Thor is a god from Norse mythology. He wields a magical hammer that only he is able to lift from the ground. He is often associated with thunder, lightning, storms, oak trees, strength, the protection of mankind, healing and fertility.
(Thor’s Battle Against the Jotnar (1872) by Marten Eskil Winge)
In Germanic mythology and paganism he was known in old English as Thor, and is a prominantly mentioned god in the Viking Age. Thor is the origin of the name for the day of the week Thursday, coming from Thorsday (old english Thunresdaeg)
In Norse mythology, largely recorded in inceland many tales are told of thor. In these tales, Thor is married to the godess Sif, is lovers of the Jotunn Jarnsaxa and is generally described as fierce-eyed, red-haired and bearded. Thor is described as the son of the God Odin, and bears at least fourteen names.
Thor wields the mountain-crushing hammer, Mjolnir, wears the belt Megingjoro and the iron gloves Jarngreipr. Of the many foes thor has, the one most protrayed is the great snake Jormungander. Their deaths during the time of Ragnarok are recorded though Norse mythology.
(a traditionally inspired Thor illustration)
Thor in more modern interpretations was taken up by Mavel comics as a godlike character from another planet. He and his brother Loki became very popular in modern society and have had many comics and movies all inspired by Mavels re-imagination of this well known character.
(Original comic illustration of Thor by Marvel comics)
This character is much more youth friendly and has been made more commercially attractive for audiences of youths. His beard is rarely shown in the comic, probably to do with hollywood style ideas of attractiveness as well as making expression easier to read in the illustrations. He however keeps the iconic character pieces like his flowing hair, helmet, Hammer, and cape. He is shown to be very physically strong, large muscles and a strong jaw, making him instantly look godlike and over powered.
(Thor in the latest movie interpretation of the comic book character)
The cape and hammer here are particularly noticeable, but his costume here becomes much more modern looking and conventionally something that looks attractive. he looks very strong but has more of a kind face than the original content, again, leading to his popularity with younger audiences.
jaredkennedy 