Mythology

Protector of Asgard and Midgard

Thor’s role as the protector of Asgard and Midgard is a cornerstone of Norse mythology, symbolizing the eternal battle between the forces of order and chaos. As the son of Odin, the Allfather, and Jord, the earth goddess, Thor was endowed with immense strength and a connection to the divine and the earthly realms. This unique lineage positioned him as a key defender against the threats that sought to undermine the cosmic balance.

Thor’s Battles Against the Giants

Thor’s confrontations with the giants are legendary and numerous, each tale underscoring his might and dedication to safeguarding the cosmos. One of the most famous stories involves the giant Hrungnir, whom Thor defeats in a duel, showcasing his physical strength and the divine power that governs the cosmos. These battles symbolize the struggle between order and chaos, civilization and wilderness, growth and destruction.

Relationship with Other Gods and Creatures

Allies and Enemies

Thor, the Norse god of thunder, occupies a central role in the pantheon of Norse mythology, characterized by his relentless battles against the forces of chaos and destruction, primarily the giants (Jötnar). His relationships within this mythological framework are defined by clear lines of alliance and enmity, reflecting the broader themes of order versus chaos that permeate Norse tales.

Allies of Thor

Thor’s allies are primarily found among the Æsir, the principal pantheon of Norse gods, which includes gods such as Odin, his father, and Freyr, a god associated with kingship, prosperity, and fair weather. These alliances are rooted in their shared interest in preserving the cosmic order and protecting Asgard, the realm of the gods, and Midgard, the world of humans, from the forces of chaos.

• Odin: As the Allfather and chief of the Æsir, Odin’s relationship with Thor is multifaceted, embodying paternal guidance and a shared duty to uphold the cosmic order. Odin’s wisdom complements Thor’s strength, making them a formidable pair against their enemies.
• Freyr: Another vital ally of Thor, Freyr is a god of fertility, weather, and prosperity. While Thor and Freyr come from different branches of the Norse gods (Thor from the Æsir and Freyr from the Vanir), their alliance is a testament to the unity of the gods in their struggle against the giants.

Enemies of Thor

The giants, or Jötnar, represent Thor’s primary adversaries. Inhabiting Jotunheim, one of the nine worlds in Norse cosmology, the giants are often depicted as embodying natural disasters, the untamed wilderness, and the forces of destruction threatening the cosmic order maintained by the Æsir.

• Jörmungandr: The World Serpent, Jörmungandr, is one of Thor’s most formidable foes. This giant serpent encircles Midgard, the human world, in the ocean’s depths. Thor’s encounters with Jörmungandr, including their final battle during Ragnarök, are central to his mythology, symbolizing the ongoing struggle between order and chaos.
• Giants of Jotunheim: Thor’s battles against the giants are numerous and varied, reflecting his role as the protector of Asgard and Midgard. These giants often seek to invade or destroy the realms of the gods and humans or engage in challenges and contests of strength and wit against Thor and other gods.

The Dynamic of Allies and Enemies

The dynamic between Thor’s allies and enemies is not merely a backdrop for his adventures but a fundamental aspect of Norse mythology that illustrates the themes of balance, conflict, and renewal. Thor’s relentless defense of the cosmic order against the forces of chaos, represented by the giants, underscores his role as a protector and warrior. His alliances with other gods, such as Odin and Freyr, reinforce the unity and cooperation among the Æsir and Vanir in their shared purpose.

Interactions with Loki

Thor’s relationship with Loki in Norse mythology is complex and multifaceted, characterized by camaraderie, rivalry, and, at times, outright antagonism. Loki, the trickster god known for his cunning and shape-shifting abilities, occupies a unique place in the Norse pantheon. His actions often cause trouble for the gods, including Thor. Yet, his cleverness and resourcefulness make him an indispensable ally in certain situations.

Camaraderie and Mischief

Thor and Loki share numerous adventures that highlight their uneasy friendship. One of the most notable examples is their journey to the hall of the giant Útgarða-Loki, where they encounter a series of challenges designed to humiliate them. Despite Loki’s role in leading Thor into these challenges, Thor’s strength and Loki’s cunning are both put to the test, showcasing their abilities in the face of deception and adversity.

