Trolls.

Summary: Trolls, iconic creatures from Scandinavian folklore, are known for their size, grotesque features, and connection to the wild. These beings inhabit isolated places like mountains, forests, and caves. Their appearance varies greatly with some being stone-skinned giants while others are smaller, mischievous forest dwellers. Trolls also embody the wild and untamed aspects of nature, both beautiful and dangerous. Despite their often hostile portrayal, some trolls are merely guardians of their domain.

Ancient Giants of the Wild—Guardians of Stone, Forests, and Caves.

Trolls are iconic creatures from Scandinavian folklore, known for their massive size, grotesque features, and deep connection to the wild. These beings inhabit isolated places such as mountains, forests, and caves, lurking far from human civilization. Trolls vary greatly in appearance, from towering, stone-skinned giants to smaller, mischievous forest dwellers. Though they are often portrayed as hostile or dangerous, some trolls are more neutral—concerned only with guarding their domain.

Origin & History

Trolls are among the most enduring creatures in Northern European folklore, deeply rooted in Germanic, Scandinavian, Norwegian, and Swedish traditions.

Germanic mythology often depicts trolls as supernaturalSupernatural narratives evoke forces beyond nature More giants associated with chaos and the wild forces of nature. In contrast, Norwegian and Swedish folklore offers a broader range, from mountain-dwelling giants to mischievous forest spirits and magical beings with human-like traits. Despite regional variations, trolls consistently embody the wild and untamed aspects of nature—both beautiful and dangerous.

The earliest accounts of trolls can be traced to Norse mythology, where they were depicted as beings of immense strength and size, akin to the jötunn (giants). They were closely associated with the chaos of nature, representing the unpredictable and often dangerous aspects of the natural world.

Later Scandinavian folklore expanded on their mythology, introducing different types of trolls with distinct behaviors and appearances. Some stories portray trolls as dim-witted brutes, while others depict them as cunning and malevolent tricksters. Landmarks such as large boulders and stone formations were often explained as petrified trolls caught by sunlight.

By the Middle Ages, trolls had become cautionary figures in tales, warning people about the dangers of wandering into the wilderness alone.

Troll – Germanic Roots

In Germanic mythology, trolls are often linked to the jötunn or giants—beings of immense strength and power who dwell in the wild, untamed parts of the world. These early Germanic trolls were viewed as primal forces of nature—chaotic and god-like—with little resemblance to the more folkloric, human-like trolls that appear later in Scandinavian traditions.

Over time, the myth evolved, shifting from these elemental beings to creatures with more earthly traits, resembling the spirits and tricksters of later folklore. They symbolize chaos and nature’s raw, uncontrollable forces, often clashing with gods and humans alike. These early depictions of trolls present them as more supernaturalSupernatural narratives evoke forces beyond nature More and god-like than their later folkloric counterparts. In some tales, they possess magical abilities, such as shapeshifting and weather control, and are closely connected to the mountains and the earth.

Trolls – Norwegian Folklore

In Norwegian folklore, trolls are closely associated with the rugged, mountainous landscape. Stories of mountain trolls are particularly prominent, describing them as colossal creatures with rough, stone-like skin that blends seamlessly with the cliffs and forests.

One well-known legend tells of the troll Ryfylke Giant, who once roamed the mountains of western Norway. Caught by the rising sun while trying to cross a fjord, he was turned into stone, leaving behind a towering rock formation still standing today, known as Preikestolen (“Pulpit Rock”).

Mountain trolls are known for their reclusive nature, hiding from humans and sunlight, which turns them to stone. Norwegian trolls are also believed to be slow-witted and hostile toward humans, especially those who desecrate their lands or fail to observe traditional rituals.

Landmarks like peculiar rock formations and massive boulders are often said to be petrified trolls. The famous Norwegian fairy tale “The Three Billy Goats Gruff” features a bridge troll—a smaller, more cunning type of troll that hides beneath bridges and demands payment or answers to riddles from those wishing to cross.

Trolls – Swedish Traditions

In Swedish folklore, trolls exhibit a diverse range of forms. While many resemble the large, brutish trolls of Norway, others are more human-like, residing deep in forests or beneath hills. These forest trolls are known for being mischievous rather than overtly malevolent. They are often described as protectors of the natural world, punishing those who harm animals or cut down sacred trees.

Swedish tales also introduce the concept of troll women—mysterious and often beautiful figures who can seduce or enchant humans. Much like sirens in Greek mythology or fairies in Celtic folklore, these troll women possess an alluring and dangerous charm. They are said to lure men into the woods with promises of love and beauty, only to trap them in an enchanted realm where time stands still. Unlike sirens, who are associated with the sea, troll women are creatures of the forest, blending the seductive qualities of fairies with the earthy, wild nature of trolls. These trolls are said to lure men into the woods, only to keep them captive for years or even centuries.

