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Fenrir

Fenrir is a monstrous wolf in Norse mythology, described in the Eddic tradition as a son of Loki and the giantess Angrboða.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Fenrir is a monstrous wolf in Norse mythology, described in the Eddic tradition as a son of Loki and the giantess Angrboða. He is most famous for being foretold to break free at Ragnarök, kill Odin, and then be slain by Odin’s son Víðarr. Fenrir appears in comparative mythology, literature, fantasy, and popular culture studied by Canadian readers, especially through works drawing on Norse myths in comics, novels, films, and games.

Mythological role

Fenrir is a central figure in Norse cosmology and apocalyptic myth. His fate is tied to Ragnarök, where he is one of the destructive forces that bring about the death of Odin.

Family and origin

Fenrir is widely described as the offspring of Loki and the giantess Angrboða. He is also presented as the brother of Jörmungandr and Hel.

Binding and prophecy

Because the gods feared Fenrir’s strength, they bound him in chains, including the magical fetter Gleipnir in later tellings. The story emphasizes prophecy, distrust, and the inevitability of fate in Norse myth.

Ragnarök

During Ragnarök, Fenrir breaks free from his restraints, kills Odin, and is then killed by Víðarr, Odin’s son. This sequence is one of the best-known episodes in Norse eschatology.

Key facts

  • Fenrir is a giant wolf in Norse mythology, son of Loki and Angrboða.
  • He is foretold to break free at Ragnarök, kill Odin, and be slain by Víðarr.
  • The gods bound Fenrir due to his growing power and the danger he posed.
  • Alternate names include Fenrisúlfr, Vánagandr, and Hróðvitnir.
  • Fenrir is also identified as the father of the wolves Sköll and Hati Hróðvitnisson.
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Canadian context

Fenrir appears in comparative mythology, literature, fantasy, and popular culture studied by Canadian readers, especially through works drawing on Norse myths in comics, novels, films, and games.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Fenrir?
Fenrir is a giant wolf in Norse mythology, known for his role in the destruction associated with Ragnarök.
Who are Fenrir’s parents?
He is commonly identified as the son of Loki and the giantess Angrboða.
What happens to Fenrir at Ragnarök?
Fenrir is foretold to break free, kill Odin, and then be killed by Odin’s son Víðarr.
Why was Fenrir bound?
The gods feared his growing strength and the destructive fate predicted for him, so they bound him with chains in the myth.
Does Fenrir have other names?
Yes. Sources list names including Fenrisúlfr, Vánagandr, and Hróðvitnir.
Is Fenrir related to Sköll and Hati?
Yes. Some sources identify Fenrir as the father of the wolves Sköll and Hati Hróðvitnisson.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fenrir
    Supports: Fenrir’s role in Ragnarök and his killing of Odin.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/Fenrir
    Supports: Fenrir as a monstrous wolf; son of Loki and Angrboða; role in Ragnarök.
  3. World History Encyclopedia — https://www.worldhistory.org/Fenrir/
    Supports: Fenrir’s identity, family, alternative names, and fate at Ragnarök.
  4. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Myths/Featured_creature/3
    Supports: Alternative names, parentage, siblings, and role in Ragnarök.
  5. Norse Mythology for Smart People — https://www.norse-mythology.org/tales/the-binding-of-fenrir/
    Supports: The binding of Fenrir and the mythic tradition around his restraint.