Faye of God of War: Unraveling the Giant Within

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Faye, Kratos’s wife and Atreus’s mother, was not half-giant. She was a full-blooded Giant (Jötunn) from Jötunheim, also known by her giant name, Laufey. This revelation is a crucial plot point in God of War (2018) and God of War Ragnarök, fundamentally altering the characters’ understanding of their past and shaping their future. Her true identity as a Jötunn, hidden for years, profoundly impacts Kratos, Atreus (Loki), and the entire Norse world.

Delving Deeper: Unmasking Faye’s True Nature

Faye’s decision to conceal her Jötunn heritage was a complex one, driven by a desire to protect her family. Knowing Kratos’s violent past and the animosity between gods and giants, she feared for Atreus’s safety. By keeping her true nature secret, she hoped to shield them from the potential dangers posed by both the Aesir and Kratos’s own history. Moreover, Faye possessed foresight, as revealed in God of War Ragnarök. She orchestrated the events of both games, knowing that her choices would lead Atreus to his destiny as Loki and ultimately bring about Ragnarök. Hiding her identity was integral to this grand plan. She knew Odin sought to understand the Jotnar and prevent Ragnarok, so she hid Atreus from him for his own safety.

The Significance of Loki

The revelation of Atreus’s true name, Loki, further emphasizes Faye’s Jötunn heritage. In Norse mythology, Loki is a pivotal figure associated with mischief, trickery, and ultimately, Ragnarök. Faye naming Atreus Loki was a deliberate act, signifying his destined role in the unfolding events. This places a significant burden on Atreus as he grapples with his identity as both a god and a giant, and with the prophecy surrounding his future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Faye and the Giants

1. Did Kratos know Faye was a giant?

   Initially, Kratos was unaware of Faye’s true nature as a Jötunn. He only learns the truth alongside Atreus during their journey to Jötunheim in God of War (2018). This revelation significantly alters Kratos’s perception of Faye and his understanding of his own place in the Norse world.

2. Why did Faye hide that she was a giant?

   Faye concealed her identity to protect both herself and Atreus. She was aware of Kratos’s troubled past and feared the repercussions of revealing their true identities to the Aesir. Her foresight also played a role, as she knew the events she set in motion required secrecy.

3. Was Faye the last giant?

   Faye was not the last giant, but rather the last giant residing in Midgard. The giants were thought to be extinct by many, yet they resided peacefully in Jotunheim.

4. How big was Faye in God of War?

   While giants are typically portrayed as towering figures, Faye’s size was relatively human. She was depicted as being between 6’1″ and 6’3″, making her only slightly shorter than Kratos, who is 6’4″. This allowed her to blend in more easily among humans and gods in Midgard.

5. How tall was Kratos as a giant?

   Kratos possessed the ability to grow to enormous sizes in the original God of War trilogy, reaching heights of approximately 500 feet. However, this ability seems to be linked to his status as a god, and he does not exhibit it in the Norse saga.

6. Was Baldur looking for Faye?

   Yes, Baldur was sent by Odin to find Faye, unaware that she had already passed away. Odin sought Faye because she was secretly a Jötunn, and he hoped to learn how to access Jötunheim and prevent Ragnarök.

7. How powerful was Faye in God of War?

   Faye was an exceptionally powerful Jötunn warrior. She wielded a weapon specifically designed to rival Mjolnir, Thor’s hammer, and was capable of challenging Thor himself in battle.

8. How many years did Kratos spend with Faye?

   Evidence suggests that Kratos and Faye were together for at least 50 years. The novelization of God of War (2018) mentions that Kratos kept the Blades of Chaos hidden under their home for five decades, implying a long-term relationship.

9. Was Faye with Odin?

   No, Faye was never involved with Odin. She was Kratos’s wife and the mother of Atreus. Freya, on the other hand, was Odin’s former wife. This is one of the differences between the mythos of the game and what happens in the Marvel movies.

10. How old was Faye in God of War?

    Faye’s exact age is never explicitly stated, but based on Mimir’s knowledge of her and the existence of the tapestry depicting her and Tyr, she was at least 109 years old, possibly even 150 or older.

11. Does Sindri forgive Atreus?

    Sindri’s relationship with Atreus is strained after the events leading to Brok’s death. While the possibility of forgiveness remains open, Sindri distances himself from Atreus and does not readily forgive him for his actions.

12. Why did Kratos say no to Odin?

    Kratos rejects Odin’s offer due to a combination of factors. He distrusts Odin based on Mimir’s warnings and his own experiences with the gods. Furthermore, Odin’s offer threatens Freya, whom Kratos cares deeply for. Kratos will never trust the Gods.

13. Why does Baldur say “I thought you’d be bigger”?

    Baldur’s comment stems from his belief that Kratos was a Jötunn. He was sent to find a giant, and upon encountering Kratos, he initially assumed he had found his target.

14. Who is the strongest god Kratos has fought?

    The debate over Kratos’s strongest opponent is ongoing. While Baldur posed a significant challenge, Zeus, the king of the Greek gods, is often considered the most powerful due to his immense strength and dominion.

15. Sindri & Faye Sindri had romantic feelings for Faye. He discusses Faye in a positive light at all times, and though he never projects jealousy towards Kratos, there is some non-verbal jealousy that’s hinted at.

The Broader Implications of Faye’s Identity

Faye’s true nature as a Jötunn has far-reaching consequences for the God of War narrative. It redefines the characters’ understanding of their past, present, and future. The relationship between Kratos and Atreus is irrevocably altered, as Atreus grapples with his dual heritage as both a god and a giant. Furthermore, Faye’s foresight and orchestration of events leading up to Ragnarök place her as a pivotal figure in the Norse saga. The fact that a character so powerful as Kratos would care for a Jötunn, shows that he has evolved as a person.

The Educational Potential of God of War

The rich storytelling and complex themes explored in God of War offer significant educational potential. The game provides opportunities to engage with Norse mythology, explore themes of identity and destiny, and analyze character motivations. Such engaging media can be used as powerful tools for learning, as explored by organizations like the Games Learning Society. By leveraging the captivating nature of video games, educators can create immersive and interactive learning experiences. To learn more, visit GamesLearningSociety.org.