Surt

Surtr, often anglicized as Surt, is a figure in Norse mythology described as a fire giant (jötnar) from Muspelheim, the realm of fire. The name is Old Norse, and Surtr is typically portrayed as a being of immense fiery power who plays a central role in the myths surrounding Ragnarök, the end of the world in Norse eschatology.

In the mythic narratives, Surtr is associated with fire and destruction. He is depicted as leading the fire giants of Muspelheim in the cataclysmic events of Ragnarök, where he wields a flaming sword and is said to set the worlds ablaze. The Ragnarök cycle culminates in widespread devastation and the destruction of many gods, followed by a rebirth and renewal of the world. Surtr’s fiery judgment is thus tied to themes of apocalypse and renewal in the myth.

Primary sources for Surtr include the Prose Edda (Gylfaginning) by Snorri Sturluson and, with variations, the Poetic Edda. These texts place him as a primordial force from the fiery realm of Muspelheim, foretelling the world’s destruction during Ragnarök.

In modern culture, Surtr has been adapted beyond scholarly discussion. In popular media, he appears as a fire-demon-like figure in Marvel Comics and the film Thor: Ragnarok, where he is portrayed as a colossal embodiment of fire. The name and concept continue to symbolize apocalyptic fire and renewal in contemporary reinterpretations.