Loki is a god in Norse mythology who was known for being mischievous or evil. The myths about him are not always consistent, but he has been described as being part of many different stories throughout history. He is known for his cunning and ability to deceive. In some tales, he was an ally of Odin and helped him defeat enemies; in others, he was an enemy of Odin who caused trouble for him and other gods on purpose.
Loki was born out of wedlock to two giants named Farbauti and Laufey (or Nal). His mother died shortly after giving birth to him while his father abandoned them both when they were still young children living together alone in Jotunheim.
In one story, Loki competes with another god named Thjalfi for Sif’s hand in marriage. The two run a race together, but Thjalfi wins because he had an unfair advantage: he took his stallion Sleipnir while Loki had to run on foot!
Another story tells how Loki got his nickname “Loptur” or “Hairy One” (or “Long-Backed One”) because he was so skinny that his spine showed through his skin!