Another instance of their camaraderie is evident in the tale of Thor’s fishing expedition to catch the World Serpent, Jörmungandr. Loki accompanies Thor on this dangerous venture, demonstrating their ability to work together despite Loki’s usual inclination towards causing mischief.

Conflict and Deception

Despite moments of cooperation, Loki’s actions often bring him into direct conflict with Thor. One of the most significant betrayals occurs when Loki cuts off the hair of Thor’s wife, Sif, as a prank. Thor’s fury at this act forces Loki to make amends by commissioning the dwarves to create new golden hair for Sif and several magical items for the gods, including Thor’s hammer, Mjölnir.

Loki’s role in the death of Thor’s brother, Baldr, further strains their relationship. Although Thor does not directly punish Loki for this act, it contributes to the gods’ decision to bind Loki as punishment for his betrayal, leading to events that culminate in Ragnarök.

The Complexity of Their Relationship

The relationship between Thor and Loki symbolizes the complex interplay between order and chaos in Norse mythology. Thor, as a god of strength and protection, often starkly contrasts Loki, the embodiment of change and unpredictability. Yet, their interactions suggest a deeper connection that acknowledges the necessity of balancing these opposing forces.

Thor’s straightforwardness and physical prowess often counterbalance Loki’s guile and strategic thinking, making them an effective, if unpredictable, pair. Their relationship, with its ups and downs, reflects the broader themes of Norse mythology, where gods and other beings navigate a world defined by shifting alliances, hostility, and the overarching fate that binds them all.

Major Myths Involving Thor

The Creation of Mjölnir by the Dwarves

The story begins with Loki, the trickster god, who had cut off the hair of Sif, Thor’s wife, in a mischievous act. To appease Thor’s wrath, Loki promised to procure hair gold from the dwarves that would grow like natural hair. Loki then went to the dwarves, known for their unmatched skill in craftsmanship, to fulfill his promise and more.

Loki approached the dwarven brothers Sindri (also known as Eitri) and Brokkr, challenging them to create items more magnificent than those made by the sons of Ivaldi, another group of skilled dwarves. Accepting the challenge, Sindri and Brokkr set to work, with Brokkr working the bellows and Sindri shaping the creations.

As they worked, Loki, in the form of a fly, attempted to sabotage their efforts. Despite Loki’s interference, the brothers succeeded in creating three masterpieces: Gullinbursti, a boar with bristles of gold that could illuminate the darkest night and run faster than any horse; Draupnir, a golden ring that would produce eight new rings of equal weight every ninth night; and finally, Mjölnir, the hammer that would become Thor’s most formidable weapon.

The Theft of Mjölnir

The story starts when Thor awakens to find his precious hammer, Mjölnir, missing. Distraught, he enlists Loki’s help to find it. Using Freya’s feathered cloak to transform into a bird, Loki flies to Jotunheim, the land of the giants, where Thor discovers that the giant Thyrm has stolen Mjölnir and hidden it deep within the earth. Thyrm declares he will only return the hammer if Freya is given to him as his bride.

Knowing Freya’s importance and unwillingness to hand her over, the gods convene and devise a plan to retrieve Mjölnir. They decide to dress Thor as Freya and send him to Jotunheim disguised as the goddess, with Loki accompanying him as his bridesmaid. Despite Thor’s initial resistance to the plan, he eventually agrees, understanding the necessity of recovering his hammer to maintain the gods’ protection over Asgard and Midgard.

Upon their arrival in Jotunheim, Thyrm is deceived by the disguise, despite several close calls during the wedding feast, where Thor’s behavior is far from ladylike. 

Only when Mjölnir is brought forth as part of the wedding ceremony to bless the bride (Thor in disguise) does Thor seize his hammer. With Mjölnir back in his possession, Thor sheds his disguise. He unleashes his fury upon Þrymr and the gathered giants, securing the safety of the gods and humanity once more.

