Jotunn

A jotunn (plural jotnar) is a type of being in Norse mythology typically described as a giant or monstrous creature that inhabits the world of Jotunheim. In the Prose Edda and Poetic Edda, jotnar are depicted as the primary adversaries of the Aesir and Vanir gods, often engaging in battles that shape the cosmos. Their society is portrayed as chaotic and warlike, with a strong emphasis on physical strength and endurance. While they are frequently cast as enemies, many myths present them in a more complex light, with some jotnar acting as helper figures or patrons, such as the giant Suttungr who hides the mead of poetry.

The earliest sources describe jotnar as beings created by the primordial giants Ymir, a being whose corpse formed the earth. In the sagas, they occupy the margins of the human and divine realms, inhabiting the northern wilderness and the depths of the earth. Some stories attribute to them profound knowledge of runes and magical arts. Their oaths are bound by a magic covenant known as the Huldra Covenant. The dual nature of jotnar—both dangerous adversaries and guardians of ancient wisdom—has made them a persistent motif in Scandinavian folklore and modern fantasy literature. Their depiction also mirrors the complex relationship between humans and nature, underscoring the balance between resilience and vulnerability in mythic narratives.