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Though it is easy to visually differentiate the Norse from the Greeks thanks to Greek paraphernalia, there are many similarities between Norse and Greek & Roman mythologies. The Norse mythology was the beliefs of the Germanic and Viking regions of Europe, while Greek mythology was prevalent in the Mediterranean, and the Roman Empire.The Norse had much exposure to the Greeks, as well as the similar Roman mythology that they were exposed to during the height of Roman expansion.This explains some of these similarities.

Let's look at these similarities from the top, beginning with Odin, and Zeus.Both Zeus and Odin are the rulers of the gods within their systems.Both are viewed as aged but strong men, in shape and powerful.Both are associated with the sky, though Zeus more so with high places than the sky proper.That said there are differences, such as Odin's wielding a spear where as Zeus wields the intangible lightning.This also comprises a similarity between Zeus and another Norse God; Thor.

Thor lacks a direct counterpart in Greek mythology.Thor's chief power is over thunder, which is anonymous to Zeus' power over lightning.Thor controls thunder with his hammer; Mjolnir.Thor is often portrayed as quick to anger.When thrown Mjolnir would turn into lightning making Thor a direct translation of Zeus power in this respect.The modern day Thursday takes its name from Thor's day in the Germanic days of the week.

About the only comparison between Thor and Athena would be the extent to which they were praised by their respective cultures.While very similar in that regard Thor and Athena differ in most other ways.Thor was portrayed as being quick to anger, and an impulsive reactor to situations, where as Athena was more cunning and wise.In this respect Odin compares similarly to Athena as he was seen as the wise father of the god's.

Loki is a prime example of a 'trickster' god.He uses shape shifter and cleaver cunning to cause problems for the other gods, who resent him in part because he was originally a giant, which are the enemies of the Norse gods.The Greeks don't have a direct comparison per se but Hermes is certainly also a trickster god.Hermes is considered a master trickster, having even negotiated his way out of punishment for stealing cows by offering up a lyre he'd invented.

Some of the gods are obviously similar.Tyr and Ares are both gods of war.Poseidon and Aegir are both gods of the sea, have lavish undersea palaces and have both been depicted with the trident.Frigg and Hera both play the part as the feminine ruler of the gods and wives of their respective god-heads.Hermes has another counterpart amongst the Norse gods in that both he and Hermod are messengers to the gods, and depicted as quick on their winged feet.

Whether they are wearing Norse-Germanic or Greek Clothing, it's obvious these gods were more than just accidental similarities.The Norse clearly borrowed heavily from the Roman-Greek mythological traditions to update and invent new gods for their own pantheon.At the same time the Norse do clearly have unique traditions re-existing their influence by the greco-roman system, which add uniqueness to their culture.

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Q: Greek Mythology Compared To Norse Mythology?
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