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Loki
Also known as: Lopt, Trickster, Shape-Shifter
By Elizabeth Stein for Mythos Atlas. About the author. Editorial notes are grounded in the site's cited sources and can be challenged through the contact page.
Interactive 3D representation
About Loki
The Trickster God
Loki is a shape-shifter and the catalyst for most Norse myths. Sometimes a helpful ally, often a malicious nuisance, his actions drive the plot of the gods' lives.
The Architect of Doom
While he helped the gods acquire their greatest treasures (Mjolnir, Gungnir), his jealousy led to the death of Baldur. His punishment—bound beneath a dripping serpent—sets the stage for his revenge at Ragnarok.
Origin Story
Loki is not one of the Aesir by birth but a giant, the son of the giant Farbauti and the giantess Laufey (or Nal). Despite his giant heritage, he was accepted among the Aesir after becoming blood brothers with Odin in ancient times. The details of this pact are lost, but it bound Odin to never drink unless Loki was also offered a cup. Loki married the goddess Sigyn, who bore him sons Narfi and Vali. With the giantess Angrboda, he fathered three monstrous children: Fenrir the wolf, Jormungandr the World Serpent, and Hel, ruler of the dead.
Domains
mischieftrickerychaosfiretransformation
Symbols
flamesserpentsalmonfly
Related Deities
Family Tree
Explore Loki's relationships with other deities