Quotes from ancient texts

From the Þrymskviða, the following passages highlight critical moments in the tale:

• Loki’s Discovery: “Then Loki flew, and the feather-dress whirred Until he came out of Asgard and into Jotunheim.”
• Þrymr’s Demand: “The giants’ leader sat on a grave-mound: ‘Guard well, Jotuns, the hammer until Freyja comes; She must be brought here as my bride.'”
• Thor’s Disguise: “Then Thor was dressed as a bride, with the bridal linen of the noble women, and the keys jingling, but beneath his dress he wore his hammer Mjölnir.”
• The Wedding Feast: “Alone ate Thor an ox, and eight salmon, all the dainties that were for the women; and drank three measures of mead.”
• The Retrieval of Mjölnir: “Laughed Thor’s heart in his breast, when the hard-hearted one his hammer recognized; He first slew Thrym, the giants’ leader, then he crushed all the giant’s kin.”

These quotes, translated from the Old Norse, capture the essence of the story, from Loki’s discovery of Mjölnir’s location to Thor’s triumphant retrieval of his hammer. The tale not only underscores the importance of Mjölnir to Thor and the gods but also showcases Thor’s willingness to overcome his pride and use cunning to achieve his goals, a departure from his usual reliance on brute strength.

Thor’s Fishing Expedition

The tale of Thor’s fishing expedition to catch the World Serpent, Jörmungandr, is a testament to the cosmic scale of Norse mythology’s narratives, showcasing Thor’s immense power and daring. This story is primarily recounted in the Hymiskviða, a poem from the Poetic Edda.

The Tale Explained

Thor’s journey to catch Jörmungandr begins when he travels to the hall of the giant Hymir, seeking a large cauldron to brew ale for all the gods. After proving his incredible strength in various ways, Thor convinces Hymir to go on a fishing expedition. Thor’s true motive, however, is to confront Jörmungandr, the World Serpent, which encircles Midgard (the world of humans) and is a sworn enemy of the gods, especially Thor.

Hymir insists on providing bait, but Thor, determined to face the serpent, cuts off the head of Hymir’s largest ox to use as bait. They row out into the ocean, where Thor, with his divine strength, casts his line deep into the waters where Jörmungandr resides.

When Jörmungandr bites, the struggle that ensues is monumental. Thor braces himself against the sea by pushing his feet through the bottom of the boat, finding footing on the ocean floor. The serpent surfaces, and the two adversaries lock eyes in a moment of cosmic tension. Hymir, terrified at the sight of the serpent and fearing the destruction their battle might cause, cuts Thor’s fishing line, allowing Jörmungandr to escape into the depths.

Quotes from ancient texts

From the Hymiskviða, the following passages vividly capture moments from this epic tale:

• Thor’s Determination for Bait: “But the son of Odin [Thor] cut the head from Hymir’s ox, and said he would row far out to sea.”
• The Encounter with Jörmungandr: “There gaped at the bait the guardian of the flood [Jörmungandr]; The serpent’s jaws gaped wide, the ring-warder [Thor] struck.”
• The Struggle: “Firm in his hand the hammer’s haft he grasped, Would strike the first blow if he could, The sea-wolf’s skull shatter and send him to the shades.”
• Hymir’s Fear and the Escape: “But the frightened Hymir grew pale, Became yellow when he saw the serpent, At the same time saw how the sea water Rushed in through the boat.”

These quotes encapsulate the dramatic confrontation between Thor and Jörmungandr, highlighting the themes of bravery, strength, and the ongoing enmity between the gods and the forces of chaos. Thor’s attempt to catch the World Serpent with an ox’s head for bait and the subsequent struggle illustrates the grandeur and the dangerous nature of the gods’ endeavors in Norse mythology.

The tale of Thor’s fishing expedition is not just an adventure story; it foreshadows the cataclysmic battle at Ragnarök, where Thor and Jörmungandr are destined to face each other once more, leading to mutual destruction. This story, therefore, serves as a crucial piece of the larger narrative puzzle of Norse mythology, emphasizing the intertwined fates of its most formidable adversaries.

Ragnarök, often translated as “The Twilight of the Gods,” represents the end of the cosmos in Norse mythology, a series of events including a great battle that leads to the death of many gods, including Thor and Odin, as well as the destruction and subsequent renewal of the world. Central to this cataclysm is the final battle between Thor and Jörmungandr, the World Serpent, which epitomizes the cyclical nature of Norse cosmology—destruction followed by rebirth.

The Tale of Ragnarök

As Ragnarök begins, chaos envelops the cosmos. The world tree Yggdrasil shakes, and the bonds of the wolf Fenrir break, freeing him. Jörmungandr emerges from the sea, flooding the land. The gods, already aware of their fates due to the prophecies, gather their forces and meet their enemies on the battlefield of Vigrid.

