Disciplines
Arts and Humanities | Other History of Art, Architecture, and Archaeology
Abstract (300 words maximum)
Mythology today serves as a vehicle for storytelling, just as it did for ancient societies. These sacred tales continue to provide role models, express the core values of their respective cultures, answer timeless questions and serve as a moral guide for each generation. Myths are rewritten and retold time and time again, evolving to encapsulate modern beliefs, but often still staying true to their core. Many myths have made their way into popular culture and the heroes in these tales of old become icons, fan-favorites, and household names; namely, Thor the God of Thunder. This study explores and compares the original descriptions of the Old Norse god Thor versus how and why these descriptions have changed throughout history; as portrayed in art and media. Information will be collected by synthesizing data from multiple sources in the form of a literature review. Findings suggest that Thor’s physical appearance and some of his main personality traits have been altered as the narrative changes. Some of the most popular and recent retellings that have contributed to modern views of Thor now include comic books, movies and video games.
Academic department under which the project should be listed
COTA - Art and Design
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Rachael Vause
Thor: An Evolution
Mythology today serves as a vehicle for storytelling, just as it did for ancient societies. These sacred tales continue to provide role models, express the core values of their respective cultures, answer timeless questions and serve as a moral guide for each generation. Myths are rewritten and retold time and time again, evolving to encapsulate modern beliefs, but often still staying true to their core. Many myths have made their way into popular culture and the heroes in these tales of old become icons, fan-favorites, and household names; namely, Thor the God of Thunder. This study explores and compares the original descriptions of the Old Norse god Thor versus how and why these descriptions have changed throughout history; as portrayed in art and media. Information will be collected by synthesizing data from multiple sources in the form of a literature review. Findings suggest that Thor’s physical appearance and some of his main personality traits have been altered as the narrative changes. Some of the most popular and recent retellings that have contributed to modern views of Thor now include comic books, movies and video games.