Loki

Loki is a cunning, shape-changing figure in Norse mythology who lives among the gods but often endangers them. His tricks sometimes solve problems he has caused, yet his part in Baldr’s death turns him into their enemy. He shows how cleverness can become destructive.

Key stories of Loki

Sif’s hair and the gods’ treasures

Loki cuts off Sif’s hair and must find a replacement when Thor threatens him. His dealings with dwarfs bring the gods several treasures, including Thor’s hammer.

In The Prose Edda, Loki wagers his head that one group of dwarfs cannot outdo another. When he loses, he escapes death by arguing that the bargain does not include his neck.

In The Prose Edda by Snorri Sturluson

The theft and rescue of Idunn

Under pressure from the giant Thjazi, Loki lures Idunn away from the gods. Without her apples, they begin to grow old, and Loki must bring her back.

In The Prose Edda, Loki borrows Freya’s feather garment, flies to Thjazi’s home, and changes Idunn into a nut so he can carry her away.

In The Prose Edda by Snorri Sturluson

Baldr’s death and Loki’s punishment

In the most common version, Loki arranges for the blind god Hodr to kill Baldr with mistletoe. The gods later bind Loki beneath a snake whose venom causes him terrible pain.

In The Prose Edda, Loki discovers that mistletoe alone has not promised to spare Baldr. He gives it to Hodr and guides his throw during the gods’ game of hurling harmless objects at Baldr.

In The Prose Edda by Snorri Sturluson

How to recognise Loki in stories

Look for a clever outsider who both helps and harms the gods.
Notice changes of shape, deceptive bargains, and narrow escapes.
Watch for mistletoe, binding ropes, or a snake dripping venom.

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Is Loki Thor’s brother?

Loki is not Thor’s brother in the traditional Norse stories. Thor is Odin’s son, while Loki has different parents. Loki often travels with Thor, but their relationship shifts between useful companionship, irritation, and open hostility.

Is Loki evil?

Loki is not simply evil throughout the Norse stories. He sometimes rescues the gods or obtains precious objects for them, often after causing the trouble himself. His role in Baldr’s death and his opposition to the gods at Ragnarok make his later role much darker.