It all began with a comic book. Thor, the Norse deity of thunder, was introduced in a Marvel comic crafted by the iconic Stan Lee during the Silver Age of comics. Sixty-six years later, Thor has become a household name, much like Spider-Man, while the entire Norse mythological roster has emerged as a continual wellspring of inspiration for films, television series, and literature. Here’s a closer look at how some of these pivotal figures have transitioned through pop culture, alongside their authentic representations in ancient Norse texts.
Odin
In Old Norse mythology: Odin, the father of Thor, is known as the “all-father,” revered as the eldest of the gods and the creator of existence. He traded one of his eyes for the gift of infinite knowledge and presides over Asgard, the land of deities. Accompanied by his two ravens, Huginn and Muninn, who traverse the globe to bring him news, Odin is the patron god of warfare, take pleasure in the honorable deaths of fighters whom he welcomes into Valhalla, the afterlife reserved for the valorous. His nature is fierce and bloodthirsty, but not unjust.
In pop culture: Odin debuted alongside Thor in the same Marvel publication in 1962, and he has remained a significant character ever since. More recently, he was depicted as a member of an ancient Avengers team (mirroring his son’s current association). In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Anthony Hopkins took on the role of Odin, though the character’s more morally ambiguous characteristics were often downplayed. A notably compelling version of Odin is portrayed in Starz’s American Gods, where Ian McShane plays the mysterious Mr. Wednesday, a name linked to Odin.
Thor
In Old Norse mythology: Described as tall, robust, and red-bearded, the thunder god may not be as clever as his father or Loki, yet he possesses a virtuous heart. His powers are enhanced by a belt known as Megingjord, and he wields Mjollnir, the legendary hammer that alters its size and always returns to him after being thrown. Thor is wed to the golden-haired Sif and acts as a guardian for both Asgard and Midgard, the realm of humanity.
In pop culture: Thor made his initial appearance in Marvel in 1962 and became a founding member of the Avengers in 1963. Since then, he has featured in numerous comic series, animated shows, and video games. His popularity surged with Chris Hemsworth’s portrayal of the character in Thor (2011) and Avengers: Infinity War (2018).
Freya/Frigg
In Old Norse mythology: Freya, along with her twin brother Frey, belongs to the Vanir, a faction of nature deities who, after conflict with the Asgardian gods, were integrated into their society as part of a peace agreement. Freya is the goddess of love and renowned as the most beautiful deity. Many sought her hand in marriage or attempted to abduct her. She rode in a chariot pulled by cats and had an inclination for a luxurious lifestyle—Loki once accused her of engaging in romantic escapades with various gods. Freya is often conflated with Frigg, the wife of Odin and queen of the gods.
In pop culture: Frigga made her first Marvel comic appearance as Thor’s mother (and Loki’s adoptive mother) in 1963, while a separate character named Freya was introduced briefly in 1993. Post-2011, these two roles began to merge into one. Actress Rene Russo portrayed Frigga in the first two Thor films.
Loki
In Old Norse mythology: Your interpretation of Loki can differ based on the manuscripts of Norse mythology you consult. There is ambiguity surrounding his connection to Odin (with some sources suggesting they were blood brothers), but he is generally acknowledged to be the offspring of a giant. Though residing in Asgard, he often feels like an outsider and his loyalties remain unpredictable. Known as “The Trickster,” Loki is a clever shape-shifter equipped with winged shoes, who delights in playing pranks on Thor.
In pop culture: Marvel’s incarnation of Loki first emerged in the 1962 issue, depicted as Thor’s step-brother and persistent adversary, achieving a status as one of the most formidable comic book villains. Tom Hiddleston has embodied Loki in the MCU since 2011, delivering a flamboyant and engaging performance. Beyond Marvel, Loki is a recurring figure in CW’s Supernatural, where Richard Speight Jr. portrays a less glamorous, grittier version that still pays homage to the Trickster essence found in Norse lore.
Hel
In Old Norse mythology: Hel, the illegitimate daughter of Loki and a giantess, has contributed to Loki being dubbed the “Father of Monsters.” With her dual nature—half stunning maiden and half decaying corpse—she is appointed by Odin to rule over the underworld realm of the dead (those not welcomed into Valhalla). This domain shares her name, Hel, believed to have influenced the Christian term “hell.”
In pop culture: In Marvel comics, she is presented as Hela and made her debut in 1964 as Loki’s daughter, closely aligning with the original myth. However, in Thor: Ragnarok (2017), Hela, played by Cate Blanchett, is depicted as Odin’s firstborn, challenging Thor for control over Asgard. While pop culture may diverge from traditional narratives, it ensures the myths remain relevant and recognized.
For those interested in delving deeper into the world of the Old Norse gods and their stories, Neil Gaiman’s Norse Mythology serves as an excellent introductory book.
About the author:
Danai is a writer and editor during the day, a tarot card reader at night, and a lifelong cat enthusiast. Originally from Athens, Greece, she served as the Editorial Director of Savoteur in NYC for five years before relocating to Scandinavia to explore foraging berries. When she isn’t covering Norwegian topics for Culture Trip or discussing relationships for Marie Claire, she enjoys watching superhero series, baking for friends and family, and striving to infuse a bit of magic into daily life.