Thor and Jörmungandr find each other on this battlefield, and their final confrontation commences. They are ancient enemies, having encountered each other before, most notably during Thor’s fishing expedition. This time, however, their battle is to the death. 

Thor succeeds in killing Jörmungandr with his hammer, Mjölnir. Still, he only walks nine steps afterward before succumbing to the serpent’s venom, which it had spewed over him during their fight.

Quotes from ancient texts

The Poetic Edda, particularly the Völuspá (The Prophecy of the Seeress) and the Snorra Edda, provide vivid descriptions of Ragnarök, including the fate of Thor and Jörmungandr. Here are some passages that highlight their final battle:

• From the Völuspá: “Mighty Thor, the son of Odin, fights the serpent with fury. He slays the guardian of Midgard, and then staggers back nine steps, felled by the venomous beast.”

This quote encapsulates the essence of their final encounter. However, it’s a synthesis rather than a direct quotation from the original Old Norse texts, which are more descriptive and less direct. The original texts use more poetic and circumlocutory language to describe the events of Ragnarök and the fates of the gods.

• Describing the Aftermath: “Then comes the mighty son of Hlodyn: (Odin’s son goes with the monster to fight) Midgard’s Veor in his rage will slay the worm. Nine feet will go Fiorgyn’s son, bowed by the serpent, who feared no foe. All men will leave their homesteads.” (Völuspá, translated loosely)

These passages highlight the dramatic and tragic nature of Ragnarök, where even in victory, there is defeat. Immediately following his triumph over Jörmungandr, Thor’s death serves as a poignant reminder of the inevitability of fate and the cyclical process of destruction and renewal that characterizes Norse mythology. The world is reborn, fresh and renewed, for the surviving gods and the few humans who repopulate the earth, beginning the cycle anew.

Worship of Thor

Thor’s Popularity Among the Vikings

The worship of Thor in the Viking Age and earlier periods is well-documented through various archaeological finds, literary sources, and historical records. These pieces of evidence highlight Thor’s prominence in the Norse pantheon and his importance to the daily lives and spiritual practices of the Norse people. Here are some key examples of evidence for Thor’s worship:

Runestones and Inscriptions

• Runestones: Several runestones across Scandinavia feature inscriptions invoking Thor or dedicated to him. For instance, the Sö 86 runestone in Sweden bears an inscription that invokes Thor to sanctify the stone.
• Hammer Amulets: Numerous amulets in the shape of Thor’s hammer, Mjölnir, have been found across Scandinavia and in other regions inhabited by the Norse. These amulets were protective symbols and religious tokens, indicating the wearer’s devotion to Thor. Their widespread use underscores Thor’s role as a protector deity, invoked for strength and protection.

Place Names

• Thor’s Name in Topography: Thor’s name is embedded in the landscape of Scandinavia through numerous place names. This includes towns, villages, and natural landmarks, suggesting areas where Thor was particularly revered. For example, Thorsberg in Denmark and Thorslunda in Sweden bear his name, indicating places of worship or significant religious activity dedicated to Thor.

Literary Sources

• Icelandic Sagas and Eddas: The Prose Edda and Poetic Edda, compilations of Norse myths and heroic legends, along with sagas, contain references to rituals, prayers, and practices associated with Thor. While written down in the 13th century, these texts preserve older traditions and beliefs, offering insights into how Thor was worshipped and invoked in rituals.

Archaeological Finds

• Temple Remains: Excavations of what are believed to be Norse temples have uncovered artifacts and structural features that suggest places of worship dedicated to Thor and other gods. For example, locations like Uppsala in Sweden have been identified as significant religious centers where Thor may have been worshipped alongside other deities.
• Offerings and Sacrifices: Archaeological sites have yielded evidence of offerings and sacrifices likely made to Thor and other Norse gods. These include weapons, animal bones, and other items deposited in sacred lakes, bogs, and shrine sites, indicating practices of propitiation and devotion.

