Why Loki is the Trickiest God in Norse Mythology

by John Agbo, age 13

In Norse mythology, the god Loki is perceived as a trickster. Loki went by the name “Father-of-lies.” His name can be traced back to the Germanic root Luk, meaning loops and knots.

The giant Farbauti is Loki's father, and Laufey, whose origin is unknown, is Loki’s mother. Loki is the brother of Byleistr, and Helblindi, and is a sworn brother of Odin. Loki was the husband of Sigyn with whom he fathered two children, Narfi and Vali. Wanting more children, he had an affair with the giantess Angrbodha and fathered three more children. The first child was Fenrir, the wolf, and the most notorious child of Loki. Fenrir is said to have killed Odin at Ragnarok. The second child was Hel, goddess of death, and ruler of Helheim the capital of death. The last child was Jormungandr, the world serpent, who resides under the sea biting his tail, and is fated to kill Thor at Ragnarok (the ‘final destiny of the gods’ or the end of the world).

Loki was also credited with killing the beloved god Baldr out of hatred for his popularity. The death of Baldr was a catalyst for the events that would lead to Ragnarok. After Baldr's death, the gods punished Loki in the most painful way possible: they turned his son, Vali, into a wolf and watched him kill his brother Narfi. The gods proceeded to kill the wolf and used both of their organs as chains to bind Loki. They also put an acid-dripping snake above his head.

Loki’s influence is seen in many forms of popular media such as books and shows. This is surprising because, in Norse mythology, he had no cult attached to him. Loki’s overall mischievous ways caused a chain reaction that led to Ragnarok. Known for his mischievous behavior, Loki embodies the complex nature of mythology. His role as both a trickster and a catalyst for change highlights the rich tapestry of Norse legend.

[Sources: World History Encyclopedia; Norse Mythology and Viking History]