Zeus And Odin: Similarities Between Greek And Norse Mythology

Zeus and Odin have many similarities, however their differences set them apart from each other. For every difference between Greek and Norse mythology, there is as many similarities. Zeus and Odin are, or if not the most powerful gods. Each had a different way of gaining their power and becoming leaders. Both share similar traits and power among other gods in their realms.

Zeus was the youngest son of six children from Cronus and Rhea. Zeus’ five other siblings were swallowed by Cronus to ensure him from being overthrown. When Zeus was born, Gaia and Rhea tricked Cronus by switching the infant with a stone. Cronus then swallowed the stone thinking it was Zeus, however he was hidden away and raised behind the scenes. When Zeus reached manhood he forced Cronus to disgorge his siblings and then released Cronus’ siblings from Tartarus. Upon releasing the Cyclops, Zeus was given the lightning bolt as a token for their appreciation. A ten-year war was fought between the Olympians (which also included the Gigantes, Hecatonchires and the Cyclops) and Titans, which resulted in Zeus overthrowing Cronus. Zeus then later became the ruler of the Olympians and ruled on

“When Ymir eventually turned evil, Odin and his two brothers killed Ymir in order to create the world of man and gods alike. Following the creation of the world, the three brothers created human man from drift wood on the shore” (Wordpress.com). Norse gods weren’t all knowing and had limitations when it came to wisdom and intelligence. Mimir was the wisest among the gods of Aesir and Odin sought to find him. Odin went to Yggdrasil to find Mimir’s well and sacrificed his eye to drink the water and gain wisdom. Unlike Zeus, Odin cannot shape shift but is capable of commanding animals. Two ravens serve as Odin’s eyes and ears in the mortal realm while he rules in Asgard. Odin is considered the father of the gods and is referred to as the