Thor’s Hammer as a Christian Counter-Symbol

• Mjölnir vs. the Cross: In regions and periods where Norse paganism and Christianity overlapped, Thor’s hammer amulets were sometimes used as a counter-symbol to the Christian cross, reflecting resistance to Christian conversion and the enduring allegiance to the old gods, notably Thor.

These pieces of evidence collectively paint a picture of Thor as a central figure in Norse religion, revered across various strata of society. His worship, characterized by the use of symbols, dedications, and rituals, underscores his importance not just as a mythological figure but as a deity intimately connected to the lives, hopes, and fears of the Norse people.

The Day of the Week Named After Thor (Thursday)

Thursday, or Thor’s Day (Þórsdagr in Old Norse), is a weekly testament to Thor’s enduring legacy and significance in the ancient world and modern culture. This naming convention is a direct reflection of Thor’s importance among the Norse gods, as he was revered as a protector of both gods and humans, wielding his mighty hammer, Mjölnir, to control the thunder and lightning, symbolizing his power and authority over the natural world.

Historical Origins

The name “Thursday” originates from Norse mythology, where days of the week were often named after gods and celestial bodies. The English name “Thursday” derives from “Thor’s day,” which is a translation of the Latin “dies Iovis,” attributed to Jupiter (the Roman equivalent of Thor, in terms of his association with thunder). This naming convention was preserved in the Germanic languages following the Roman era, reflecting the syncretism between Roman culture and the Germanic tribes’ beliefs and practices.

Thor’s Influence on Culture

Thor’s association with Thursday underscores his role as one of the most influential and famous gods in Norse mythology. As the son of Odin, the chief of the gods, Thor was primarily known as the god of thunder. Still, his domain also encompassed the protection of mankind, fertility, and the hallowing of sacred spaces. The day named in his honor reflects his central role in the Norse pantheon and the everyday lives of the Norse people, who looked to him for protection and strength.

Thor’s Legacy

Depictions of Thor in Modern Media

Thor’s depiction in modern media spans various genres and formats, from comic books and novels to films and video games. While these portrayals vary significantly, they consistently emphasize his heroism, strength, and the iconic elements of his Norse mythology background. Here are some notable examples:

Comic Books

• Marvel Comics: Thor was introduced to the Marvel Universe in 1962 by writer Stan Lee, artist Jack Kirby, and scripter Larry Lieber in “Journey into Mystery” #83. Marvel’s Thor is portrayed as the god of thunder from Asgard, exiled to Earth by his father, Odin. He takes on the mortal identity of Dr. Donald Blake, a physician with a lame leg, who transforms into Thor when he wields his enchanted hammer, Mjölnir. This version of Thor blends Norse mythology with superhero tropes, emphasizing themes of honor, duty, and the struggle between his godly responsibilities and his love for Earth.

Movies

• Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU): Portrayed by Chris Hemsworth, Thor has been a central character in the MCU since his first appearance in “Thor” (2011). The films explore his journey from a bold, arrogant prince to a hero worthy of kingship, focusing on his relationships with his family, especially his brother Loki, and his role in the Avengers. The MCU’s depiction of Thor has introduced the character to a global audience, blending action, humor, and emotional depth.

Literature

• “American Gods” by Neil Gaiman: In this novel, Gaiman explores the concept of gods and mythological beings living in modern America, drawing power from belief. While Thor himself is not a central character, his presence and impact are felt throughout the story, reflecting the themes of myth and memory.

Video Games

• “God of War” (2018): The latest installment in the “God of War” series, set in a world inspired by Norse mythology, introduces Thor as a looming presence, with his sons Magni and Modi serving as antagonists to the protagonist, Kratos, and his son, Atreus. Thor is depicted as a powerful and feared god, setting the stage for his direct confrontation with Kratos in the sequel.

Television

• “Vikings”: While primarily focused on the historical and legendary sagas of Viking heroes, “Vikings” incorporates Norse mythology into its narrative, including references to Thor. The show explores how the Vikings revered the gods, including Thor, in their daily lives and raids, highlighting Thor’s cultural and religious significance in the Viking Age.

Conclusion

Thor’s significance in Norse mythology cannot be overstated. Thor embodies strength, protection, and perseverance from his origins to his legacy. His myths, worship, and enduring appeal reflect the profound impact of Norse mythology on modern society and culture, offering insights into the ancient world’s understanding of the divine and the natural.