Loki

Loki was the most unpredictable god in Norse mythology. He was a shapeshifter who could turn into any animal or person. Sometimes he helped the gods, and sometimes he caused big problems. His tricks ranged from funny pranks to serious trouble.

The Trickster

Loki loved playing tricks on the other gods. He once cut off the goddess Sif's beautiful golden hair while she slept. To make up for it, he got dwarves to make her new hair out of real gold. Many of the gods' best treasures came from Loki's tricks going wrong.

Loki's Strange Family

Loki had some very unusual children. His son Fenrir was a giant wolf. His daughter Hel ruled the land of the dead. Another child was Jormungandr, the serpent that wrapped around the whole world. The gods feared Loki's children because of a prophecy.

Fun Facts

• Loki once turned into a horse and gave birth to Sleipnir, Odin's eight-legged horse.
• He helped the gods get Thor's hammer back by dressing Thor up as a bride.
• Loki could transform into a salmon, a fly, and even an old woman.

Did You Know?

Loki was not actually a god by birth. He was a giant who became Odin's blood brother. The other gods kept him around because he was clever, even though he often caused trouble!