Giants, also known as Jotnar in Old Norse, are a type of supernatural being that appear in the mythology and folklore of many Germanic cultures, including Norse, German, and Anglo-Saxon. In Germanic mythology, giants are often associated with the natural world, and are said to possess immense strength and power.
In Norse mythology, giants are divided into two groups: the frost giants (rimthursar) and the fire giants (eldjotnar). The frost giants are associated with the cold and the earth, and are often depicted as malevolent beings who seek to destroy the world. The fire giants, on the other hand, are associated with fire and are sometimes depicted as skilled craftsmen and metalworkers.
Giants are often portrayed as enemies of the gods and heroes in Germanic mythology, and are frequently involved in battles and conflicts with them. One of the most famous accounts in Norse mythology is Jotunheimr, the land of the giants, which is said to be located in the mountains of the north.
Giants are sometimes depicted in Germanic folklore as being very tall and strong, with supernatural abilities such as the power to change their shape or size. In some stories, they are said to be helpful beings who assist humans with their work or protect them from harm, while in other stories they are depicted as malevolent and dangerous creatures.
In modern popular culture, giants have become a popular element of fantasy and mythology, and are often depicted as powerful and menacing creatures with immense strength and size. Their depiction in popular culture often draws heavily from their appearances in Germanic mythology and folklore.