Sköll facts for kids
Sköll is a giant wolf from Norse mythology. He is famous for chasing the sun (Sól) across the sky every single day! His name means "treachery" or "mockery" in Old Norse. Sköll is not alone in his chase; he has a brother named Hati who chases the moon (Máni).
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Who is Sköll?
Sköll is a powerful wolf in the old stories of the Norse people. These stories come from countries like Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Iceland, long, long ago. In these myths, Sköll's main job is to chase the sun goddess, Sól, through the sky. He tries to catch and eat her, which is why the sun keeps moving!
Sköll's Family
Sköll is often mentioned with his brother, Hati. While Sköll chases the sun, Hati chases the moon. Some stories say that Sköll and Hati are the sons of another famous wolf, Fenrir. Fenrir is a giant and fearsome wolf, and his children, Sköll and Hati, are just as powerful. Their mother is sometimes said to be a giantess from a forest called Járnviðr, or "Ironwood."
The Chase in the Sky
Every day, Sköll races across the sky, trying to catch the sun. The sun, Sól, rides in a chariot pulled by two horses. Sköll is always right behind her, making sure she keeps moving. If he ever caught her, the world would be plunged into darkness! This chase explains why the sun moves from morning until night.
Ragnarök: The End of the Chase
In Norse mythology, there is a prophecy about a great event called Ragnarök. Ragnarök is like the end of the world for the gods and the universe. During Ragnarök, many important events are supposed to happen. It is said that at this time, Sköll will finally succeed in catching and eating the sun. His brother Hati will also catch and eat the moon. This will cause the sky to go dark, and new stars will appear. After this, the world will be reborn.
Images for kids
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Far away and long ago by Willy Pogany, 1920
See also
In Spanish: Sköll para niños
