Does Gungnir Come Back? Unraveling the Fate of Odin’s Legendary Spear
The simple answer to whether Gungnir, the legendary spear of Odin, comes back is complex and depends on which universe we’re discussing. In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Gungnir is most likely destroyed along with Asgard, as depicted in Thor: Ragnarok. However, in Norse mythology and the broader God of War universe, there’s more nuance to its fate. This article will delve into the complex history and current status of Gungnir, exploring its appearance across different media and answering common questions about this powerful weapon.
Gungnir in the MCU: A History of Power and Loss
In the MCU, Gungnir is primarily associated with Odin, the Allfather. It serves as a symbol of his power and authority. The spear’s first major appearance is during the flashback sequences in Thor, showing Odin wielding it in battle. Later, we see Loki using it, and then Thor briefly during the battle with Hela in Thor: Ragnarok. However, this is the last time we see it wielded.
The Destruction of Asgard
The last known time Gungnir was used was by Thor during his fight with Hela. After being disarmed, the spear is not mentioned or seen again, and due to the destruction of Asgard by Surtur, it’s highly probable that Gungnir was destroyed along with the rest of the realm. The MCU’s tendency towards finality suggests that Gungnir’s destruction is a definitive end for this iteration of the weapon, although the MCU always has room for surprises.
Gungnir in Norse Mythology and God of War
In Norse mythology, Gungnir is a significant symbol of Odin’s power, craftsmanship, and ultimate destiny. According to the Prose Edda, Gungnir was crafted by the dwarves, the Sons of Ivaldi, under the direction of the master smith Dvalin. The spear is described as a magical and incredibly potent weapon.
Gungnir’s Role in Ragnarök
Mythology paints a darker picture for Gungnir’s fate. It is said that Odin will wield Gungnir as he leads the Einherjar into the final battle of Ragnarök, and ultimately, he uses the spear to attack the wolf Fenrir. In the God of War series, particularly God of War Ragnarök, Gungnir is a pivotal element. It is wielded by Odin, who is revealed to have been impersonating Tyr for much of the game. Odin notably uses Gungnir to stab Thor and engages in battles with Kratos, Atreus and Freya. Ultimately, it is destroyed with the realm after Odin’s defeat. This aligns more with mythological accounts, where Gungnir is a weapon of destruction in the end days. Thus, in both Norse mythology and the God of War universe, Gungnir’s end is tied to the destruction of Asgard and the death of Odin, meaning that it also does not appear to return.
No Return in Current Lore
Considering the current narratives and the destruction associated with Ragnarök in both mythological and God of War interpretations, the conclusion is that, in these established worlds, Gungnir does not return. The spear’s destruction seems to be a symbolic closing of a chapter, representing the end of the old ways and the beginning of something new.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where is Gungnir now in the MCU?
In the MCU, Gungnir is most likely destroyed along with Asgard. It was last seen during the battle with Hela in Thor: Ragnarok, after which the realm was obliterated by Surtur.
2. What happened to Gungnir in God of War Ragnarök?
In God of War Ragnarök, Gungnir is wielded by Odin during various battles, most notably against Kratos, Atreus and Freya. It is ultimately destroyed along with Asgard after Odin’s defeat.
3. Why didn’t Hela use Gungnir?
It’s speculated that Odin may have enchanted Gungnir to prevent Hela from using it. This would be in line with his character, who clearly understood the danger and ambition of his daughter. Only four characters have wielded Gungnir, suggesting intentional design and restriction of its power.
4. Who made Gungnir?
Gungnir was forged by the dwarf brothers, the Sons of Ivaldi, under the mastery of the blacksmith dwarf Dvalin, as part of a scheme by Loki to make amends for cutting Sif’s hair in Norse mythology.
5. What is the significance of Gungnir?
Gungnir is a symbol of Odin’s power and authority, representing his role as the Allfather. It’s a spear of immense strength and magical properties, tied to the very fate of Asgard.
6. How does Gungnir compare to Mjolnir?
While Mjolnir is now presented as a training weapon for Thor, Gungnir is considered a king’s weapon, similar to Stormbreaker. This puts Gungnir on a more powerful tier than Mjolnir.
7. Can Thor wield Gungnir?
Yes, Thor did wield Gungnir briefly during the battle with Hela in Thor: Ragnarok. This suggests that while Odin may have a stronger bond with it, Thor, being a prince of Asgard, is capable of wielding it.
8. Why was Hela released when Odin died?
Odin’s power over Hela waned upon his death, releasing her from her imprisonment. She saw herself as the rightful heir to the throne, leading her to claim Asgard for herself.
9. Why did Odin hang himself?
In Norse mythology, Odin hung himself on Yggdrasil for nine days and nights as a symbolic self-sacrifice. This act was intended to gain knowledge of other worlds and the power of runes.
10. Is Gungnir destroyed?
In the MCU, Gungnir was likely destroyed with the rest of Asgard. In the God of War game series and mythology, it is destroyed after Odin’s death and the destruction of Asgard. Therefore, in all current lore, Gungnir is ultimately destroyed.
11. What is stronger, Gungnir or Stormbreaker?
Both weapons are crafted from Uru metal and are considered king’s weapons. In terms of pure power, they are likely comparable. However, their effectiveness also relies on the wielder’s strength and skill.
12. Can Odin lift Thor’s hammer?
In Marvel comics and the MCU, Odin has demonstrated the ability to lift Mjolnir, especially when he seeks to use it for the good of Asgard. This is not a consistent aspect across all storylines though.
13. What was Gungnir used for by Odin?
Gungnir was used as a symbol of Odin’s authority, as a weapon in battle, and potentially as a focus for some of his magical abilities.
14. Why is Mjolnir’s handle so short?
According to mythology, Loki interfered with the forging of Mjolnir by disguising himself as a fly, causing Sindri to make the handle shorter than intended.
15. Is Thor stronger than Odin?
In Marvel, while Odin is depicted as extremely powerful, Thor has more raw strength than even Odin according to the Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe.
Conclusion
While Gungnir is a powerful and iconic weapon, its return seems unlikely. In the MCU, it’s presumably lost in the destruction of Asgard. In both Norse mythology and the God of War series, the spear’s destruction is tied to the fall of Asgard and Odin’s defeat. For now, the story of Gungnir appears to have concluded, a powerful and complex symbol that met a fiery and definitive end. While its future remains uncertain, the legacy of this legendary spear will continue to captivate audiences for years to come.