Daily Curiosity

Norse Mythology · Question

What animals pull Thor's chariot?

Answer

Goats

The story behind the answer

Goats is correct: In Norse myth, Thor’s chariot is pulled by two enchanted goats, Tanngrisnir and Tanngnjóstr—whose names mean Tooth-Gnasher and Tooth-Grinder. They’re described in the Prose Edda, and no other animals are linked to his chariot; wolves are Odin’s (Geri and Freki), and ravens—not eagles—are his birds.

A memorable twist: Thor can slaughter and eat his goats for supper, then resurrect them with Mjölnir the next day—as long as their bones remain unbroken. This cycle of feasting and renewal fits the rough, practical world of the Norse. Memory tip: Think “Thor’s Thunderous Tooth-Grinding Goats”—the T-sounds (Thor, Thunder, Teeth) go together, and the clatter of hooves and gnashing teeth echoes the rumble of thunder.

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