Scandinavian Folklore at Large

Throughout Scandinavia, trolls symbolize a link to the ancient world—a realm filled with spirits, magic, and forgotten traditions. They are not merely brutish monsters but complex beings with a deep connection to nature.

In some regions, trolls are depicted as protective spirits of the land, embodying the soul of the wilderness. In other tales, they are malicious tricksters who curse or abduct those who fail to respect the old ways. Despite these differences, certain themes remain consistent:

• Size and Strength: Trolls are almost always described as larger and stronger than humans.
• Vulnerability to Sunlight: A defining characteristic of trolls is their aversion to sunlight. Many stories describe how trolls turn to stone when exposed to daylight.
• Association with Nature: Trolls are deeply connected to the landscape, often blending into the mountains, forests, and hills they inhabit. They protect wild places and sacred sites.
• Mistrust of Humans: Trolls rarely interact positively with humans. They are often portrayed as jealous, greedy, or vengeful creatures who punish those who cross their paths.

Cultural Evolution

Over time, the depiction of trolls has evolved. With the spread of Christianity in Scandinavia, trolls became more closely associated with darkness and evil, often portrayed as enemies of the Church.

This shift reflects the broader cultural and religious transformation of the era, as pagan beliefs and nature spirits were demonized to align with Christian teachings, turning once-neutral or protective beings into symbols of chaos and sin.

In medieval Christian texts, trolls were described as demonic beings who hurled boulders at churches and terrorized the righteous. During the Romantic period, trolls experienced a revival in literature and art, taking on a more whimsical and even sympathetic role. Writers like Peter Christen Asbjørnsen and Jørgen Moe collected Norwegian folktales, many featuring trolls as complex characters—both frightening and tragic.

Today, trolls continue to inspire modern fantasy literature, films, and games. While their forms have expanded and adapted to new genres, their core identity—as embodiments of the ancient, untamed world—remains unchanged.

Troll Physical Description

Trolls’ appearance can range from grotesque and monstrous to almost human-like. Most share common traits such as massive size, long noses, tangled hair, and rocky or moss-covered skin. Here are the most well-known troll types:

Mountain Trolls

Hill Trolls

Forest Trolls

Cave Trolls

Sea Trolls

Powers & Abilities

• Supernatural Strength: Trolls possess immense physical power, able to move boulders and uproot trees with ease.
• Stone Skin: Many trolls have near-invulnerable, rock-like skin that provides protection from most weapons.
• Night Vision: Trolls are adapted to darkness, able to see clearly in pitch-black environments.
• Earth Manipulation: Some trolls can manipulate stone and soil, creating landslides or reshaping terrain.
• Regeneration: In certain stories, trolls possess rapid healing abilities unless harmed by fire or sunlight.
• Shapeshifting (Rare): A few tales speak of trolls disguising themselves as humans or animals.

Cultural Significance

Trolls are deeply embedded in Scandinavian culture, symbolizing nature’s wild and untamed aspects. They serve as cautionary figures in stories meant to warn travelers and children about the dangers of straying into uncharted wilderness. Many trolls are depicted as guardians of sacred places or hidden treasures, protecting ancient forests, caves, and mountains.

In the Christian era, trolls were often portrayed as enemies of the Church. They were said to hurl boulders at church towers and steal livestock or children. This transformation reflects the conflict between ancient pagan beliefs and the spread of Christianity.

Modern Appearances (Pop Culture, Urban Legends, etc.)

Trolls have become staples of fantasy literature, video games, and films. Their portrayal ranges from terrifying monsters to comic relief:

• The Hobbit (J.R.R. Tolkien): Stone trolls appear in a memorable scene where they are turned to stone by sunlight.
• Harry Potter (J.K. Rowling): Trolls are depicted as dim-witted, brutish creatures in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
• Trollhunter (2010): A Norwegian film that presents trolls as real, colossal creatures hidden in the wilderness.
• Dungeons & Dragons: Trolls are a common enemy, known for their regeneration abilities.
• World of Warcraft: Features a race of jungle-dwelling trolls with distinct cultures and history.

Related Creatures

• Jötunn (Norse Giants)
• Ogres
• Goblins
• Huldra (Forest Spirits)
• Kelpies (Water Spirits)

References & Citations

1. Asbjørnsen, P. C. & Moe, J. (1841). Norwegian Folktales.
2. Simek, R. (2007). Dictionary of Northern Mythology.
3. Lindow, J. (2001). Norse Mythology: A Guide to the Gods, Heroes, Rituals, and Beliefs.
4. Kvideland, R. & Sehmsdorf, H. K. (1988). Scandinavian Folk Belief and Legend.