What is the origin of the name Thor?
The name Thor emerges from the Proto-Germanic root Þunraz, meaning thunder. This ancient word evolved into various forms across Germanic dialects such as Old Norse Þórr and Old English Thunor.
Questions about Thor
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When did Roman historians first record references to Thor?
Roman historians first recorded references to Thor during the late first century when Tacitus wrote about the Suebi people in his work Germania. He identified Thor with Hercules through a process known as interpretatio germanica.
How many pendants representing Thor's hammer have been unearthed across Nordic countries?
Around 1000 pendants representing Thor's hammer have been unearthed across Nordic countries, England, northern Germany, Baltic states, and Russia. Most feature simple iron or silver designs while about 100 display more advanced ornaments.
Where are numerous place names containing the Old Norse name Þórr located?
Numerous place names in Scandinavia contain the Old Norse name Þórr with cultic significance appearing strongest where elements like -hofs or -lundr occur. Examples include Thorsø in Denmark and Thorshavn on the Faroe Islands.
Who created the modern comic book version of Thor?
American comic book artist Jack Kirby created a feature in Journey Into Mystery in 1962 alongside editor Stan Lee. They portrayed him as clean-shaven blonde instead of red-haired bearded before Marvel Comics retitled the series Thor.