þruska

þruska is a term primarily used in Icelandic folklore and mythology. It generally refers to a type of troll or giant, often characterized by their immense size and brutish nature. While the specifics can vary across different tales and regions, þruskar are typically depicted as solitary beings dwelling in remote mountainous areas or desolate landscapes.

These creatures are often described as having immense strength and a crude intellect. Their appearance is typically fearsome, with rough, stony skin, long beards, and formidable physical features. Stories involving þruskar frequently involve their interactions with humans, which are usually hostile. They might kidnap people, demand tribute, or simply pose a threat to travelers and settlements.

Despite their often negative portrayal, some narratives might depict þruskar as possessing a degree of cunning or even a grudging respect for certain individuals. Their role in folklore often serves to explain natural phenomena, justify caution in wild areas, or as a cautionary tale about respecting the unknown and powerful forces of nature. The concept of the þruska is deeply ingrained in the Icelandic cultural landscape and contributes to the rich tapestry of its mythological traditions.