T is for Troll
Hello!
Trolls are one of the most recognizable creatures in fantasy, often depicted as large, brutish, and fearsome beings that inhabit dark forests, rocky caves, or high mountain peaks. Known for their strength and intimidating presence, trolls are often portrayed as simple-minded monsters. But they can also be complex characters, ranging from terrifying foes to tragic figures.
Trolls originate from Norse and Scandinavian mythology, where they were described as massive, humanoid beings with ties to nature and the wilderness. In these legends, trolls were often associated with specific landmarks, such as mountains, boulders, or caves, and were believed to turn to stone when exposed to sunlight—a detail that persists in many modern stories.
Trolls in folklore were not just physical threats; they were often seen as malevolent forces that represented the dangers of the untamed wild. They were known to harass travellers, steal livestock, and even abduct humans. However, some stories painted trolls as solitary creatures who avoided human interaction unless provoked.
In modern fantasy, trolls take on a variety of forms. They are still frequently depicted as hulking, grotesque creatures with thick, leathery skin, enormous strength, and a penchant for violence. Some versions still portray them as dim-witted monsters who serve as cannon fodder for adventurers, while others present trolls as cunning predators with a taste for human flesh. In fact, in Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, trolls are brutal creatures used by dark forces in battle, while in Harry Potter, they appear as slow and stupid, but dangerously strong beings. Perhaps, the idea of trolls turning to stone in sunlight may hold symbolic meaning, representing ignorance or evil that cannot survive in the light of truth or understanding.
Despite their monstrous reputation, some modern interpretations show trolls in a different light, portraying them as misunderstood or even sympathetic creatures.
Trolls remain a staple of fantasy storytelling, capturing the imagination with their massive size, raw power, and deep ties to the natural world. Whether portrayed as monstrous villains or misunderstood outcasts, trolls remind us of the challenges and dangers that lurk in the wilderness—and the need to balance strength with intelligence when facing them. With their enduring presence in myth and media, trolls continue to be powerful and versatile figures in the realms of fantasy.
References: https://fantasy-bestiary.fandom.com/wiki/Troll_(Mythology) ; https://www.visitnorway.com/things-to-do/art-culture/the-mythical-norwegian-trolls/; https://mythus.fandom.com/wiki/Troll
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If you love good fun and heart warming adventure sprinkled with something a little bit magical then this is the book for you.
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An alternate historical account of the resilience of mankind
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Join us for the adventure of our lifetimes. This is the Dawn of the Red Tomorrow.
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Colours of Fantasy (FREE DOWNLOAD)
Not enough time to read, but love fantasy?
Colours of Fantasy is an anthology of short stories that range from magical realism to sci-fi fantasy. They are short enough to be easily read while commuting or during a lunch break. Read about paintings that are truer than true-to-life, or the heart-wrenching decision Poseidon’s human son-in-law has to take, or perhaps you’ll prefer a glimpse of life after an apocalypse, or a story about a space pirate with an uncomfortable past.
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Till next time! Wishing you a great two weeks with a good book!
Caroline
P.S. If you’ve read any of my novels, I would really, REALLY appreciate a review for the book/s, even if it’s not a great one! Ratings are also gratefully received. It really helps other fans of fantasy to decide whether to pick up the book or not.
