The Portrayal of Trolls in Norse Mythology: Good or Evil?

When discussing Norse mythology, the term 'troll' has a distinct meaning that extends beyond its modern connotations. In ancient Norse lore, trolls are synonymous with the Jotunn, a term that is akin to a derogatory term, much like calling a Swede a 'squarehead'. These Jotunn hold a prominent and complex place in Norse mythology, often depicted as both formidable beings and antagonists.

The creation myths of Norse mythology tell us that the world, divided into nine realms, was birthed from the body of the Jotunn Ymir. Similarly, the Jotunn Surtur is predicted to be the one to bring about the end of the world, Ragnarok. This positioning makes the Jotunn older than the Aesir, Vanir, Elves, and Dwarves. While some Jotunn are known for their wisdom, they are generally antagonistic towards the Aesir, leading to an overall perception of evil among mortals who rely on the gods' protection.

Folklore has also played a significant role in shaping the portrayal of trolls. They are often depicted as less awe-inspiring and more evil, portrayed as degenerate brutes with multiple heads and a taste for human flesh. Despite their vast size, a notable characteristic of the Jotunn in myth is their lack of armored weaponry. They do not possess weapons like Mjolnir, Gungnir, or Freyr's sword, leaving them vulnerable to the tools of the Aesir.

Many Jotunn figures are also recognized as gods. For instance, Odin, the all-father, is the son of two Jotunn, and technically, so is his son Thor. Odin's foster brother Loki also belongs to this category. Among the Jotunn, there are deities such as Ran, Gir, and Skadi, who were once worshipped in pagan Scandinavia. However, none of these were integrated into the main groups of gods, the Aesir or the Vanir.

Compared to their mythological counterparts, trolls in folklore possess more pronounced weaknesses. These include their unremitting stupidity, vulnerability to sunlight, and aversion to church bells. Interestingly, in Slavic folklore, trolls (known as nosferatus) share a similar fear of symbols of Christianity, although no direct story exists in Norse folklore where a troll is turned to stone by a church bell or the rays of the sun.

Understanding the portrayal of trolls in Norse mythology is crucial for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of this ancient belief system. From their creation to their eventual demise, trolls are a fascinating part of the Jotunn's legacy, filled with both mythological and folkloric significance.